About this role
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.
With limited direction, this position serves as a senior technical lead in mechanical test engineering, leading the design, development, and execution of complex structural, environmental, materials, and qualification testing for flight hardware, components, and subsystems across GA-ASI’s aircraft platforms. This role exercises considerable latitude for initiating and developing innovative test methodologies, procedures, and solutions to advanced technical challenges in the test laboratory environment, including hydraulics, pneumatics, actuators, vibration, and high-load mechanical systems.
Assignments are normally outlined in terms of broad specifications, objectives, possible results anticipated, and critical reference points requiring special attention. The position guides the successful resolution of complex test engineering problems, serves as a consulting resource of test engineering knowledge, applies the latest testing technologies and methodologies, and functions in a project leadership role. Documents test findings, communicates results to engineering staff and customers, makes technical presentations, and represents the organization as the prime technical contact on test programs. Provides direction to test engineers, design staff, and technicians, and leads teams of moderately experienced professional staff.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develops and leads structural, environmental, materials, and flight hardware test programs from planning through execution and reporting in accordance with applicable standards.
- Designs and implements complex test setups (static, fatigue, vibration, combined loading, environmental, and functional) and executes materials characterization and system testing.
- Ensures compliance with engineering principles and validates results through analysis and correlation.
- Solves complex test engineering challenges using advanced mechanical engineering principles.
- Selects and applies test equipment, instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and designs test fixtures for high-load and mechanical systems.
- Troubleshoots anomalies, performs analysis, and supports evolving test needs.
- Serves as primary technical interface with internal teams, customers, and regulatory agencies.
- Presents test results, supports program reviews, and ensures test requirements are properly defined and executed.
- Provides technical guidance and consultation across teams.
- Leads and mentors engineers, technicians, and staff, providing technical direction on test execution and problem-solving.
- Ensures compliance with company policies, regulations, and safety standards while maintaining confidentiality..
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; six or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, four or more years of experience with a masters degree, or two or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
- Experience in mechanical test engineering principles, including planning, scheduling, and executing test programs to meet milestones, with demonstrated project leadership.
- Strong background in structural testing methodologies: static, fatigue, vibration, and combined loading.
- Experience with environmental testing to aerospace and military standards (MIL-STD-810, RTCA/DO-160, or similar)
- Knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, actuators, and high-load test systems.
- Proficient with test equipment such as hydraulic frames, electrodynamic shakers, environmental chambers, and control systems.
- Knowledge of materials testing and characterization techniques.
- Proficiency in engineering analysis, including hand calculations and finite element analysis (ANSYS, NASTRAN, or similar)
- Experience analyzing test data, correlating with analytical models, and reporting results.
- Strong communication and presentation skills; effective cross-functional collaboration with customers and regulators.
- Provides technical leadership and serves as a primary point of contact on test programs.
- Customer-focused with ability to develop innovative test plans for complex engineering challenges.
- Works effectively both independently and in team settings.
- Flexible to support extended hours as needed.
- Knowledge of safety protocols and regulatory compliance for complex test operations.
- Ability to obtain and maintain DoD Security clearance is required.