Mechanical Systems Engineer - Fuel Systems

Archer Technologies

Archer Technologies

Software Engineering
San Jose, CA, USA
Posted on Feb 12, 2026

Archer is an aerospace company based in San Jose, California building an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft with a mission to advance the benefits of sustainable air mobility. We are designing, manufacturing, and operating an all-electric aircraft that can carry four passengers while producing minimal noise.

Our sights are set high and our problems are hard, and we believe that diversity in the workplace is what makes us smarter, drives better insights, and will ultimately lift us all to success. We are dedicated to cultivating an equitable and inclusive environment that embraces our differences, and supports and celebrates all of our team members.

What You'll Do:

  • Design and integrate the complete fuel system for a hybrid-electric prototype aircraft
  • Own the fuel system architecture including tanks, pumps, valves, filters, lines, and associated components
  • Layout and control the configuration of the fuel system in 3D CAD, ensuring proper routing and integration with airframe
  • Interface with suppliers to identify, evaluate, and select appropriate COTS components for fuel system applications
  • Lead trade studies and design analyses focused on weight optimization, system complexity reduction, and reliability
  • Own the prototype development process; requirements, design, BOM, procurement, assembly, test, and qualification
  • Complete calculations to verify fuel flow rates, pressure drops, pump performance, and system margins
  • Collaborate with powertrain, airframe, and structural teams to ensure proper fuel system integration
  • Develop verification testing strategies and support rigorous qualification testing (flow testing, pressure testing, vibration, etc.)
  • Create and review technical drawings, system schematics, installation plans, and specifications
  • Support requirements development and documentation for fuel system performance and safety
  • Conduct design reviews and present trade study results to stakeholders

What You Need:

  • 5-15 years of mechanical or systems engineering experience in aerospace or aviation
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering
  • Experience designing or integrating aircraft fuel systems or fluid systems
  • Proficient in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, NX, CATIA, etc.) for fuel system layout and tube/hose routing
  • Ability to manage CAD and complex assemblies in PLM systems (Team Center, Windchill, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, pressure drop calculations, and pump performance
  • Experience selecting and specifying fuel system components (pumps, valves, filters, fittings, hoses)
  • Familiarity with Mil-Spec fasteners and aerospace fluid system standards (AS, MS, AN fittings)
  • Fluent in GD&T and creating installation drawings
  • Knowledge of fuel system safety requirements and fire protection considerations
  • Strong supplier management and technical communication skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively and clearly with cross-functional teams

Bonus Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent)
  • Familiarization with Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or other scheduling software.
  • Knowledge of, and experience within, electric powertrain systems or aerospace systems.
  • Familiarization with Atlassian Jira and Confluence for task management and collaborative documentation.
  • Experience supporting vehicle development from concept/prototype aircraft phase through certification and mass production
  • Part 23 Certification Experience and/or experience working with ARP4754A.
Archer is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities, and those with sincerely held religious beliefs. Applicants who may require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should provide their name and contact information to Archer’s People Team at people@archer.com. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.


Information collected and processed as part of any job applications you choose to submit is subject to Archer's Candidate Privacy Policy.
Archer is unable to provide work visa sponsorship for this position at the present time.
Archer is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Archer Aviation does not engage with external recruiting agencies/individual recruiters with whom it does not have a prior written agreement. Archer reserves the right to make use of any unsolicited resumes that it receives and bears no responsibility for payment of any fees asserted from the use of unsolicited resumes. If you are a recruiting agency or individual recruiter wishing to do business with Archer, please reach out to People@archer.com. All employment processes are managed by the Archer People Team.