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Mechanical Development Engineer, Electric Engine

San Jose, California, United States

Archer is an aerospace company based in San Jose, California building an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft with a mission to advance the benefits of sustainable air mobility. We are designing, manufacturing, and operating an all-electric aircraft that can carry four passengers while producing minimal noise.

Our sights are set high and our problems are hard, and we believe that diversity in the workplace is what makes us smarter, drives better insights, and will ultimately lift us all to success. We are dedicated to cultivating an equitable and inclusive environment that embraces our differences, and supports and celebrates all of our team members.

About the Role:

As a Development Engineer on our Electric Engine team, you'll be at the forefront of solving complex challenges that directly impact the performance, safety, and evolution of Archer's cutting-edge electric aviation technology. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with strategic problem-solving to ensure our electric propulsion systems meet the highest standards of reliability and performance.

What You'll Do:

  • Lead Electric Engine Diagnostics & Analysis
    • Conduct comprehensive Electric Engine teardowns and root cause investigations
    • Serve as the primary technical expert for triaging and resolving critical issues during the design/development cycle
    • Make decisive judgments to prioritize mission-critical concerns that impact product safety and performance
  • Develop Advanced Systems & Procedures
    • Create detailed Electric Engine teardown protocols and documentation.
    • Develop real-time health monitoring systems .
    • Establish Electric Engine end-of-line test specifications that ensure quality and reliability.
  • Drive Engineering Excellence
    • Own field failure analysis and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence
    • Develop and execute Electric Engine DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) and DVP&R (Design Verification Plan & Report)
    • Validate Electric Engine requirements throughout development cycles
    • Lead powertrain system optimization studies to enhance performance and efficiency
  • Collaborate Across Functions
    • Partner daily with Electric Engine design, Motor, Rotor, Geartrain and test teams
    • Provide expert design guidance and mentorship to engineering teams
    • Lead by example, actively designing alongside the team while providing technical oversight

What You Need:

  • Education & Experience
    • Master's Degree in mechanical/electrical engineering, physics, or related field
    • Minimum of 5 years of hands-on Electric Engine experience
    • Demonstrated expertise in Electric Engine teardowns, diagnostics, and troubleshooting
  • Technical Expertise
    • Strong multidisciplinary engineering knowledge across mechanical, thermal, fluid, and electrical systems
    • Proficiency in root cause analysis and problem-solving methodologies (8D, 5 whys, etc.)
    • Advanced data analysis, modeling, and optimization skills (MATLAB preferred)
  • Leadership & Communication
    • Proven ability to organize and lead cross-functional technical initiatives
    • Excellent presentation and communication skills to influence decision-making
    • Capacity to translate complex technical concepts for diverse audiences
  • Additional Requirements
    • Availability for domestic travel as needed
    • Demonstrated commitment to safety and quality in engineering practices

Bonus Qualifications:

  • Aerospace and/or automotive development experience
  • Experience designing fixtures, procuring parts, and assembling test setups
  • Self-motivated with exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
  • Track record of innovation and continuous improvement in engineering systems

At Archer we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our business. We drive a pay-for-performance culture and reward performance that supports the Company’s business strategy. For this position we are targeting a base pay between $134,400 - $168,000. Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Archer is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities, and those with sincerely held religious beliefs. Applicants who may require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should provide their name and contact information to Archer’s People Team at people@archer.com. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Information collected and processed as part of any job applications you choose to submit is subject to Archer's Candidate Privacy Policy.
Archer is unable to provide work visa sponsorship for this position at the present time.
Archer is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Archer Aviation does not engage with external recruiting agencies/individual recruiters with whom it does not have a prior written agreement. Archer reserves the right to make use of any unsolicited resumes that it receives and bears no responsibility for payment of any fees asserted from the use of unsolicited resumes. If you are a recruiting agency or individual recruiter wishing to do business with Archer, please reach out to People@archer.com. All employment processes are managed by the Archer People Team.

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