Project Engineer – Prototype Aircraft and Special Projects

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Adelanto (CA); Hybrid; USD 98,000 - 171,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working arrangement

Career development opportunities

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is seeking a passionate Project Engineer for the Advanced Aircraft Engineering team to lead prototype aircraft and special projects, guiding design from concept to flight testing.

You will coordinate across structural, flight, materials, and manufacturing teams; develop requirements and cost estimates; manage risks and schedules; and present technical results to stakeholders. Hybrid work with opportunities for growth.

Qualifications

• Degree and experience requirements as listed (Bachelor's, Master's or PhD in engineering or related field).
• Progressive engineering experience: 6+ years with a bachelor's, 4+ years with a master's, or 2+ years with a PhD.

Responsibilities

• Lead aircraft product development and project leadership for prototype and special projects.
• Coordinate across structural, loads, flight, materials, manufacturing and test teams.
• Develop requirements, statements of work, and project estimates.
• Manage supplier & manufacturing coordination and design for manufacturing.
• Lead cross-disciplinary teams and manage schedules, budgets and risks.
• Prepare technical presentations and documentation.

Skills

Strong communication

Presentation

Interpersonal skills

Composite structures

Education

Bachelor's/Master's/PhD in engineering or related field

Tools

Microsoft Project

Excel

PowerPoint

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 are looking for a passionate and innovative Project Engineer to join our Advanced Aircraft Engineering (AAE) team, with an emphasis on Prototype Aircraft and Special Projects. In this role, you will lead the development of cutting‑edge aircraft, supporting the project through all phases of the design cycle from requirements definition at conceptualization through flight testing. Join a team that’s shaping the future of unmanned aviation and making a tangible impact on aerospace technology.

Opportunity

• Be part of a globally recognized leader in aerospace innovation.


• Work on advanced technologies that redefine the industry.


• Enjoy opportunities for career growth, leadership development, and collaboration with top talent.


• Make an impact by contributing to groundbreaking unmanned aerial systems.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Aircraft Product Development & Project Leadership
  
  
  
  • Lead teams of engineers to accomplish the design and execution of prototype aircraft and special projects that align with program objectives
  
  
  • Coordinate across functional teams (Structural Design, Loads Development, Flight Technologies, Structural Analysis, System Integration, Materials and Processes, Manufacturing, Tooling, System Development and Test).
  
  
  • Develop requirements, internal statements of work, and project estimates for projects of varying scopes.
  
  
  
  


• Supplier and Manufacturing Coordination
  
  
  
  • Manage technical support for airframe structure suppliers, including statements of work and technical data packages.
  
  
  • Facilitate design for manufacturing and assembly processes.
  
  
  • Oversee the transition of designs to manufacturing, ensuring smooth integration.
  
  
  
  


• Team and Project Management
  
  
  
  • Build and lead cross-disciplinary teams to execute project goals.
  
  
  • Develop tactical execution plans aligned with program schedules and budgets.
  
  
  • Manage project scope, risks, budget, and technical challenges.
  
  
  
  


• Communication and Documentation
  
  
  
  • Interact with internal and external stakeholders to resolve technical issues.
  
  
  • Provide technical presentations and documentation as needed.
  
  
  
  

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.


• Opportunities for professional development and certifications.


• A collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.


• Access to cutting‑edge resources and tools in aerospace engineering.


• Hybrid working arrangement.

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; six or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, four or more years of experience with a masters degree, or two or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.


• The ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.


• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.


• Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Excel, and Powerpoint.


• Hands‑on experience with composite structures, including design, stress analysis, materials/process development, or manufacturing.


• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.


• Ability obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance required.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 98,100 - 171,398