Senior Aerodynamics Modeling and Optimization Engineer at Archer

San Jose, California, United States

Archer Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Aerospace, AviationIndustries

Requirements

  • BS / MS / PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a related field
  • 4+ years of experience with BS, or 3+ years of experience with MS, or 1+ years of experience with PhD modeling rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL aerodynamics at full-vehicle level
  • Strong understanding of fundamentals of fixed-wing and rotorcraft aerodynamics, performance, stability & control
  • Experience in eVTOL and/or multicopter vehicle aerodynamics design and analysis, including 6 DoF vehicle trimming and trajectory optimization
  • Experience with gradient-based and gradient-free optimization techniques
  • Experience with surrogate modeling techniques (like Kriging methods) and statistical analysis
  • Experience with experimental data processing and reduction techniques
  • Proficiency in Python programming
  • Experience with software development, object-oriented, version control best practices, as well as Git, CICD, Conda
  • Excellent work planning and issue resolution skills
  • Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work in groups and individually
  • Experience in a fast-paced design environment

Responsibilities

  • Perform low/mid/high fidelity aerodynamic simulations of Archer eVTOL aircraft
  • Develop linear/non-linear aerodynamic models to predict aircraft behavior and performance throughout the flight envelope
  • Analyze experimental data (either from flight test or wind tunnel) to identify sources of model errors, validate, and improve aerodynamic models of the vehicle
  • Develop efficient methods to feed flight test data back into aerodynamic simulation models of various fidelity and complexity
  • Contribute to the development of Archer aerodynamic software stack, improving methods and workflows
  • Coordinate with other cross-functional teams and pilots for flight simulator aerodynamic modeling updates and issue resolution

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Aerodynamic SimulationsRotorcraft AerodynamicseVTOL AerodynamicsFixed-Wing AerodynamicsStability & Control6 DoF Vehicle TrimmingTrajectory OptimizationGradient-Based OptimizationGradient-Free OptimizationFlight Test Data AnalysisWind Tunnel Data Analysis

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What experience level is required for this role?

The position requires 4+ years of experience with a BS, 3+ years with an MS, or 1+ years with a PhD in modeling rotorcraft, tiltrotor, or eVTOL aerodynamics at the full-vehicle level.

What are the key technical skills needed for this position?

Candidates need a strong understanding of fixed-wing and rotorcraft aerodynamics, experience with eVTOL/multicopter vehicle analysis including 6 DoF trimming and trajectory optimization, proficiency in Python, and experience with optimization techniques, surrogate modeling, and experimental data processing.

What is the location of Archer's operations?

Archer is based in San Jose, California; no remote work policy is mentioned.

What does Archer's company culture emphasize?

Archer values diversity in the workplace, believing it drives better insights and success, and is dedicated to cultivating an equitable and inclusive environment that supports and celebrates all team members.

What makes a strong candidate for this role?

A strong candidate will have the required education and experience in eVTOL aerodynamics modeling, plus bonus qualifications like machine learning for aerodynamics, wind tunnel/flight test experience, or familiarity with tools like RCAS, CAMRAD2, NASA Overflow, and Fun3D.

Archer

Designs and develops electric vertical takeoff aircraft

About Archer

Archer designs and develops electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft aimed at transforming urban transportation. Their aircraft operate by taking off and landing vertically, which allows them to navigate congested city environments efficiently. Archer targets urban commuters, city planners, and transportation networks, offering eco-friendly solutions to improve urban mobility. Unlike traditional transportation methods, Archer's eVTOLs provide a sustainable alternative that reduces environmental impact. The company generates revenue through the sale of its aircraft and may also offer air taxi services in the future. Archer's goal is to lead the shift towards sustainable air mobility, making urban commuting more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Palo Alto, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2020Year Founded
$637.8MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Automotive & TransportationIndustries
1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Performance Bonus

Risks

Regulatory challenges from FAA and DOT may delay operational plans.
Increased competition from companies like Joby Aviation could impact market share.
Reliance on strategic partnerships poses risks if expectations are not met.

Differentiation

Archer focuses on sustainable urban air mobility with all-electric eVTOL aircraft.
The company targets urban commuters with eco-friendly, time-saving air taxi services.
Archer's strategic partnerships enhance its market reach and operational capabilities.

Upsides

Archer secured $430M funding, strengthening its financial position for growth.
FAA approval for LA air taxi services positions Archer for urban mobility leadership.
Planned LA air mobility network could significantly reduce commuter travel times.

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