Job Summary General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

We have an exciting opportunity for a junior Electrical Engineer (EE) to join our Electrical Technologies team located in Rancho Bernardo. We're looking for a motivated and talented individual—ideally with some entry-level experience in instrumentation and hardware—who enjoys working in a collaborative, dynamic R&D environment. The successful candidate will report to the Instrumentation and Embedded Controls Manager and work alongside a team of experienced engineers to support existing systems and contribute to the development of new technologies such as high-energy laser systems, advanced aerospace and electro-optic sensors, space-based optical communications, nuclear technology, cutting-edge technology ventures into Defense and “NewSpace,” and a variety of disruptive technologies in the expanding product portfolio of GA-EMS.

The ideal candidate can read electrical schematics and have a solid grasp of electrical engineering fundamentals. They understand how to work with instrumentation such as sensors and data acquisition hardware and are comfortable using tools like oscilloscopes and digital multimeters (DMMs) for testing and troubleshooting. They bring basic programming skills—ideally in LabVIEW—and communicate clearly in both technical and collaborative settings. A strong growth mindset, curiosity, and a hands-on approach will help them succeed in our dynamic and supportive R&D environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in the design, analysis, and integration of electronics, instrumentation, firmware and hardware across concept development, prototyping, integration, and testing. Projects may include high-power motor drives, laser systems, space systems, advanced sensors, and signal or image processing.
• Under general supervision and with regular feedback, the candidate will design, analyze, and troubleshoot both electrical hardware and firmware to support instrumentation and control efforts. This includes sensor integration, interpreting schematics and cable layouts, and developing basic firmware solutions or engineering GUIs.
• Support the commissioning and operations of high energy laser systems.
• Perform electrical and computer engineering analyses on systems and circuits, documenting findings thoroughly.
• Conduct hardware-level debugging using lab equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, DMMs).
• Develop and execute test plans and trade studies to validate designs and guide decision-making.
• Communicate test results and engineering findings clearly to team members and stakeholders.
• Support system bring-up, hardware validation, and data acquisition setup, learning from experienced engineers along the way.

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 or masters degree in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and two or more years of engineering experience with a bachelors degree. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required.
• Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of analog and digital circuits.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and cable layouts.
• Familiarity with programming languages such as LabVIEW, C or C++.
• Knowledge of communication protocols such as: I2C, SPI, UART, CAN or RS422.
• Apply engineering principles, concepts, and theory effectively, with the ability to organize, plan, and manage workloads to meet deadlines and milestones.
• Quickly learn and accurately apply new concepts in a dynamic project environment.
• Communicate clearly and confidently through presentations and interpersonal interactions with engineering staff and other professionals.
• Work independently when needed, as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Comfortable with occasional travel.
• Submission of a cover letter along with the resume is encouraged.

Salary:$68,770 - $116,193