Aerodynamics Engineer

About this role

Archer, an electric aircraft company in San Jose, seeks an experienced Aerodynamics Engineer to design and optimize their eVTOL aircraft. You'll lead aerodynamic modeling, simulations, and design optimization while collaborating with flight test teams and cross-functional groups to advance sustainable air mobility.

What you'll do

• Perform and oversee low/mid/high fidelity aerodynamic simulations for eVTOL aircraft
• Lead aerodynamic design and optimization of aircraft components for performance and efficiency
• Develop linear, non-linear, and real-time aerodynamic models to predict behavior and stability
• Analyze flight test and wind tunnel data to validate and improve aerodynamic models
• Integrate experimental data into simulation models and improve aerodynamic software tools
• Partner with pilots and multidisciplinary teams to resolve modeling issues and update flight simulators

What they're looking for

• Rotorcraft and eVTOL aerodynamics expertise
• Advanced Python programming
• Aerodynamic design optimization (gradient-based and gradient-free methods)
• Fixed-wing and rotorcraft stability and control analysis
• Surrogate modeling techniques (Kriging, Neural Networks)
• Git version control and software development best practices
• Experimental data processing and reduction
• Technical communication and collaborative problem-solving

Benefits

• Competitive base salary ($160,000 - $220,000)
• Performance-based compensation structure
• Work on cutting-edge sustainable aviation technology
• Collaborative, inclusive workplace culture
• Access to flight test and wind tunnel programs
• High-velocity design environment with multidisciplinary teams

Likely interview questions

• Describe your experience with eVTOL or rotorcraft aerodynamic modeling—what tools and approaches have you used?
• Walk us through a project where you validated aerodynamic models against wind tunnel or flight test data. How did you handle discrepancies?