Advanced Airframe Project Engineer

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 188,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Professional development

Collaborative culture

Access to cutting‑edge resources

Hybrid work arrangement in Poway

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. in Poway, CA is seeking an Advanced Airframe Project Engineer (Engineer V) to lead airframe structures for next‑generation unmanned aircraft.

You will drive design, analysis, and manufacturing integration across teams, delivering cutting‑edge airframe solutions for programs like LongShot and MQ‑Next. The role emphasizes leadership, DFMA, and program execution within a hybrid Poway workplace, with opportunities for professional growth and DoD‑level

Qualifications

• Degree in engineering or related technical discipline with progressive experience.
• Experience with airframe structures, design, stress analysis, or manufacturing.
• Ability to obtain DoD security clearance.
• Strong communication, presentation, and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead airframe/structures projects for advanced unmanned aircraft.
• Coordinate across Structural, Loads, Materials, Manufacturing teams.
• Develop requirements, statements of work, and project estimates.
• Drive DFMA considerations and transition designs to manufacturing.
• Build and lead cross-disciplinary teams; manage scope, risks, and budgets.
• Prepare technical presentations and documentation for leadership.

Skills

Strong communication

Presentation skills

Proficiency with Microsoft Project

Excel proficiency

Composite structures experience

Ability to work independently

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

Microsoft Project

Excel

Job description

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA‑ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft, tactical reconnaissance radars, and advanced high‑resolution surveillance systems.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA‑ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft, tactical reconnaissance radars, and advanced high‑resolution surveillance systems. We are seeking a passionate and innovative Advanced Airframe Project Engineer (Engineer V) to join our Advanced Aircraft Engineering (AAE) team in Poway, CA. In this role, you will lead the development of cutting‑edge aircraft structures for next‑generation programs including (not limited too) LongShot, MQ‑Next, Modular Mass Aircraft (MMA), SkyGuardian, and SeaGuardian, from requirements definition and conceptualization through flight testing. Join a team that is shaping the future of unmanned aviation and making a tangible impact on aerospace technology.

Opportunity

• Be part of a globally recognized leader in aerospace innovation.
• Work on advanced technologies and next‑generation platforms (Like: LongShot, MQ‑Next, MMA, MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian) that redefine the industry.
• Access career growth and leadership development opportunities while collaborating with top talent.
• Make an impact by contributing to groundbreaking unmanned aerial systems.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Airframe Product Development & Project Leadership

• Lead airframe/structures subsystem projects for advanced unmanned aircraft.
• Coordinate across functional teams (Structural Design, Loads Development, Structural Analysis, Materials and Processes, Manufacturing, and Tooling).
• Develop requirements, internal statements of work, and project estimates for airframe structures.

Supplier and Manufacturing Coordination

• Manage technical support for airframe structure suppliers, including statements of work and technical data packages.
• Drive design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) considerations.
• Oversee the transition of designs to manufacturing, ensuring smooth integration.

Team and Project Management

• Build and lead cross‑disciplinary teams to execute project goals.
• Develop tactical execution plans aligned with program schedules and budgets.
• Manage project scope, risks, opportunities, and technical challenges.

Communication and Documentation

• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to resolve technical issues.
• Prepare and deliver technical presentations and documentation as needed and present to leadership and customers.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and relevant certifications.
• A collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.
• Access to cutting‑edge resources and tools in aerospace engineering.
• Hybrid working arrangement in Poway, CA.

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; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them effectively in an evolving environment.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Project and Excel.
• Hands‑on experience with composite structures, including design, stress analysis, materials/process development, or manufacturing.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 109,500 - 187,875