Systems Engineer MQ-9B Programs

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) seeks a mid-level Systems Engineer focused on software systems for the MQ-9 Requirements and Architecture Engineering team in Poway, CA.

You will support the MQ-9B product line, drive MBSE-driven system design, and mentor junior engineers while coordinating cross-functional initiatives across software, hardware, and manufacturing teams. The role emphasizes system architecture, requirements traceability, and integration of hardware, software,

Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline. May substitute equivalent engineering experience.
• Must have a basic understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and theory.
• Demonstrates the ability to follow and apply basic engineering knowledge, adapt standard techniques, and utilize the required diagnostics, tools and equipment, while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Perform System Engineering activities primarily focused on Unmanned Aircraft (UA) related programs.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to review and refine system requirements.
• Ensure that requirements are traceable, achievable, and aligned with project goals.
• Use tools like DOORS or Jama to manage requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
• Participate in the design of system architectures, ensuring they meet functional and performance requirements.
• Develop and execute test plans, procedures, and scripts to validate system functionality.

Skills

MBSE

Systems integration

Requirements tracing

Documentation

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

DOORS

Jama

MATLAB/Simulink

CAD software

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 mid-level Systems Engineer with a strong focus on software systems to join our MQ-9 Requirements and Architecture Engineering team located in Poway, CA. In this role, you will support GA-ASI’s MQ-9B product line and contribute to the successful implementation of advanced system functions. As part of a growing software-focused systems engineering team, you will collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of system capabilities within the platform. This position offers an exciting opportunity to leverage your expertise in systems engineering, particularly software systems—to deliver cutting-edge technology solutions. You will also have the chance to mentor junior engineers, coordinate cross-functional efforts, and drive technical innovation in support of an expanding global customer base.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform System Engineering activities primarily focused on Unmanned Aircraft (UA) related programs.
• Work across multiple engineering disciplines to develop, validate, implement and integrate capabilities into the MQ-9 platform based on customer requirements.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to review and refine system requirements.
• Ensure that requirements are traceable, achievable, and aligned with project goals.
• Use tools like DOORS or Jama to manage requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
• Participate in the design of system architectures, ensuring they meet functional and performance requirements. Identify potential risks in system design, development, or implementation.
• Determine system impacts based on functional analysis to a proposed change.
• Assist in developing technical specifications and models for system components.
• Apply Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) principles and tools to solve engineering challenges.
• Utilize engineering tools for simulation, modeling, and analysis (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, or CAD software).
• Work on integrating hardware, software, and other subsystems into larger systems.
• Develop and execute test plans, procedures, and scripts to validate system functionality.
• Troubleshoot issues during integration and testing phases, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to resolve them.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including design documents, test reports, and system manuals.
• Prepare presentations and reports for internal reviews or customer briefings.
• Work closely with senior engineers, project managers, and cross-functional teams (e.g., software, hardware, and manufacturing).
• Effectively interface with personnel, both internal and external to the organization, using strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Participate in design reviews, technical discussions, and status meetings.
• Ensure systems comply with relevant standards, such as MIL-STD (military standards) and ITAR/EAR (export control regulations).
• Support efforts to meet certification requirements, such as DO-178 for software or DO-254 for hardware.
• 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.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.

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 in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Must have a basic understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and theory.
• Demonstrates the ability to follow and apply basic engineering knowledge, adapt standard techniques, and utilize the required diagnostics, tools and equipment, while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
• Must be able to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.
• Good communication, computer, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other professionals, to produce appropriate documentation, and to present results to a limited internal audience.
• Must be able to work both independently and on a team.
• Able to work extended hours as required.
• An EIT (Engineer in Training) certificate is desirable.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Security Clearance is required.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 62,510 - 105,628