Project Engineer – Ground Control Systems

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 142,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks a Project Engineer to support Ground Control Station development for the MQ-1C Gray Eagle program. This role ensures reliable C2, mission execution, and readiness of a premier UAS platform, working across multidisciplinary teams in a secure defense environment.

The ideal candidate has strong project execution and systems engineering experience in regulated defense settings, with hands-on GCS knowledge and DoD standard familiarity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's/Master's/PhD in engineering or related technical field required, with progression experience.
• Hands-on experience with Ground Control Stations or command-and-control systems for unmanned platforms.
• Strong understanding of UAS architectures including GCS, datalink, and payload integration.
• Experience in regulated defense environments and DoD standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461).

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering efforts supporting Ground Control Stations (GCS) for MQ-1C Gray Eagle UAS.
• Manage system requirements, architecture, and interface definitions for C2 and data systems.
• Coordinate across systems, software, hardware, networks, cybersecurity, and human-machine interfaces.
• Oversee integration of GCS subsystems including operator workstations and datalinks.
• Plan and execute IV&V activities in lab and field environments.
• Support development and sustainment of Gray Eagle GCS configurations and upgrades.
• Interface with Army stakeholders, program offices, and external partners.
• Ensure compliance with DoD standards and cybersecurity frameworks (RMF).
• Identify risks and drive mitigation across the program lifecycle.

Skills

Systems integration

Cross-functional coordination

C2 and data link concepts

Technical communication with military

Education

Engineering degree (Bachelors/Master's/PhD)

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.

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 to support Ground Control Station (GCS) development and sustainment for the MQ-1C Gray Eagle program. This role is critical to ensuring reliable command and control (C2), mission execution, and operational readiness of one of the U.S. Army’s premier medium-altitude UAS platforms.
The ideal candidate will combine strong project execution capabilities with systems engineering expertise to deliver mission-critical GCS solutions in a secure, highly regulated defense environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead engineering efforts supporting Ground Control Stations (GCS) for the MQ-1C Gray Eagle UAS
• Manage system requirements, architecture, and interface definitions for C2, payload control, and data dissemination systems
• Coordinate across multidisciplinary teams (systems, software, hardware, networks, cybersecurity, and human-machine interface)
• Oversee integration of GCS subsystems including operator workstations, datalinks, SATCOM/LOS communications, and mission planning systems
• Plan and execute system integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) activities in lab and field environments
• Support development and sustainment of Gray Eagle GCS configurations, upgrades, and capability enhancements
• Interface with U.S. Army stakeholders, program offices, and external partners
• Ensure compliance with DoD standards, airworthiness requirements, and cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., RMF)
• Identify technical risks and drive mitigation strategies across program lifecycle
• Support deployment, field testing, and operational troubleshooting at CONUS/OCONUS sites as 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 bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; four or more years of experience with a bachelors degree or two or more years of experience with a masters degree. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Hands-on experience with Ground Control Stations or command-and-control systems for unmanned platforms
• Understanding of UAS architectures, including air vehicle, GCS, datalink (LOS/BLOS), and payload integration
• Experience with system integration, test planning, and verification in a regulated defense environment
• Familiarity with DoD standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461) and airworthiness processes
• Strong knowledge and hands-on experience with computer networks and hardware
• Strong technical documentation skills (requirements, ICDs, test procedures, etc.)
• Ability to manage cross-functional technical efforts and communicate with diverse stakeholders

Key Skills

• Systems integration and troubleshooting in complex, mission-critical environments
• Technical leadership and cross-team coordination
• Risk identification and mitigation
• Strong communication with both engineering teams and military stakeholders
• Adaptability in fast-paced, operationally focused programs

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with the MQ-1C Gray Eagle or similar medium-altitude UAS platforms (e.g., Predator-class systems)
• Knowledge of Army UAS operations, mission workflows, and operator interfaces
• Experience with SATCOM, Ku-band systems, secure data links, and tactical ground/airborne RT radios
• Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks such as Risk Management Framework (RMF) and accreditation processes
• CompTIA or Cisco certifications (A+, Network+, Security+, CCNA, CCNP)
• PMP certification or equivalent project management experience
• Ability to obtain a maintain a DoD secret security clearance is required.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 81,080 - 141,650