Dynamics Engineer

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

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) in Poway, CA seeks an experienced Dynamics Engineer to model, analyze, and test structural dynamics across airframe components and full vehicles.

Responsibilities include classical and FEM analyses, model lifecycle management, test planning, and data correlation with ground and flight tests. The role requires a strong background in FEMAP/NASTRAN/MATLAB/ABAQUS, DoD clearance eligibility, and effective communication for technical reviews with

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related technical discipline and progressive engineering experience (9+ years with a bachelor’s, 7+ years with a master’s, or 4+ years with a PhD).
• Broad understanding of structures and dynamics; applies concepts across projects.
• Strong communication and presentation skills for reviews and leadership interfacing.
• Experience with FEMAP, NASTRAN, MATLAB, and ABAQUS preferred.
• Ability to obtain DoD security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop structural dynamic models using classical and FEM methods.
• Analyze composite and metallic structures, flight controls, landing gear, and propulsion systems.
• Manage models with PLM and ensure traceability across programs.
• Support ground vibration and flight test correlation; post-process data.
• Lead technical reviews (PDR, CDR, safety) and present results to leadership.

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical discipline

Tools

FEMAP

NASTRAN

MATLAB

ABAQUS

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 have an exciting career opportunity for a highly motivated, experienced Dynamics Engineer within our Airframe Integrity Group located in Poway, CA. This position will report to the Aeroelasticity and Dynamics Supervisor and will focus on structural dynamics modeling, analysis, and test of components, subsystems, assemblies, and full air vehicles. This position supports the air vehicle design, payload integrations, and air vehicle modifications throughout all product phases. Primary duties include analysis using both classical and finite element methods, model life cycle management, supporting test planning, test execution, and post-processing. This position includes support for ground vibration and static testing, creation of test models, and model correlation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop structural dynamic models using classical and finite element models (FEM).
• Modeling and analysis of composite and metallic structures, flight control mechanisms, landing gear assemblies, isolated systems, and propulsion systems.
• Model management and tracking using PLM.
• Working knowledge of FAR-23, FAR-25, JSSG-2006, STANAG-4671, MIL-HDBK-516, MIL-STD-8591, and other applicable requirements/specifications.
• Must be able to develop detailed structural design criteria, verification requirements, and documentation to support airworthiness and certification effort.
• Support the definition of test requirements and correlation of analytical models with ground and flight test data. Includes modal surveys, ground vibration test, and flight testing.
• Process test data, including time history data containing shock, vibration, and acoustic noise signals. Develop FFTs, PSDs, SRS, and other signal processing output.
• Establish, maintain, and improve analysis methods, tools, and best practices for dynamics, promoting standardization and quality across programs.
• Provide technical leadership for key engineering deliverables, including reports, dynamic response assessments, and design recommendations.
• Participate in and lead technical reviews (PDR, CDR, safety reviews, etc.), presenting analysis results, risks, and mitigation plans to internal leadership and external customers as required.
• Identify technical risks related dynamic behavior, develop mitigation strategies, and support trade studies that balance performance, weight, cost, and safety.
• Collaborate with chief engineers and other functional leaders to ensure that dynamics considerations are incorporated into program plans and milestones.
• Support proposals and new business activities by defining scope, estimating effort, and developing technical content related to dynamics.

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.
• Must have a broad understanding of engineering concepts, principles, codes, and theory related to structures and dynamics; experience demonstrating a broad application of those concepts; capable of expanding knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties.
• Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly and able to apply them accurately throughout an evolving and fast paced environment; organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases; determine the appropriate approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex problems.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required enabling an effective interface with other departments and/or professionals, and capable of representing the organization as a prime technical contact.
• Able to support testing and work extended hours as required.
• Experience with FEMAP, NASTRAN, MATLAB, and ABAQUS codes preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance is required

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 109,500 - 187,875