Flight Science Project Lead - Aerodynamics & CFD for UAS

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 106,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks a Project Engineer focused on flight sciences to support R&D for next-generation UAS.

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with Chief Engineers and IPT leaders to develop ISR platforms and integrate aerodynamic solutions on advanced vehicle systems. The ideal candidate has strong aerodynamics and flight sciences expertise, with experience leading multidisciplinary teams to solve complex aerodynamic challenges.

Qualifications

• Bachelors, Masters, or PhD in engineering or related field with progressive experience.
• Experience in aerodynamic shaping, CFD, wind tunnel testing and flight control systems.
• Understanding of flight dynamics and integration of aerodynamics with vehicle systems.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams to develop and validate complex aerodynamic solutions.
• Strong communication, documentation and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Guide technical teams in design, analysis and validation of aerodynamic solutions.
• Translate aircraft-level requirements into subsystem specs.
• Oversee integration of aerodynamic shaping, CFD, flight controls, and wind tunnel testing.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to meet milestones.
• Develop and validate new approaches to resolve aerodynamic challenges.
• Lead validation of performance via wind tunnel, simulation, and flight data.
• Prepare technical documentation and present findings to stakeholders.
• Serve as primary technical contact for aerodynamic and flight control projects.
• Provide guidance to design staff and lead a team of professionals.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with laws and policies.
• Work safely and perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Aerodynamics

CFD

Wind tunnel testing

Flight controls

Flight dynamics

Leadership

Technical communication

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's/Master's/PhD in engineering

Job description

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks a Project Engineer focused on flight sciences to support R&D for next-generation UAS.

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with Chief Engineers and IPT leaders to develop ISR platforms and integrate aerodynamic solutions on advanced vehicle systems. The ideal candidate has strong aerodynamics and flight sciences expertise, with experience leading multidisciplinary teams to solve complex aerodynamic challenges.