Flight Controls System Test Intern

Job Description

Archer Aviation: Summer 2026 Flight Controls System Test Intern

About Archer Aviation:
Archer is an aerospace company headquartered in San Jose, California, dedicated to building an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Our mission is to advance the benefits of sustainable air mobility by designing, manufacturing, and operating an all-electric aircraft capable of carrying four passengers with minimal noise. We aim high and tackle challenging problems, believing that diversity in the workplace fosters intelligence, drives better insights, and ultimately leads to success. We are committed to cultivating an equitable and inclusive environment that celebrates differences and supports all team members.

Internship Program Overview:
This is a 10-week, full-time summer internship program opportunity. The role is based at Archer’s headquarters in San Jose, California. Please note that relocation or housing will not be provided.

Program Dates for Summer 2026:

• May 26, 2026 – July 31, 2026
• June 15, 2026 – August 21, 2026

We will not be able to accommodate interns outside of these two program dates.

About the Role:
Archer is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented intern to join the Flight Controls System Test team. This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to gain practical experience in the verification and testing of Archer’s fly-by-wire flight control system. You will work closely with experienced engineers, supporting test campaigns and gaining exposure to various eVTOL aircraft systems. This is an excellent chance to apply classroom knowledge to cutting-edge aerospace technology.

Key Exposure Areas:

• Fly-by-wire flight control computer
• Avionics
• Actuation systems
• High and low voltage power distribution
• Engines

What You’ll Do (Responsibilities):

• Learn about the flight control system architecture and the design of its subsystems and components under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Assist in executing requirements-based tests for the eVTOL Flight Control System.
• Support data collection and analysis during test campaigns.
• Help correlate test results with analyses and predictions alongside team members.
• Assist in evaluating test data to verify component performance.
• Learn about FAA, DoD, and other aircraft certification standards and testing compliance requirements.
• Contribute to technical reports and test documentation.
• Participate in team meetings and design reviews.

What You Need (Required Qualifications):

• Going into your 2nd or 3rd year in your college career.
• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:
  • Systems Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • or a related field.
• Completed coursework in controls, systems engineering, or related topics.
• Strong interest in aerospace, flight controls, or verification/testing.
• Basic understanding of engineering fundamentals and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Able to commit to a 10-week internship.

Bonus Qualifications (Preferred):

• Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or other programming/analysis tools.
• Exposure to requirements management tools (Polarion, DOORS, Jira, etc.).
• Understanding of Agile/SCRUM methodologies.
• Coursework or projects involving testing, data acquisition, or systems integration.
• Knowledge of communication protocols (CAN, Ethernet, etc.).
• Previous internship or co-op experience in aerospace or a related field.

Compensation:
For this position, we are targeting a base pay between $25.00 – $35.00 per hour. Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Important Notes:

• This job description is intended to provide a general overview and does not include an exhaustive list of responsibilities and qualifications.
• Reasonable Accommodations: 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 requiring accommodation should contact Archer’s People Team at people@archer.com.
• Candidate Privacy: Information collected during job applications is subject to Archer’s Candidate Privacy Policy.
• Visa Sponsorship: Archer is unable to provide work visa sponsorship for this position at the present time.
• Equal Opportunity Employer: Archer is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs, without discrimination based on 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.
• Recruiting Agencies: Archer Aviation does not engage with external recruiting agencies/individual recruiters with whom it does not have a prior written agreement.