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.

GA-ASI has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Instrumentation and Test Technician on the mechanical engineering flight test instrumentation team. This role will be given increasing responsibility to learn and apply professional instrumentation practices, with opportunities for overtime work.

The Instrumentation and Test Technician performs and/or assists in modification, fabrication, assembly, operations, installation, repair and maintenance of general laboratory, experimental or commercial equipment. They will assist engineers in test set up at customer sites across the continental US and conducts semi-routine experiments and tests. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Fabricates, assembles, and installs simple laboratory and commercial equipment or experimental apparatus.
• Operates test laboratory equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and electromechanical sensors.
• Assists in the development of flight-worthy instrumentation systems using professional soldering, wiring and fabrication techniques
• Demonstrates a safety mindset both in laboratory and flight operations environments.
• Runs lab and experimental equipment; collects and summarizes data.
• Cleans, adjusts and replaces equipment.
• Ensures calibration, organizational and safety standards are met.
• Sets up and checks out semi-routine experiments and tests according to pre-arranged procedures, and records experimental data.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.

Additional Functions:

• Effectively organizes and safeguards high-dollar test equipment so that it is available for use for all flight test programs.
• Supports the fight test instrumentation engineering team with preparation and transportation of test equipment, and on-site test activities.
• Performs housekeeping and cleanup duties as required.
• Applies test instrumentation including, and not limited to, accelerometers, thermocouples, strain gages and pressure transducers.
• Performs operability checks of test instrumentation per established engineering procedures.
• Performs routine data collection and memory card maintenance of on-aircraft instrumentation systems per engineering procedures.

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 associate degree or equivalent with seven or more years of experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Must be able to work with common hand tools and operate laboratory equipment. Must have the capability to perform complex assignments with little or no direction.
• Meticulous attention to detail and quality is a must, especially when working with small parts or assemblies.
• Has experience with basic electromechanical system troubleshooting and repair.
• Exhibits a practical understanding of electrical circuits, including voltage, current and resistance measurement techniques
• Hands on experience with soldering and wiring.
• Ability to read and understand technical electrical and mechanical schematics.
• Proficiency with Microsoft tools such as Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Familiarity with hardware and software suites used for diagnostic testing.
• Ability and willingness to work on systems which have unusual conditions such as high pressure, high voltage, high energy, cryogens, or radioactive materials.
• Outstanding attention to detail and a focus on providing quality results.
• Energized by the opportunity to support test activities on aircraft, which may be located at remote test facilities and subject to extended workdays.
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly when confronted with unfamiliar hardware and hardware systems.
• Adapts well to sudden changes in test schedules and requirements. Comfortable in a dynamic work environment.
• Must have the ability and desire to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Must be able to work extended hours and travel as required (50%).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD Security Clearance is required.

Additional Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with strain gages and application is a plus.
• Hands-on experience with aircraft or UAV hardware is desired.
• Familiarity with data acquisition software such as LabVIEW is a plus.