Back

Engineer III

General Atomics

Location Pin Icon
Poway, CA
LOCATION

Job Description

As posted by the hiring company

Job Overview:

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 to support Ground Control Station (GCS) development and sustainment for the MQ-1C Gray Eagle program. This role is critical to ensuring reliable command and control (C2), mission execution, and operational readiness of one of the U.S. Army’s premier medium-altitude UAS platforms.

The ideal candidate will combine strong project execution capabilities with systems engineering expertise to deliver mission-critical GCS solutions in a secure, highly regulated defense environment.
 
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead engineering efforts supporting Ground Control Stations (GCS) for the MQ-1C Gray Eagle UAS
  • Manage system requirements, architecture, and interface definitions for C2, payload control, and data dissemination systems
  • Coordinate across multidisciplinary teams (systems, software, hardware, networks, cybersecurity, and human-machine interface)
  • Oversee integration of GCS subsystems including operator workstations, datalinks, SATCOM/LOS communications, and mission planning systems
  • Plan and execute system integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) activities in lab and field environments
  • Support development and sustainment of Gray Eagle GCS configurations, upgrades, and capability enhancements
  • Interface with U.S. Army stakeholders, program offices, and external partners
  • Ensure compliance with DoD standards, airworthiness requirements, and cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., RMF)
  • Identify technical risks and drive mitigation strategies across program lifecycle
  • Support deployment, field testing, and operational troubleshooting at CONUS/OCONUS sites as 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 bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; four or more years of experience with a bachelors degree or two or more years of experience with a masters degree.  May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Hands-on experience with Ground Control Stations or command-and-control systems for unmanned platforms
  • Understanding of UAS architectures, including air vehicle, GCS, datalink (LOS/BLOS), and payload integration
  • Experience with system integration, test planning, and verification in a regulated defense environment
  • Familiarity with DoD standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461) and airworthiness processes
  • Strong knowledge and hands-on experience with computer networks and hardware
  • Strong technical documentation skills (requirements, ICDs, test procedures, etc.)
  • Ability to manage cross-functional technical efforts and communicate with diverse stakeholders
Key Skills
  • Systems integration and troubleshooting in complex, mission-critical environments
  • Technical leadership and cross-team coordination
  • Risk identification and mitigation
  • Strong communication with both engineering teams and military stakeholders
  • Adaptability in fast-paced, operationally focused programs
Preferred Qualifications
  • Direct experience with the MQ-1C Gray Eagle or similar medium-altitude UAS platforms (e.g., Predator-class systems)
  • Knowledge of Army UAS operations, mission workflows, and operator interfaces
  • Experience with SATCOM, Ku-band systems, secure data links, and tactical ground/airborne RT radios
  • Familiarity with cybersecurity frameworks such as Risk Management Framework (RMF) and accreditation processes
  • CompTIA or Cisco certifications (A+, Network+, Security+, CCNA, CCNP)
  • PMP certification or equivalent project management experience
  • Active or current eligibility for a U.S. DoD security clearance