Electrical Engineer System Design

Job Summary General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

We have an exciting career opportunity for an Electrical Engineer System Design working in our Unmanned Aircraft Systems group in Poway, CA. Under general supervision with limited review, this position is responsible for determining and developing effective approaches for resolving a wide range of difficult engineering problems. Assignments are normally outlined in terms of overall objectives and reviewed largely at completion. Initiates the planning of engineering projects and develops innovative designs or modifications to meet project goals. Independently performs difficult/complex engineering work with instructions as to the general expected results. Documents findings, communicates results to engineering staff and makes technical presentations as required. Coordinates segments of a specific project and has frequent inter-organization and customer contact on difficult technical issues. Provides direction to design or technical staff and may provide direction to less experienced professional staff.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develops innovative but practical solutions for advanced technical systems, including electrical power systems, vehicle management/flight control systems, payload subsystems, etc.
• Architects electrical systems, evaluates electrical circuits and their operation at a system level, develops aircraft power budgets, evaluates equipment for compliance to GA-ASI and industry requirements, etc.
• Provides technical direction to internal functional engineering disciplines and vendors.
• Develops and presents reports and technical briefs that clearly communicate complex technical concepts during engineering meetings and program reviews.
• Routinely functions in an advisory or leadership role for a project/program.
• Represents the organization as a prime technical contact within the engineering team for assigned project(s)/program(s).
• Addresses technical issues requiring novel and creative approaches drawing on engineering concepts.
• Participates in the development of new or expansion of existing business opportunities.
• Maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

• Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; six or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, four or more years of experience with a masters degree, or two or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Must have a complete understanding of electrical engineering concepts, such as power, grounding, analog/digital circuitry, databus architectures, etc., experience demonstrating a broad application of those concepts, and ability to expand knowledge of related concepts, theory, and practices.
• Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly; apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment; organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases; and, determine the appropriate approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex problems.
• Must be able to approach problems via core engineering principles and by examining, understanding, and thoroughly explaining complex technical concepts to engineers and other professional staff.
• Must be able to develop new analyses, processes, and documents that allow other engineers to approach similar problems more efficiently in the future.
• Must have excellent communication, computer, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Experience with FAA Regulations, NATO Standards, Military Specifications, and other aerospace industry standards is desired.
• All applicants must be current US Citizens for this position and must be able to obtain a DoD security clearance.
• Experience with aircraft electrical systems is desired.
• Experience with high voltage (>200V) equipment and systems is desired.
• Familiarity with GA-ASI products is desired.
• Able to work extended hours as required.
• Aircraft pilot experience is desired but not required.
• Able to travel to flight test facilities in Southern California, Arizona, and other locations as required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance is required.