Senior Manufacturing Test Engineer

Senior Manufacturing Test EngineerSanta Clara, California, United StatesArcher 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 RoleThis role sits within Manufacturing Engineering and is responsible for aircraft-level functional and end-of-line testing as each vehicle is manufactured. You will help ensure each aircraft meets required performance, integration, and system-level standards before delivery or progression into flight testing.You'll focus on validating that each individual build behaves as intended—verifying systems, software, electrical behavior, and overall functional readiness—while supporting the transition from prototype to production.What You'll DoSupport the development and execution of functional test strategies for aircraft systems across manufacturing, from prototype builds through early productionPartner cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Design Engineering, Quality, and Flight Test to define test requirements and ensure adequate system coverageDevelop and implement automated test solutions to improve quality, repeatability, and throughputExecute functional testing in lab environments and on-aircraft, supporting fast-paced build and integration cyclesAnalyze test data to identify trends, failures, and opportunities for process improvementPerform root-cause analysis and drive corrective actions in collaboration with cross-functional teamsInterpret electrical and system schematics to troubleshoot integration and functional issuesContribute to the development of scalable test processes, documentation, and standard workEnsure compliance with FAA regulations and aerospace quality standards throughout testing activitiesWhat You NeedBachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering (or related field)4+ years of experience in aerospace or complex system test, manufacturing engineering, or integration environmentsHands-on experience with functional testing of electrical and software-integrated systemsProficiency with test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and aviation-specific test systemsExperience with data analysis and scripting (Python or similar) for test automation and troubleshootingAbility to read and interpret electrical and system schematicsStrong root-cause analysis and problem-solving skillsFamiliarity with FAA regulations (Part 21, Part 145) and aerospace standards such as DO-178C, DO-254, and AS9100Experience supporting prototype builds and transitioning into production environmentsStrong communication skills and ability to collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, and quality teamsHigh attention to detail in safety-critical environmentsBonus QualificationsExperience supporting type certification, STC, or PMA processesFamiliarity with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principlesExposure to automated manufacturing systems and advanced test infrastructureExperience working in fast-paced or rapidly evolving production environments (e.g., eVTOL, aerospace startups)Leadership or mentorship experience guiding junior engineers or techniciansPlease note that this job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not include an exhaustive list of responsibilities and qualifications.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 $126,700-$158,400. Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.Archer is committed to provide a safe workplace and a safe aircraft. This is a safety sensitive designated role. Employment in safety sensitive positions is contingent on successful passage of a background check and is subject to pre-employment and random drug screening.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 View email address on click.appcast.io. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.