Avionics Project Engineer

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems

Poway (CA)

On-site

USD 106,000 - 190,000

Full time

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Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) in Poway, CA, seeks a Project Engineer focused on aircraft avionics development to advance next‑generation UAS ISR platforms.

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, you will drive avionics architecture, datalinks, onboard computing, and MBSE-driven requirements across IPTs and suppliers, ensuring system integration and performance. Ideal candidates bring a strong electrical engineering background, proven leadership, and flexibility to travel as

Qualifications

Typically requires a bachelor's degree and progressive engineering experience: 9+ years with a bachelor's, 7+ with a master's, or 4+ with a PhD.
Hands-on experience with avionics systems, datalinks, onboard computing, and avionics networking.
Proficiency in ARINC, Serial, CAN, TCP/IP, and analog/digital I/O.
MBSE experience to improve requirements capture, traceability, and cross‑discipline collaboration.

Responsibilities

Drive the design, integration, and validation of avionics systems, including datalinks, onboard computing, and networking.
Analyze aircraft-level requirements and translate them into detailed avionics specifications.
Oversee integration of avionics hardware and software with ARINC/Serial/CAN/TCP/IP protocols.
Prepare technical documentation and present findings to engineering staff and customers.
Lead and mentor a team of engineers to meet program milestones.

Skills

MBSE

Avionics systems

Datalinks

Networking protocols

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's degree in engineering

PhD in engineering

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. We are seeking a Project Engineer with a focus on aircraft avionics development to support research and development for next-generation Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Reporting to the Engineering Manager in the Advanced Programs Office, this role collaborates with Chief Engineers and Integrated Product Team (IPT) leaders to develop the next generation of Unmanned Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms. Major development areas include:

Avionics systems architecture and integration
Datalinks and secure communications
Onboard computing and networking
Communications interface protocols (ARINC, Serial, CAN, TCP/IP, Digital and Analog I/O)

A strong foundation in electrical engineering principles is essential for this role, as is the ability to apply them to the design, integration, and troubleshooting of avionics systems. Experience with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is highly desired, as MBSE enables better requirements management, improved traceability, and enhanced collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

Duties And Responsibilities

Drive the design, integration, and validation of avionics systems, including datalinks, onboard computing, and networking solutions.
Analyze aircraft-level requirements and translate them into detailed specifications for avionics subsystems and components.
Oversee the integration of avionics hardware and software, ensuring compatibility with communications protocols such as ARINC, Serial, CAN, TCP/IP, and both digital and analog I/O.
Application of standard electrical engineering principles
Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE):

Apply MBSE methodologies to enhance requirements capture, system modeling, and design traceability.
Leverage MBSE to facilitate communication across engineering disciplines and improve overall system quality and efficiency.

Collaborate with internal teams, external vendors, and suppliers to ensure avionics solutions align with overall system objectives and program milestones.
Diagnose and resolve complex avionics and communication system issues, including interface and protocol conflicts.
Prepare technical documentation and present findings to engineering staff, management, and customers as needed.
Serve as the primary technical contact for avionics aspects of small contracts or component projects.
Provide guidance and direction to design and technical staff, leading a team of moderately experienced professionals.
Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information and adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
Work safely in accordance with established procedures and practices.
Other duties as assigned.

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.
Hands-on experience with avionics systems, datalinks, onboard computing, and avionics networking.
Proficiency in communications and networking protocols, including ARINC, Serial, CAN, TCP/IP, and both digital and analog I/O.
Working level knowledge of electrical engineering concepts critical to avionics, such as:

Signal integrity and conditioning
Power distribution and management
Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and interference (EMI)
Analog and digital circuit design
Grounding and shielding
Redundancy and fault tolerance
Sensors and actuators interface
Familiarity with electrical design standards

Experience with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) highly desired.

Familiarity with avionics integration, testing, and troubleshooting.
Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, drive technical discussions, and coordinate across engineering domains.
Excellent communication, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
Able to work independently and in teams, manage complex tasks, and represent the organization in technical forums.
Willingness to work extended hours and travel as required.

Desired Qualifications