Chief Engineer Optical Space Payloads

Chief Engineer Optical Space Payloads

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first‑of‑a‑kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA‑EMS’ expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions supports critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

General Atomics is looking for a Chief Engineer for Space EO/IR Payload efforts within our Optical Sensor System Group in Acton, MA. The Chief Engineer is responsible for the technical strategy and technical execution of space payload programs and IRAD, covering all phases of development from pre‑award concept development through design, testing, verification, production support, and on‑orbit operations.

• Application of electro‑optical and infrared remote sensing system knowledge to develop and refine space payload system architectures for weather, earth science, missile defense, ISR, or other space sensing missions
• Provide technical direction for all activities associated with the development, engineering, interfacing, integration, and testing of EO/IR Payload systems with complex hardware/software attributes
• Support payload concept development, system architecture development, system and subsystem requirements development, systems analysis and trade studies, and systems modeling and simulation
• Organize and review technical efforts, documentation, and deliverables on payload contracts in conjunction with program management staff
• Serve as technical authority for the program internally and main technical payload point of contact for the customer/stakeholders
• Provide guidance on program risks and opportunities
• Responsible for program technical issue resolution, ensuring root cause is identified and corrective actions are executed
• Provide mentorship to develop lower‑level engineering staff into future SMEs

• Bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or Ph.D. in engineering or a related technical discipline (require minimum 18 years of experience with a bachelor’s, 16 years with a master’s, 13 years with a Ph.D.; equivalent experience may substitute education)
• Experience leading the design, performance analysis, assembly, test, and operation of EO/IR space payloads
• Strong multi‑disciplinary technical breadth in Space Systems and Ground Test Domain
• Specialized experience including the use of structured analysis, design methodologies and/or design tools in the development and implementation of large projects and experience leading EO/IR sensor assembly, integration, and test teams
• Creative problem solver with broad technical management and team development experience encompassing electro‑optical multispectral and hyperspectral imaging sensors for space applications, visible and infrared focal plane array technology, process and system development, failure and reliability engineering, risk analysis and management
• Able to present results and communicate with customers and senior management
• Active DoD security clearance required

Location:

Acton, MA
Job Type: Full‑Time
Salary Range: $140,940 – $252,293

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.