Application Guide

How to Apply for Sensor Modeling Engineer

at Archer

🏢 About Archer

Archer is pioneering the future of urban air mobility with its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and transform city commuting. As a well-funded startup with a clear path to certification, Archer offers the excitement of a fast-paced environment and the chance to shape an emerging industry.

About This Role

As a Sensor Modeling Engineer, you'll architect and implement physics-based sensor models critical for the safe and efficient operation of Archer's eVTOL aircraft. Your work will directly impact flight simulation, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and ultimately the certification and deployment of a revolutionary transportation system.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day might start with a stand-up meeting to align with the simulation team, followed by designing a new IMU model block in Simulink. You could then run HIL tests to validate the model against real sensor data, troubleshoot discrepancies, and document your findings. Afternoons may involve code reviews, collaborating with systems engineers on requirements, or refining modeling standards.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Archer Is Looking For

  • You have 3+ years of hands-on experience building simulation models for physical systems, ideally in aerospace or autonomous vehicles.
  • You are an expert in Simulink, comfortable with large-scale modeling, code generation, and HIL integration.
  • You possess deep knowledge of aviation-grade sensors (IMU, GNSS, INS, air data, radar altimeters) and their error characteristics.
  • You hold a Bachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or Robotics, and thrive on solving complex, multi-disciplinary problems.

📝 Tips for Applying to Archer

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific sensor modeling projects, especially those involving Simulink and aviation sensors.

2

Quantify the impact of your models (e.g., improved simulation accuracy by X%, reduced HIL testing time by Y%).

3

If possible, mention experience with eVTOL or similar unconventional aircraft to show domain alignment.

4

Include a link to a portfolio or GitHub with relevant simulation work, if available.

5

Address the remote aspect: demonstrate your ability to work independently and communicate effectively across time zones.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your passion for sustainable aviation and Archer's mission to decarbonize urban transport.", 'Highlight your Simulink expertise and experience with sensor modeling for aerospace applications.', 'Mention any direct experience with the specific sensor types listed (IMU, GNSS, INS, air data, radar altimeters).', 'Show how your work has contributed to system-level testing or certification processes.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Study Archer's aircraft design (e.g., Midnight) and its sensor suite to understand the application context.
  • → Read about Archer's certification roadmap with the FAA and how simulation models support certification.
  • → Review Archer's recent news, partnerships (e.g., with United Airlines), and any technical publications or patents.
  • → Understand the competitive landscape (e.g., Joby, Lilium) to articulate why Archer's approach appeals to you.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through how you would model an IMU sensor in Simulink, including error sources and fidelity trade-offs.
2 Describe a time you integrated a sensor model into an HIL test setup. What challenges did you face?
3 How do you ensure your Simulink models are maintainable and adhere to modeling standards?
4 Explain the difference between physics-based and empirical sensor models. When would you use each?
5 What is your experience with sensor fusion or Kalman filtering? How does that relate to sensor modeling?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic application without referencing Archer's eVTOL or sensor modeling specifics.
  • Avoid overstating your Simulink skills if you only have basic experience; be honest about your proficiency.
  • Don't ignore the remote-work aspect: failing to mention how you stay productive remotely can be a red flag.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Archer!

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