Application Guide

How to Apply for Sr Software Verification Engineer

at Archer

🏢 About Archer

Archer is revolutionizing urban transportation by developing all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, focusing on sustainability and minimal noise. As a forward-thinking aerospace company based in San Jose, they're tackling hard problems in sustainable air mobility while championing workplace diversity and inclusion.

About This Role

This Senior Software Verification Engineer role involves verifying safety-critical software for the aircraft's battery management system (BMS) following DO-178C standards. You'll design comprehensive test plans, execute SIL/HIL testing, and collaborate with embedded developers to ensure the reliability of battery algorithms and low-level drivers in a cutting-edge aerospace environment.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day involves designing test cases for BMS software requirements, executing SIL tests on battery algorithms, documenting verification results, and collaborating with embedded developers to resolve defects. You might also develop automated test scripts, review verification artifacts for DO-178C compliance, and participate in cross-functional meetings about aircraft system integration.

🎯 Who Archer Is Looking For

  • Has 5+ years experience with DO-178C standards and safety-critical software verification in aerospace or automotive industries
  • Proficient in developing automated test scripts and frameworks using C/C++ and Python for battery management systems
  • Experienced with Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing methodologies
  • Demonstrates strong documentation skills for test plans, cases, and procedures derived from software requirements

📝 Tips for Applying to Archer

1

Explicitly mention DO-178C experience in your resume summary and quantify your verification projects

2

Highlight specific BMS or battery algorithm testing experience rather than general software testing

3

Include examples of SIL/HIL testing you've designed or executed, specifying the hardware/software environments used

4

Demonstrate your understanding of aerospace safety standards by mentioning specific verification artifacts you've created

5

Show familiarity with Archer's eVTOL technology by referencing their aircraft specifications or sustainability mission

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your experience with DO-178C compliance for safety-critical systems, specifically in aerospace applications', 'Specific examples of battery management system verification or similar energy storage system testing', 'How your automated testing frameworks improved verification efficiency or coverage in previous roles', "Your alignment with Archer's mission of sustainable urban air mobility and interest in their specific eVTOL technology"]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Archer's Midnight aircraft specifications and their battery technology approach
  • DO-178C standards and how they apply to eVTOL aircraft certification
  • Current challenges in electric aircraft battery management systems
  • Archer's company culture and diversity initiatives mentioned in their job description

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through your DO-178C verification process for a safety-critical software component
2 How would you design test cases for battery state-of-charge algorithms in an aerospace BMS?
3 Describe your experience with SIL/HIL testing environments and how you've debugged hardware-software integration issues
4 What metrics do you track to ensure verification completeness for aerospace software?
5 How do you stay current with evolving aerospace software standards and verification methodologies?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with only general software testing experience without aerospace or safety-critical system background
  • Failing to demonstrate specific DO-178C knowledge or experience in your application materials
  • Not showing awareness of battery management systems or electric vehicle/powertrain testing methodologies

📅 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!