How to apply for Principal Certification Engineer

About Archer

Archer is at the forefront of urban air mobility, developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to transform city transportation. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Archer offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of flight while reducing carbon emissions.

About the role

As Principal Certification Engineer, you will lead certification strategies for Archer's eVTOL aircraft, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations. Your work directly impacts the safety and market entry of a groundbreaking aircraft, bridging engineering teams and regulatory bodies.

A typical day

A typical day might start with a cross-functional meeting to review certification plan progress, followed by drafting compliance reports for FAA submission. You'll likely spend time liaising with DERs on technical issues, then mentor junior engineers on regulatory interpretation. Afternoons could involve risk assessments for upcoming certification tests or reviewing design changes for compliance impact.

Who Archer is looking for

• A seasoned engineer with 15+ years in aircraft certification, specifically with Part 23 and related FAA regulations (e.g., 8110.4c, AC 20-107).
• Hands-on experience as a liaison with FAA DERs and direct communication with regulatory authorities on complex compliance issues.
• Proven ability to lead certification plans and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Familiarity with eVTOL or novel aircraft concepts and the unique certification challenges they present.

Tips for this application

• Highlight specific FAA certification projects you led, especially those involving novel technologies like electric propulsion or fly-by-wire.
• Quantify your experience with Part 23 and other regulations; mention the number of certification plans you authored or reviewed.
• Demonstrate your ability to work with DERs by describing a challenging interaction and how you resolved it.
• Tailor your resume to show experience with eVTOL or similar innovative aircraft—even if it's from a research or academic background.
• In your cover letter, express enthusiasm for Archer's mission and mention any knowledge of their Midnight aircraft or partnerships (e.g., with United Airlines).

What to cover in your cover letter

['Emphasize your deep expertise in FAA certification processes and your ability to navigate regulatory hurdles for novel aircraft.', 'Showcase your leadership in coordinating cross-functional teams and your success in obtaining certification approvals.', "Connect your experience to Archer's specific goals—e.g., certification of their eVTOL aircraft for urban air mobility.", 'Highlight your proactive communication style and experience interfacing with FAA officials to build trust and streamline compliance.']

Research before applying

• Study Archer's Midnight aircraft specifications, its eVTOL architecture, and any published certification roadmaps.
• Review Archer's recent FAA milestones, such as special conditions or type certification progress.
• Understand the competitive landscape (e.g., Joby, Lilium) and how Archer differentiates its certification approach.
• Read Archer's investor presentations or press releases for insights into their regulatory strategy and partnerships.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Walk through a certification plan you developed—how did you determine compliance methods for a novel system?
• Describe a time you had a disagreement with a DER or FAA official; how did you resolve it?
• How would you approach certifying an eVTOL aircraft under Part 23, given its unique flight characteristics?
• What experience do you have with special conditions or exemptions for unconventional designs?
• How do you prioritize certification tasks when timelines are tight and resources are limited?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Failing to demonstrate direct experience with FAA regulations—vague references to 'certification' without specifics can hurt.
• Overlooking the importance of eVTOL-specific challenges like battery certification or noise compliance.
• Not showing leadership or coordination skills—this role requires influencing engineering teams without direct authority.