Advanced Programs Mechanisms Project Engineer

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.

This is a fast-paced, hands-on engineering role where ideas move quickly from concept to hardware. You won’t just manage mechanism designs, you’ll create them, test them, break them, and make them better. If you want to work on cutting-edge aircraft, solve hard problems, and see your designs fly, this is your environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own Mechanisms from Concept to Flight
  • Lead the design and development of critical mechanical systems and deployable mechanisms for advanced air vehicles
  • Architect solutions for:
    • Deployment and release systems
    • Actuation (electromechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic)
    • Hinges, latches, locks, and separation systems
    • Gimbals, pointing systems, and motion control hardware
• Invent, Prototype, Test, Repeat
  • Develop new approaches to solve complex, unconventional engineering challenges
  • Design and execute test campaigns—ground and flight—to validate performance
  • Rapidly iterate designs based on real-world data
• Drive Vehicle-Level Impact
  • Make key tradeoffs across weight, performance, reliability, cost, and mission effectiveness
  • Define and manage mechanism performance margins (force, torque, stiffness, life)
  • Ensure designs integrate seamlessly into overall vehicle architecture
• Lead Technical Execution
  • Guide analysis efforts (kinematics, dynamics, structural, fatigue, thermal)
  • Establish design standards, best practices, and verification strategies
  • Serve as the technical authority for mechanisms across multiple programs
  • Understand technical risks and develop creative approached to mitigating them
• Work at Speed
  • Operate in a rapid development environment with evolving requirements
  • Prioritize and execute across multiple concurrent efforts
  • Turn high-level concepts into executable designs and hardware quickly
• Collaborate Across the Ecosystem
  • Work closely with multidisciplinary teams including structures, avionics, flight controls, manufacturing
  • Interface with suppliers to develop, evaluate, and deliver hardware
  • Coordinate technical topics at customer reviews including SRR-PDR-CDR-TRR
  • Support proposal efforts, white papers, and next-generation program capture

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