Program Manager, Flight Test

Archer • San Jose, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Archer is seeking a seasoned Flight Test Program Manager to lead the planning, execution, and certification of our flight test campaigns. This role acts as the critical link between the design engineering teams, the flight operations crew, and regulatory authorities. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of flight test vehicles, ensuring that development and certification testing is conducted safely and efficiently. The position requires a deep understanding of flight test operations and advanced organization, communication, and time management skills.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 7+ years of experience in flight test operations or flight test program management
• Demonstrated experience with aircraft development programs (Part 23 or Part 25 certification preferred)
• Deep understanding of FAA regulations, specifically 14 CFR Part 21 and flight test risk management (e.g., FAA Order 4040.26B)
• Strong proficiency in scheduling tools (Microsoft Project, Primavera, or Smartsheet) and issue tracking (Jira)
• Experience managing complex logistics, including aircraft maintenance and remote site operations

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Flight Test Engineering or Business Administration
• Graduate of a recognized Test Pilot School (TPS) short course or full curriculum
• Private Pilot License (PPL) or higher aviation certification
• Experience with eVTOL, fly-by-wire systems, or high-voltage electric propulsion testing
• Experience with telemetry control room operations and real-time monitoring tools

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of flight test campaigns from initial ground runs and envelope expansion through final certification
• Serve as the primary interface between the Flight Test organization and Design Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams
• Develop, manage, and ensure compliance with flight test processes and procedures
• Oversee the configuration control of test vehicles, ensuring aircraft configuration and conformity align with specific test requirements
• Coordinate with the FAA and designated engineering representatives (DERs) to support Certification and Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) activities
• Manage external test site logistics, including remote deployments, hangar facilities, and airspace coordination
• Develop and maintain the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) for all flight test vehicles and assets
• Manage program budgets for flight operations, including instrumentation, maintenance, telemetry infrastructure, and external range costs
• Track and report flight test KPIs, such as sortie rates, test points efficiency, and aircraft availability
• Lead daily stand-ups and weekly program reviews with cross-functional stakeholders
• Identify critical path risks and implement recovery plans to mitigate schedule slips during testing delays
• Facilitate communication between technical teams and executive leadership regarding test campaign progress, technical challenges, and shifting priorities

Benefits

• Pay for performance culture
• Reasonable accommodations for job applicants with physical or mental disabilities, and those with sincerely held religious beliefs
• Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior