Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. We have an exciting opportunity for a Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer to join our Electrical Flight Test team in Poway, CA.

This position provides a unique opportunity for you to grow across the entire cycle of a Flight Test Instrumentation project – being heavily involved with planning, system design, integration, execution, data display and post flight data delivery & analysis on GA-ASI's advanced aircraft platforms. In addition to aircraft projects, you'll have opportunities for projects ranging from hardware/software design, video, air and ground system telemetry and engine test stands.

The ideal candidate will have experience in flight test, flight test instrumentation engineering, system & cable design, data acquisition, with a strong preference for experience with Safran/ACRA/Curtiss-Wright instrumentation systems. This position requires heavy travel, at least 25% of the time, to support flight test operations at various locations.

Duties & Responsibilities

Collaborate with engineering teams to plan, coordinate, and execute flight test campaigns to validate system performance and ensure compliance with requirements.

Develop and design flight test instrumentation systems, cables, equipment, and software to facilitate execution and testing of unmanned air vehicles.

Configure, operate, and troubleshoot flight test instrumentation systems, with a focus on Safran/ACRA/Curtiss-Wright data acquisition systems.

Support the installation, test, and sustainment of flight test hardware and software at multiple GA locations and facilities.

Work with subject matter experts on the proper selection and location of flight test instrumentation with extensive work on the integration of flight test hardware into unmanned air vehicles.

Work closely with technicians, engineers, and project engineers to ensure successful execution of flight test objectives.

Work closely with SME's on build and design of analysis windows and displays.

Responsible for system level troubleshooting guides and fault isolation diagrams for AV and ground support systems.

Data extraction, conversion and upload.

Process, analyze, and report flight test data, including the preparation of technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.

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.

Job Qualifications

Typically requires a bachelors or masters degree in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and two or more years of engineering experience with a bachelors degree. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.

Electrical or Computer Engineering Degree Highly Preferred.

Experience in flight test instrumentation engineering, including test planning, execution, and data analysis, is required.

Familiarity with flight test instrumentation systems, with a strong preference for experience using Safran/KAM instrumentation systems, is highly desirable.

Experience with applied instrumentation such as strain gauges, load cells, and accelerometers.

Strong understanding of systems engineering processes, including requirements verification and validation.

Ability to interpret and apply engineering drawings, specifications, and technical data.

Proficiency in data processing and analysis tools, such as IADS & MATLAB is desirable.

Proficiency in LabVIEW, Python or other programming languages.

Proficiency in cable CAD tools such as Zuken E3 or similar.

Working experience with bus communication protocols and standards such as Serial (RS422,232,485), 1553, ARINC, CAN Bus and Ethernet.

Must have an understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and theory with technical experience demonstrating the application of those concepts while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Understanding of basic RF theory is a plus.

Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment and organize work assignments to meet established timetables.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with engineering teams, flight test personnel, and customers.

Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Demonstrated ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks to meet deadlines in a fast-paced testing environment.

Must be customer-focused, detail-oriented, and capable of resolving advanced technical problems.

Excellent attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, high-quality work.

Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Must be willing and able to travel at least 25% of the time and work extended hours, based on program needs.

Previous experience in aerospace, defense, or a related industry is highly desirable.

Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

Salary: $68,770 - $116,193

Travel Percentage Required: 0 - 25

Relocation Assistance Provided: Provided

US Citizenship Required?: Yes

Clearance Required?: Desired

Clearance Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Workstyle: Onsite

General Atomics is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. To learn more visit EEO Notices.