Aircraft Technician

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 56,180 - 83,518; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks an experienced technician to perform assembly, test, and maintenance of UAV‑related systems on second shift in Poway, CA.

The role offers potential travel for mission support and field deployments, including international assignments, with added pay incentives for travel. The position requires reading blueprints, using precision hand tools, and ensuring compliance with safety and DoD requirements.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent with two+ years of experience.
• Must read blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Familiar with FOD and tool control procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assemble, test, and maintain UAV‑related systems.
• Read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Use hand tools and precision instruments to install components.
• Travel domestically or internationally for mission support.
• Adhere to safety and DoD clearance requirements.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Airframe systems

Quality inspection

Education

Associate degree

Tools

Hand tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Torque wrenches

Fluke meters

Lifting equipment

Computer operations

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 and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high‑resolution surveillance systems.

Performs and/or assists in modification, fabrication, assembly, operations, installation, repair and maintenance of general laboratory, experimental or commercial equipment. Assists in set up and conducts semi‑routine experiments and tests. Records and summarizes data.

This exciting new career opportunity may allow you the opportunity to travel to different parts of the US and the world while supporting the General Atomics team. This position may require traveling domestically and internationally for extended periods in support of aircraft deployment, field maintenance, and operational missions. This includes potential work in remote environments, providing hands‑on technical support, and collaborating with customer and company teams to ensure successful mission execution. Additional pay incentives may be available while traveling.

This position works second shift (2:30 pm - 12:00 am). We offer a 10% pay differential for working second shift.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Responsibilities include aircraft assembly, test of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV).
• Must be detail‑oriented, deadline sensitive and able to work effectively in a team setting. Must be cognizant of completing tasks within standard hours allocated.
• Performs installation and test of electro/mechanical actuators, landing gear, fuel systems, and avionics systems in accordance with standardized work instructions with limited supervision.
• Aircraft assembly could include cable routing, installation of aircraft system components, installation of engine support systems, and airframe related items.
• May also be responsible for off‑aircraft assembly of spare components and sub‑assemblies.
• Must be able to read and understand blueprints, drawings, and engineering specifications.
• Must have strong skills using conventional hand tools, calipers, micrometers, torque wrenches, and Fluke meters.
• Knowledge of office personal computer operating systems is required for other administrative functions.
• 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 practices and procedure.
• Must work extended hours when required. Other duties as assigned or requested.
• This facility operates on a 9/80 work schedule.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires associate's degree or equivalent with two or more years of experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Must be able to work with common hand tools and operate lifting equipment.
• Must have 4 years of hands‑on aircraft maintenance experience, troubleshooting systems, removal, and replacement of components.
• Must be familiar with FOD and Tool Control operating procedure.
• Knowledge of computer operations and applications pertinent to the field required.
• Must have the capability to perform complex assignments in accordance with work instructions.
• Knowledge of computer operations and applications pertinent to department functions.
• Strong working knowledge and understanding of aerospace safety.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret level clearance is required. Active Secret level clearance is desired.

Job Type: Full‑Time Hourly

Salary range: 56,180 - 83,518