Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer – Special Programs
Archer · San Jose, California, United States
Posted about 3 months ago · $138,200 - $190,100
or apply directly on Archer's site. We never take the application ourselves.
Is this posting real?
- This role has been open
- 80 days Archer's roles stay open a median of 80 days
- Reposted
- No
- Salary listed
- Yes 93% of Archer's roles list one
- Ghost-job risk at Archer
- high 156 stale, 5 reposted of 158 open
- Hiring momentum
- 226 roles opened in the last 90 days ↑ up vs. the prior 90 days
- Last confirmed on the employer's board
- 2026-10-22
Measured from postings appearing on and disappearing from Archer's own greenhouse board since 2026-08-03. Full hiring picture for Archer.
About this role
The Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer in Special Programs at Archer will lead the design and analysis of propulsion systems for prototype vehicles, focusing on engine/motor sizing, performance modeling, and integration with airframes. This role involves supporting rapid prototyping from concept through testing, conducting feasibility assessments, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align technical approaches with program needs. The engineer will also produce technical documentation and represent the propulsion work in internal and external reviews.
- benefits
- 2/5
- freshness
- 1/5
- career value
- 4/5
- role clarity
- 5/5
- pay transparency
- 5/5
Scored from the posting itself — how clearly the role is described, how much it says about pay and benefits, and how recently it was listed. Not a judgement of Archer as an employer.
What you need
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion Engineering
- Demonstrated experience in aircraft propulsion design and analysis
- Experience across the full development lifecycle from concept to prototype
- Ability to work independently with significant technical ownership
- 8–12 years of relevant engineering experience
- Must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR/EAR
Nice to have
- Advanced degree in a relevant field
- Familiarity with hybrid-electric or turbo-generator propulsion architectures
- Strong aptitude for evaluating technical feasibility of early-stage concepts
- Comfort operating as a generalist when needed
What you get
- Targeted base pay range of $138,200 - $190,100
- Pay-for-performance culture
- Commitment to diversity and inclusivity
- Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities
Worth weighing
- No specific mention of remote work options
- Role requires significant independence with no direct-report support
- Focus on rapid prototyping may imply a fast-paced and potentially high-pressure environment
Summarised from Archer's posting. Read the full original.
Listed by Archer on their greenhouse job board, last confirmed open on 2026-10-22. PitchMeAI is not the employer.
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