Propulsion CAD Designer

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks a CAD Designer IV to support our Propulsion Systems Technologies Team in designing, integrating, and supporting propulsion components for unmanned aircraft.

This role emphasizes hands-on, detail-oriented CAD modeling and problem-solving with propulsion systems. You will model, draft, and document parts and assemblies, manage BOMs, and ensure manufacturability while complying with aerospace specifications.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of drafting with 2D and 3D CAD solid modeling.
• Experience with NX and Teamcenter desirable; other CAD tools may apply.
• Ability to solve complex design challenges and communicate well.
• DOD security clearance ability required.

Responsibilities

• Support engineers in design, drafting, and documentation of propulsion systems.
• Create and manage detailed CAD models and BOMs for assemblies.
• Draft drawings with GD&T and layout views.
• Prepare drawing change packages and obtain approvals.
• Collaborate with peers and other engineering disciplines.

Skills

NX/Teamcenter

3D CAD modeling

Drafting techniques

Communication skills

DOD security clearance

Education

High school diploma

Engineering software certification

Tools

Autodesk

CREO

Windchill

SolidWorks

SketchUp

Onshape

Solid Edge

Blender

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 seeking a highly motivated CAD Designer (Designer IV) to join our Propulsion Systems Technologies Team. In this role, you will have the opportunity to help design, integrate, and support a wide array of innovative propulsion system solutions that directly impact the performance and reliability of our unmanned aircraft systems.

At GA-ASI, we highly value new ideas, creativity, and fresh thinking as we continue to lead the unmanned aerial systems industry. You will have the opportunity to learn and grow with exposure to multiple aircraft platforms and diverse propulsion system types.

In this role, you would support the propulsion team by defining and executing creative solutions to engaging mechanical design challenges of moderate scope and complexity. This position is ideal for a hands‑on and detail-oriented designer who enjoys solving complex CAD modeling challenges and wants to be a key contributor to GA-ASI's next-generation propulsion systems.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Primary responsibility is to support engineers in the design, drafting, and product documentation of various types of aircraft propulsion systems, including piston engines, turbine engines, propellers, fuel systems, oil systems, power generation, and related components
• Create and manage detailed CAD models of aircraft propulsion system components and large assemblies. This includes parts that are machined, bent & welded sheet metal, cast, routed fluid lines, hardware, and vendor/COTs parts
• Create and manage Bill of Materials for all models and assemblies
• Create models that accurately capture how a part is intended to be manufactured, integrated, function, interface, assembled, and maintained/serviced.
• Use expressions, features, patterns, datum geometry, relationships, and other parametric methods to create stable and easily modifiable models
• Interrogate CAD models for deflected clearance, fluid volume at various vehicle attitudes, and detailed mass properties
• Identify, interpret and implement the guidance from the appropriate design material, including internal manuals, military and aerospace specifications, manufacturer manuals, and other relevant sources
• Appropriately implement feedback into CAD models and drawings from engineers, management, peer review, subject matter experts and others
• Draft drawings of CAD models and assemblies, layout drawings with functional views to clearly show dimensioning, datum structure, and appropriate geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
• Complete a formal drawing change package by creating all required artifacts and documentation, completing drawing alterations, routing for approval, and appropriately implement feedback
• Collaborate and effectively interact with peers, management, and other engineering disciplines on technical matters requiring communication and coordination to solve complex challenges
• Prepare and review new design and design change documentation for delivery to peers, technical staff, executive management, and customers
• Perform work either individually or in a team environment and be able to work extended hours as required
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices
• Additional duties as assigned or 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 high school diploma or a certificate from a recognized organization certifying completion of a training program utilizing technical engineering software applications and five or more years of experience in all aspects of drafting techniques and skills using 3D CAD solid modeling. May substitute additional education in lieu of work experience.
• Five or more years of experience in all aspects of drafting techniques and skills using 2D CAD modeling and 3D CAD solid modeling. May substitute additional education in lieu of work experience.
• Experience with NX, and Teamcenter is highly desirable; experience with 3D modeling tools such as Autodesk, CREO, Windchill, SolidWorks, SketchUp, Onshape, Solid Edge, or Blender may also be applicable and may be considered as relevant work experience
• Must be able to determine an efficient approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex challenges
• Must have good communication, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills, as well as excellent computer skills
• A thirst for learning about new products and concepts
• Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Security Clearance

Other Qualifications We Value

• Having an understanding of mechanical design concepts, principles, and theory; experience demonstrating application of those concepts; and is continuously expanding their knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties
• Experience with assembling, disassembling, and repair of mechanical systems

Job Type: Full-Time Hourly

Salary range: 63,000 - 105,375