Additive Manufacturing Engineer, Directed Energy Deposition (DED)

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

We have an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and proactive Directed Energy Deposition (DED) Metal Additive Manufacturing Engineer in our Additive Manufacturing (AM) department located in Poway, CA. This position will support the DED metal AM production and development efforts at GA-ASI in design (DfAM), process and parts qualification, first article, metrology/inspection, tests, technology assessment and novel DED manufacturing technology development. Although it is part of the Manufacturing Operations group, this position will be a key interface role between various other internal and external stakeholders such as Design engineering, Materials & Processes engineering, Structures, Programs management, and Supply Chains as serving as subject matter expert (SME) to help integrate DED metal AM into GA-ASI’s products and processes. This position will provide the candidate with a lead role opportunity into the growth of DED metal AM at GA-ASI.

DUTES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Subject Matter Expert (SME) on DED metal technologies, with a near term emphasis on wire-based DED technologies and associated materials.
• Responsible for AM application rapid development and rate production manufacturing workflow, qualification, implementation, and continuous improvement to enhance Quality / Yield, reduce Cost, and improve Productivity / Schedule. Initiate and lead lean manufacturing process improvement projects.
• Support manufacturing production planning and coordination, execution and operations process development.
• Support and lead the planning and implementation of AM (incl. post-processing) supply chain, equipment and associated processes and safety.
• Strategize, lead and execute development plans for novel DED convergent manufacturing systems applied to UAS structures.
• Provide production support to internal stakeholders involved in the manufacturing processes associated with DED AM part production and post processing, including interfacing with external strategic suppliers.
• Document manufacturing processes and assembly work instructions in conjunction with T&O Planning.
• Development, review and/or modifications of AM DED specification documentation with key Materials & Process stakeholders.
• Review engineering drawings, and provide expertise on metal DED during engineering review processes and support new DED application development and risk reduction activities.
• Key interface with engineering stakeholders such as design, materials, process and quality.
• Support and lead technology exploration, assessment and incubation.
• Work closely with DfAM engineering on manufacturing/production operations, and assist with design engineering’s knowledge transfer and teaching efforts.
• Disposition non-conforming parts, identify root cause analysis, and implement corrective and/or preventive action to reduce scrap and rework.
• Collaboratively lead projects for new application development related to DED AM technologies.
• Participation in internal and external AM group representation (e.g. conferences, collaboration groups, executive management reviews, etc.)
• Collaborate with Design Engineering during development, prototype and first article manufacturing.
• Support with metal DED AM supplier qualification, relationships and visits.
• Support in growth strategy of metal DED AM within AM department and across GA divisions.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.