Designer IV

General Atomics; Poway (CA); Hybrid; USD 63,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance provided

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks a CAD Designer (Designer IV) to join the Propulsion Systems Technologies Team. You will design, model, and document propulsion components for unmanned aircraft, coordinating with engineers across disciplines.

The role emphasizes hands-on CAD work, complex modeling, and adherence to aerospace standards. Ideal candidates will have NX/Teamcenter experience and a track record with multiple 3D CAD tools, enabling rapid design iterations and

Qualifications

• Typically requires a high school diploma or a certificate from a recognized organization certifying completion of a training program utilizing technical engineering software applications and five or more years of experience in all aspects of drafting techniques and skills using 3D CAD solid modeling.
• Five or more years of experience in all aspects of drafting techniques and skills using 2D CAD modeling and 3D CAD solid modeling.
• Experience with NX and Teamcenter is highly desirable; experience with multiple 3D modeling tools may be applicable.
• Must be able to determine an efficient approach to provide solutions to complex challenges and have strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Support engineers in the design, drafting, and product documentation of propulsion system components.
• Create and manage detailed CAD models of propulsion system components and large assemblies.
• Draft drawings of CAD models and assemblies with GD&T and functional views.
• Prepare change documentation and coordinate routing for approvals.

Skills

NX

Teamcenter

3D CAD modeling

2D CAD

Education

High school diploma or equivalent certificate

Technical drafting training program

Tools

Autodesk

Creo

Windchill

SolidWorks

SketchUp

Onshape

Solid Edge

Blender

Job description

57576BR

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 highly motivated CAD Designer (Designer IV) to join our Propulsion Systems Technologies Team. In this role, you will have the opportunity to help design, integrate, and support a wide array of innovative propulsion system solutions that directly impact the performance and reliability of our unmanned aircraft systems.

At GA-ASI, we highly value new ideas, creativity, and fresh thinking as we continue to lead the unmanned aerial systems industry. You will have the opportunity to learn and grow with exposure to multiple aircraft platforms and diverse propulsion system types.

In this role, you would support the propulsion team by defining and executing creative solutions to engaging mechanical design challenges of moderate scope and complexity. This position is ideal for a hands‑on and detail‑oriented designer who enjoys solving complex CAD modeling challenges and wants to be a key contributor to GA‑ASI’s next‑generation propulsion systems.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Primary responsibility is to support engineers in the design, drafting, and product documentation of various types of aircraft propulsion systems, including piston engines, turbine engines, propellers, fuel systems, oil systems, power generation, and related components
• Create and manage detailed CAD models of aircraft propulsion system components and large assemblies. This includes parts that are machined, bent & welded sheet metal, cast, routed fluid lines, hardware, and vendor/COTs parts
• Create and manage Bill of Materials for all models and assemblies
• Create models that accurately capture how a part is intended to be manufactured, integrated, function, interface, assembled, and maintained/serviced.
• Use expressions, features, patterns, datum geometry, relationships, and other parametric methods to create stable and easily modifiable models
• Interrogate CAD models for deflected clearance, fluid volume at various vehicle attitudes, and detailed mass properties
• Identify, interpret and implement the guidance from the appropriate design material, including internal manuals, military and aerospace specifications, manufacturer manuals, and other relevant sources
• Appropriately implement feedback into CAD models and drawings from engineers, management, peer review, subject matter experts and others
• Draft drawings of CAD models and assemblies, layout drawings with functional views to clearly show dimensioning, datum structure, and appropriate geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
• Complete a formal drawing change package by creating all required artifacts and documentation, completing drawing alterations, routing for approval, and appropriately implement feedback
• Collaborate and effectively interact with peers, management, and other engineering disciplines on technical matters requiring communication and coordination to solve complex challenges
• Prepare and review new design and design change documentation for delivery to peers, technical staff, executive management, and customers
• Perform work either individually or in a team environment and be able to work extended hours as required
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information
• 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 procedures and practices
• Additional duties as assigned or required

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 high school diploma or a certificate from a recognized organization certifying completion of a training program utilizing technical engineering software applications and five or more years of experience in all aspects of drafting techniques and skills using 3D CAD solid modeling. May substitute additional education in lieu of work experience.
• Five or more years of experience in all aspects of drafting techniques and skills using 2D CAD modeling and 3D CAD solid modeling. May substitute additional education in lieu of work experience.
• Experience with NX, and Teamcenter is highly desirable; experience with 3D modeling tools such as Autodesk, CREO, Windchill, SolidWorks, SketchUp, Onshape, Solid Edge, or Blender may also be applicable and may be considered as relevant work experience
• Must be able to determine an efficient approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex challenges
• Must have good communication, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills, as well as excellent computer skills
• A thirst for learning about new products and concepts
• Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Security Clearance

Other Qualifications We Value

• Having an understanding of mechanical design concepts, principles, and theory; experience demonstrating application of those concepts; and is continuously expanding their knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties
• Experience with assembling, disassembling, and repair of mechanical systems

Job Category

Engineering

Experience Level

Mid-Level (3-7 years)

Workstyle

Hybrid

Full-Time/Part-Time

Full-Time Hourly

Pay Range Low

63,000

Pay Range High

105,375

Travel Percentage Required

0% - 25%

Relocation Assistance Provided?

Yes

US Citizenship Required?

Yes

Clearance Required?

Desired

Clearance Level

Secret

General Atomics is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. In accordance with applicable federal law, General Atomics takes affirmative action to employ and advance the employment of qualified protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. U.S. Citizenship is required for certain positions. To learn more, please review the EEOC’s "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" poster.