Manager, Mechanical Actuator Development

Archer•San Jose, CA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Archer is seeking an experienced Manager, Mechanical Actuator Development to lead the design, integration, and validation of high-performance electromechanical actuators for flight-critical applications. This role requires a deep understanding of actuator system architecture, dynamic modeling, and performance analysis, as well as multidisciplinary integration across electrical, controls, and thermal domains. The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical leader with a strong foundation in mechanism design, high-reliability mechanical systems, and aerospace qualification processes—capable of driving concepts from requirements definition through flight-ready hardware on an aggressive schedule.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related field)
8+ years of experience in actuated mechanism or electromechanical system design
Strong communication and presentation skills at any level within the organization
Proven ability to take ownership of complex engineering problems through completion
Demonstrated initiative in seeking out critical information and driving technical closure
Experience in the majority of the following areas: GD&T for mechanical systems, Kinematic analysis and optimization, Design for 14 CFR Part 23 systems compliance, Structural analysis using hand calculations and finite-element methods, Materials selection, including alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and surface finishes, Siemens NX CAD and Simcenter or ANSYS FEA tools, Rolling element bearing selection and sizing, Involute gear tooth design and analysis, Ball and/or lead screw design and analysis, Structural analysis (static, modal, buckling, and fatigue)

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with PDM systems
Project or program management experience
Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, Mathcad, and/or LabVIEW
Hands-on experience in a machine shop or with mechanical assembly (professional or hobby)
Experience with RTCA DO-160, structural, or actuator mechanism testing
Demonstrated interest in aviation, such as pilot training or license
Experience in requirements management tools in the context of aerospace development processes.

Responsibilities

Design Lead a team of design and mechanical system engineers to design and develop high-performance, flight-critical electromechanical actuation systems from concept through production
Own overall actuator mechanical design and integration of motors, geartrains, rolling-element screws, bearings, brakes, housings, sensors, and electronics
Perform trade studies to optimize system architecture and mass while meeting performance and fault-tolerance requirements
Create and review CAD models, drawings, and engineering specifications
Develop actuator-system and detailed component specifications and requirements
Build and maintain system-level models to validate actuator performance
Act as single point focal for custom actuation development
Work side-by-side with program manager to development and maintain milestone and schedule strategies
Develop strong relationships and work seamlessly with internal functional groups for custom motor, controller, and thermal designs
Partner with peer design owners including actuator controller, flight controls, GNC, power systems, airframe, and software to deliver an optimized integrated system for the aircraft
Drive cross-functional project teams, coordinating with manufacturing, quality, sourcing, and test engineering
Lead design reviews and provide technical expertise for key decisions
Lead by example through hands-on problem solving, engineering rigor, and accountability
Demonstrate best practices in documentation, testing, and design validation
Mentor and oversee junior engineers, fostering professional growth
Collaborate with systems, safety, and reliability teams to inform DFMEA and ensure requirements are fully validated and understood
Lead and oversee technical performance of partnerships and suppliers for varied levels of subassemblies and critical components