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← Archer

Principal Airframe Architect

Archer
Location
San Jose, California, United States
Posted
24 days ago
Department
Hybrid
Salary
$242,800 - $322,100
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • 15+ years of experience with innovative aircraft structures, including leadership within a recent civil or military aircraft development program
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • In depth understanding of load paths, laminate design fundamentals, metallic design fundamentals and analysis methods (FEA, closed form solutions for sandwich panel stability, lug and fastener hand calcs, etc.)
  • Broad experience across a range of airframe structures (fuselage, wing, pylons, empennage)
  • Strong CAD skills in NX (preferred), Solidworks, Catia or Creo
  • Hands-on manufacturing experience with composites (wet-lay, prepreg, autoclave, bonding, drilling/fastening) and machining metallic parts (milling, lathe, drilling)
What the job really is

As a Principal Airframe Architect at Archer, you will lead the development of airframe structures from initial concept through to flight testing. Your role involves evaluating structural layouts, developing airframe architecture, sizing structural components, and mentoring junior engineers. You will also be responsible for validating and verifying airframe requirements, ensuring that designs are robust, manufacturable, and cost-effective.

Benefits
  • Base pay range of $242,800 - $322,100, determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience
Things to weigh
  • No salary listed beyond the range
  • No mention of remote work options
  • No specific details on team size or structure
  • Company unable to provide work visa sponsorship for this position
Job score4/5
Benefits1/5
Freshness4/5
Career value5/5
Role clarity5/5
Pay transparency5/5

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