Propulsion Project Engineer

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

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is seeking a Project Engineer focused on hybrid propulsion to support R&D for next‑gen UAS.

The role reports to the Engineering Manager in the Advanced Programs Office and collaborates with Chief Engineers and IPT leaders to develop propulsion solutions for ISR platforms. Candidates should bring experience with turbine and gas engine development, battery technology, and system‑level integration.

Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in engineering with progressive engineering experience.
• Experience with turbine and gas engine development and integration.
• Strong understanding of battery technology, power systems, and electrical integration.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and coordinate across engineering domains.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Guide technical teams in design, integration, and validation of hybrid propulsion systems.
• Analyze propulsion requirements and translate into detailed subsystem specifications.
• Oversee integration of turbines, batteries, and power electronics for system performance.
• Collaborate with internal teams and suppliers to meet program milestones.
• Lead validation through simulation, bench + flight testing, and data analysis.

Skills

Hybrid propulsion

Turbine & gas engines

Battery technology

Power systems integration

System-level integration

Education

Engineering degree (BS/MS/PhD)

Tools

Propulsion analysis tools

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 with a focus on the development of hybrid propulsion systems to support research and development for next-generation Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Reporting to the Engineering Manager in the Advanced Programs Office, this role collaborates with Chief Engineers and Integrated Product Team (IPT) leaders to develop advanced propulsion solutions for Unmanned Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms. Major development areas include:

• Hybrid propulsion system architecture and integration
• Traditional turbine and gas engine development
• Battery and advanced power systems technology
• System-level integration of mechanical, electrical, and control subsystems

The ideal candidate will have experience in turbine and gas engine development and integration, with a strong understanding of battery and power systems. Direct experience with hybrid propulsion is not required, but the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams to develop and validate innovative propulsion solutions is essential.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Guide technical teams in the design, integration, and validation of hybrid propulsion systems for advanced aerospace vehicles.
• Analyze vehicle-level propulsion and power requirements and translate them into detailed specifications for subsystems and components.
• Oversee the integration of turbine/gas engines, battery systems, and power electronics to ensure system-level performance objectives are met.
• Collaborate with internal teams, external vendors, and suppliers to ensure propulsion solutions align with overall system objectives and program milestones.
• Drive the development and validation of new approaches to resolve complex propulsion and power system challenges.
• Lead efforts to validate propulsion system performance through simulation, bench testing, and flight test data analysis.
• Support installed testing and validation:
  • Coordinate and support the installation of propulsion systems on test articles and operational platforms.
  • Oversee and participate in ground and flight testing of installed propulsion systems to verify integration, performance, and reliability.
  • Analyze test data, troubleshoot issues, and implement corrective actions as needed to ensure successful validation of installed systems.
• Prepare technical documentation and present findings to engineering staff, management, and customers as needed.
• Serve as the primary technical contact for propulsion aspects of small contracts or component projects.
• Provide guidance and direction to design and technical staff, leading a team of moderately experienced professionals.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information and adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Work safely in accordance with established procedures and practices.
• Other duties as assigned.

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; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Experience with traditional turbine and gas engine development and integration.
• Strong understanding of battery technology, power systems, and electrical integration.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in the development and validation of complex propulsion solutions.
• Familiarity with industry-standard tools and methods for propulsion and power system analysis and validation.
• Ability to lead technical teams, drive technical discussions, and coordinate across engineering domains.
• Excellent communication, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Able to work independently and in teams, manage complex tasks, and represent the organization in technical forums.
• Willingness to work extended hours and travel as required.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 105,890 - 189,545