Lead Autonomous Behaviors & Mission Algorithms Engineer

AlleyCorp; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 138,200 - 190,100; Full time

Job summary

Archer in San Jose seeks a Lead Special Programs Engineer focused on advanced behaviors and algorithms for prototype vehicles. You will design, validate, and own mission-level behaviors, ensuring rapid prototyping from concept to flight-test support within a tight, cross-functional team.

Required experience includes autonomous system behavior validation, scenario-based testing, and full lifecycle development in defense-forward programs. U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related field (advanced degree a plus).
• Experience validating mission-level behaviors, tactics, or decision logic for autonomous aerospace/defense systems.
• Familiar with behavior modeling, simulation environments, and scenario-based validation approaches.
• Full development lifecycle experience from concept to prototype in fast-paced, resource-constrained environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and validation of advanced mission behaviors and tactics for prototype vehicles.
• Support rapid prototyping end-to-end from concept behaviors and simulation through hardware-in-the-loop test.
• Own the advanced behaviors discipline within Special Programs and set standards and validation methods.
• Assess technical feasibility of new opportunities and required approaches.
• Collaborate with program leads and Archer teams to align approaches with timelines.
• Produce documentation, trade studies, and analyses for reviews and decisions.

Skills

Behavioral modeling

Mission-level behaviors

Autonomous aerospace systems

Full development lifecycle

Security clearance readiness

U.S. Person per ITAR

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Computer Science, Robotics (or related field)

Job description

Archer in San Jose seeks a Lead Special Programs Engineer focused on advanced behaviors and algorithms for prototype vehicles. You will design, validate, and own mission-level behaviors, ensuring rapid prototyping from concept to flight-test support within a tight, cross-functional team.

Required experience includes autonomous system behavior validation, scenario-based testing, and full lifecycle development in defense-forward programs. U.S.