Senior Materials & Processes Engineer – Aerospace Lab

Archer; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 152,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Archer, based in San Jose, California, seeks a Materials and Process Engineer to lead material qualification efforts supporting FAA certification for powertrain and composite structures of an all-electric eVTOL aircraft. You will manage internal and external testing, create FAA-conformed qualification plans, and ensure materials and processes meet performance and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with mechanical testing equipment, adhesive bonding evaluations, and

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in aerospace materials and process engineering.
• Hands-on experience operating mechanical test equipment.
• Knowledge of FAA material qualification requirements under 14 CFR Part 23.
• Familiarity with composite manufacturing and resin systems (epoxy, polyurethane).
• Experience with adhesive bonding evaluations and material qualification programs.

Responsibilities

• Set up and manage an internal materials test lab, including mechanical test equipment and procedures.
• Operate and maintain mechanical testing systems for tension, compression, shear, fatigue, and adhesive bonding evaluations.
• Develop and oversee FAA-conformed material qualification programs, executed both in-house and at external laboratories.
• Author and maintain material and process specifications, test plans, qualification procedures, and certification documentation.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and certification teams to ensure materials and processes meet performance and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze test data, support failure investigations, and implement corrective actions.
• Provide technical guidance on materials selection and process development for powertrain systems and composite structures.
• Interface with FAA, DERs, and other regulatory bodies to support certification and conformity activities.

Skills

Materials science

Aerospace materials

Mechanical testing

Adhesive bonding testing

Composite materials testing

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's preferred

Job description

Archer, based in San Jose, California, seeks a Materials and Process Engineer to lead material qualification efforts supporting FAA certification for powertrain and composite structures of an all-electric eVTOL aircraft. You will manage internal and external testing, create FAA-conformed qualification plans, and ensure materials and processes meet performance and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with mechanical testing equipment, adhesive bonding evaluations, and