Software 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 mid-level Project Engineer with a software focus to support next-generation UAS development in Poway, CA.

The role emphasizes software leadership, requirements analysis, and cross-functional coordination within a matrix organization including IPT leaders. The ideal candidate has embedded and platform-level software experience (C/C++, Java) and will drive hardware-software integration while guiding a team of professionals.

Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelors, masters or PhD in engineering with 4+ years for Bachelors and more for higher degrees.
• Strong understanding of software engineering concepts, requirements analysis and system integration.
• Experience in aerospace software development is highly desired.
• Ability to lead software teams and coordinate across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Drive successful delivery of software components with technical direction.
• Translate aircraft requirements into actionable software specifications.
• Coordinate hardware-software integration and ensure system-level requirements are met.
• Interface with internal teams and external vendors for software solutions.
• Mentor design staff and act as primary software technical contact on small contracts.
• Prepare technical documentation and present findings to management.

Skills

Software engineering

Embedded software

C/C++

Java

Leadership

Requirements analysis

System integration

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

Model Based Systems Eng

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 mid-level Project Engineer with a software focus to support research and development for next-generation Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Reporting to the Engineering Manager in the Advanced Programs Office, this role works within a matrix organization alongside Chief Engineers and Integrated Product Team (IPT) leaders to develop the next generation of Unmanned Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms.

• Vehicle management software
• Avionics software
• Servo and actuation control
• Ground control station software
• Air vehicle hardware and software integration

The ideal candidate will have a software engineering background, preferably in aerospace environments, and experience with embedded and platform-level software (C/C++), as well as user interface technologies (such as Java). This role does not involve direct software development, but requires technical leadership in requirements analysis, design review, and cross-functional coordination.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Drive successful delivery of software components by providing technical direction, clarifying requirements, and resolving issues.
• Analyze aircraft-level requirements and translate them into actionable software specifications for subsystems and components.
• Evaluate and coordinate detailed software, electrical, and mechanical designs to ensure system-level requirements are met, with emphasis on hardware-software integration.
• Interface with internal teams and external vendors/suppliers to ensure software solutions align with overall system objectives.
• Apply engineering principles to resolve complex software and system integration challenges, including conflicting requirements and coordination issues.
• Prepare technical documentation and present findings to engineering staff and management.
• Represent the organization as the primary technical contact for software‑related aspects of small contracts or single component projects.
• Provide direction and mentorship to design and technical staff, leading a team of moderately experienced professionals.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information and observe all applicable laws, regulations, and obligations.
• 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.
• Strong understanding of software engineering concepts, requirements analysis, and system integration.
• Experience in aerospace software development (vehicle management, avionics, ground control stations, actuation systems) is highly desired.
• Experience in Model Based Systems engineering including the application of software systems analysis and requirements verification methodologies is highly desired.
• Ability to lead software teams, drive technical discussions, and coordinate across disciplines.
• Excellent communication, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Able to work independently and in teams, handle complex tasks, and represent the organization in technical settings.
• Willingness to work extended hours and travel as required.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 105,890 - 189,545