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Systems Engineer MQ-9B Programs

Poway, California
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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: Mid-Level (3-7 years)

  • Travel: 0 - 25

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Success Profile

What makes a successful Systems Engineer MQ-9B Programs 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

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Job ID 51645BR Company General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Experience Level Mid-Level (3-7 years) Job Title Systems Engineer MQ-9B Programs City Poway State California Workstyle Hybrid Full-Time/Part-Time Full-Time Salary Salary Range $81,080 - $141,650

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.

Highlights Working For GA-ASI:
  • This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus.
  • This position is eligible for a hybrid work environment (up to 1 day/week remote work from home) pending project needs.
  • Outstanding benefits including: 401(k) (with company match), company pension, on site cafeterias, gyms and outdoor recreation centers, Employee Recreation Association (ERA) which gives unlimited access to discounted tickets for amusement parks such as San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.
  • Outstanding work environment: team-centric, value and respect all contributors, great growth potential within GA-ASI project engineering and GA-ASI as a whole.

We are seeking a mid-level Systems Engineer with a strong focus on software systems to join our MQ-9 Requirements and Architecture Engineering team located in Poway, CA. In this role, you will support GA-ASI’s MQ-9B product line and contribute to the successful implementation of advanced system functions. As part of a growing software-focused systems engineering team, you will collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of system capabilities within the platform.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to leverage your expertise in systems engineering, particularly software systems—to deliver cutting-edge technology solutions. You will also have the chance to mentor junior engineers, coordinate cross-functional efforts, and drive technical innovation in support of an expanding global customer base.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform System Engineering activities primarily focused on Unmanned Aircraft (UA) related programs.
  • Work across multiple engineering disciplines to develop, validate, implement and integrate capabilities into the MQ-9 platform based on customer requirements.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to review and refine system requirements.
  • Ensure that requirements are traceable, achievable, and aligned with project goals.
  • Use tools like DOORS or Jama to manage requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Participate in the design of system architectures, ensuring they meet functional and performance requirements. Identify potential risks in system design, development, or implementation.
  • Determine system impacts based on functional analysis to a proposed change.
  • Assist in developing technical specifications and models for system components.
  • Apply Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) principles and tools to solve engineering challenges.
  • Utilize engineering tools for simulation, modeling, and analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, or CAD software).
  • Work on integrating hardware, software, and other subsystems into larger systems.
  • Develop and execute test plans, procedures, and scripts to validate system functionality.
  • Troubleshoot issues during integration and testing phases, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to resolve them.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including design documents, test reports, and system manuals.
  • Prepare presentations and reports for internal reviews or customer briefings.
  • Work closely with senior engineers, project managers, and cross-functional teams (e.g., software, hardware, and manufacturing).
  • Effectively interface with personnel, both internal and external to the organization, using strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Participate in design reviews, technical discussions, and status meetings.
  • Ensure systems comply with relevant standards, such as MIL-STD (military standards) and ITAR/EAR (export control regulations).
  • Support efforts to meet certification requirements, such as DO-178 for software or DO-254 for hardware.
  • 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.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.

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; four or more years of experience with a bachelors degree or two or more years of experience with a masters degree. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Must have a complete understanding of engineering concepts, principles, codes, and theory; experience demonstrating a broad application of those concepts; and, expanding knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties.
  • 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 have excellent communication, computer, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Able to perform complex tasks in one engineering area; and, lead a team of less experienced professional employees on semi-routine tasks.
  • Able to work extended hours as required.
  • A Professional Engineering License is desirable.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Security Clearance is required.

Salary:$81,080 - $141,650
Travel Percentage Required 0 - 25 Relocation Assistance Provided Provided US Citizenship Required? Yes Clearance Required? Desired Clearance Level Mid-Level (3-7 years)
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Benefits

  • Healthcare

  • Pension, 401(k)/Retirement Plans

  • Competitive Pay

  • Multiple product lines means a variety of work

  • Paid Time Off

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Image of Peter, Senior Staff Engineer
“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
Image of Debra, CSSBB: 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
Image of Scott, Laser Scientist
“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
Image of John, Staff Engineer
“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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