Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer – Entry Level

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) in Poway, CA, is seeking an entry-level Test Engineer for the Flight Test Instrumentation Team to contribute to the development and execution of UAV flight test programs across the company.

The role is hands-on, requiring troubleshooting of test systems on the fly, travel to remote locations, and collaboration with flight operations, engineering and program management.

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical discipline, or equivalent engineering experience.
• Must be enthusiastic about working with company products and systems.
• Self-starter with ability to quickly learn concepts and manage evolving tasks.
• Desire to support hands-on test activities at remote locations.
• Thrives in a dynamic environment with shifting test schedules.
• Ability to analyze test data and communicate results using Excel and MS Office.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; able to document procedures and results.
• Capable of working independently and in a team.
• Willing to work extended hours and travel as needed.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop flight-hardened instrumentation systems for flight test programs.
• Conduct bench tests of complex instrumentation and networks to validate methods.
• Install measurement sensors and data acquisition systems on aircraft for flight testing.
• Troubleshoot electromechanical and data acquisition systems in real time.
• Develop and document test procedures, specifications, and results.
• Provide technical support and system documentation during testing.
• Perform Modal and Ground Vibration Tests on components and aircraft.
• Define flight and ground test objectives and design appropriate systems.
• Collaborate with test engineers and technicians on development testing.
• Ensure readiness of test assets, including hardware and software configuration.

Skills

Self-starter

Hands-on tester

Data analysis

Excel proficiency

Strong communication

Independent and team player

Willing to travel

Security clearance eligible

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Excel

MATLAB

Python

C

3D modeling software

Job description

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) in Poway, CA, is seeking an entry-level Test Engineer for the Flight Test Instrumentation Team to contribute to the development and execution of UAV flight test programs across the company.

The role is hands-on, requiring troubleshooting of test systems on the fly, travel to remote locations, and collaboration with flight operations, engineering and program management.