Structures Architect — Conceptual Design
About the role
The Structures Architect at Archer will develop the conceptual-level airframe architecture for a next-generation eVTOL, focusing on the fuselage, wing, tail, and nacelle structures. This includes sizing major components like spars, frames, longerons, skins, and fittings, predicting aeroelastic behavior, and collaborating with the vehicle, powertrain, and aero architects.
Responsibilities
- Develop conceptual-level airframe architecture and parametric structural models for the fuselage, wing, tail, and nacelle structure.
- Size major structural components using classical analytical methods, cross-sectional analysis tools, and conceptual FEM.
- Predict and assess aeroelastic behavior at the conceptual level, including flutter and whirl-flutter margins and structural modal characteristics.
- Partner with the Vehicle Architect on loads and outer mold line (OML) definition, identifying governing sizing cases for each major structural element.
- Evaluate and trade alternative structural layouts across candidate configurations for weight, manufacturability, and cost.
- Lead material selection trades for major structural elements, considering composite, metallic, and hybrid construction.
- Assess packaging and volume allocation across the airframe, coordinating with the powertrain and vehicle architects.
- Generate structural weight estimates for candidate configurations and track weight margins through the concept phase.
Requirements
- Aircraft structural design background at the conceptual or preliminary design level, with rotorcraft, tiltrotor, or eVTOL experience preferred.
- Strong experience with aeroelastic analysis, including flutter and whirl-flutter prediction, and structural modal analysis.
- Experience with structural sizing methods, such as classical beam/panel analysis, weight-estimation relationships, and cross-sectional analysis tools like sectionproperties.
- Experience with conceptual/preliminary structural and aeroelastic sizing tools like ASWING, NeoCASS, OpenAeroStruct, pyNastran, SUAVE, or similar.
- Working knowledge of composite and metallic airframe construction and their trade-offs.
- Strong Python programming experience for structural sizing and analysis automation.
- Experience generating parametric geometry for aircraft structure, either via commercial parametric CAD or code-based parametric geometry tools.
- Understanding of systems integration and packaging constraints in volume-constrained aircraft.
- Experience with certification-driven structural requirements for civil aircraft, such as crashworthiness, redundancy, and occupant protection (plus).
Qualifications
At Archer, we value diverse perspectives and experiences. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We strive to attract, retain, and motivate talented individuals who bring the skills and leadership necessary to support our growth.
Skills
Our ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in aircraft structural design, aeroelastic analysis, and structural sizing methods. They are proficient in Python programming and have experience with various structural and aeroelastic sizing tools. Additionally, they have a deep understanding of composite and metallic airframe construction and can effectively manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders.
Benefits
At Archer, we offer a competitive compensation package, including a base pay range of $152,800 - $227,600, with actual compensation determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Pay
$152,800 - $227,600
Schedule
N/A