Senior Systems Engineer - Communications Systems Architect
Poway, California
Overview
General Atomics pioneers technologies with the potential to change the world. Behind a talented global team of engineers, GA delivers safe, sustainable, and economical solutions to meet growing global demands. Our Engineers have an opportunity to work on first of a kind product lines within an incredible, dynamic environment.
Engineering positions typically require a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience. Candidates from mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering backgrounds must know the fundamentals of engineering system developments, requirements, testing, and integration before getting to the final stages of customer interface and project management.
Schedule: Full-Time Salary
Job Level: Senior (8+ years)
Travel: 0 - 25
Success Profile
What makes a successful Senior Systems Engineer - Communications Systems Architect at General Atomics? Check out the top traits we’re looking for and see if you have the right mix.
- Analytical
- Collaborative
- Inventive
- Problem Solver
- Team Player
- Creative
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 currently have an exciting opportunity for a seasoned Systems Engineer to define, develop and lead the integration of new communications and networking payloads into GA-ASI's Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Our Systems Engineering group is a part of our Agile Mission Systems (AMS) division.
In this critical position, you will have the ability to define platform level communication architectures and see them rapidly fielded. This is a key growth area for GA-ASI over the next 2 years.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Define, develop, and lead the integration of new communications and networking payloads into UAS.
- Identify new airborne network/communications payload concepts that improve mission capabilities for Warfighter communications and networking, such as new communications interoperability / gateway capabilities, range extension or relay capabilities, or new links or protocols to service new users from airborne platforms.
- Leverage extensive knowledge of existing military radios and waveforms to provide viable communication mission architecture for new and existing platforms.
- Exercise considerable latitude in determining technical objectives for the review, research, design, development, and/or solution(s) for a designated engineering system(s) or project(s)/program(s).
- Function in an advisory or leadership role with regards to the planning and oversight of the successful resolution and implementation of engineering problem(s) and provides direction and guidance to professional and support staff.
- Formulate technical plans, typically multi-year, for solutions development, documentation, and deployment.
- Performs other duties as assigned or required.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications:
- 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; Twelve or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, ten or more years of experience with a masters degree, or seven or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
- Extensive experience with and detailed knowledge of US DoD communications systems and datalinks, such as Link 16, TTNT, CDL mesh networks and their use and integration requirements
- Ability to prescribe detailed airborne and terrestrial communications architecture including performance calculations, trades studies, mission analysis, and resulting system level requirements
- Understanding the design and implementation of Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) implementation by US DoD services. Familiarity with both architecture standards like Open Mission Systems (OMS) and hardware standards like Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) a plus.
- Familiar with IP networking technologies and protocols
- Experience with related DoD Cyber Security requirements and Cross Domain Solutions
- Proficiency decomposing high level mission needs into a system to be built
- Ability to document and communicate this solution, including architecture, requirements, trade studies, etc.
- Experience integrating communications payloads onto aircraft
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.
- Ability to hold a SAP/SAR clearance.
Salary:$116,480 - $208,505
Benefits
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Healthcare
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Pension, 401(k)/Retirement Plans
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Competitive Pay
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Multiple product lines means a variety of work
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Paid Time Off

“The company is growing, has a very good reputation and had open positions in my area of expertise (aircraft design/design methodology development).”– Peter, Senior Staff Engineer

“We don't ascribe to quotas; we do ascribe to securing the BEST talent to enrich our culture toward healthy diversification and active/viable community service. We are STEM advocates.”– Debra, CSSBB: Staff Engineer

“Every day is different, with different problems to solve and many programs to support. I am a problem solver and have always been motivated by the tough questions.”– Scott, Laser Scientist

“I work in the Components Engineering and Obsolescence Management Dept. Our efforts are saving General Atomics several millions of dollars by proactively leading and informing the company of all these decisions which significantly impact production, sustainment and new designs.”– John, Staff Engineer
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