Senior Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

Senior Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

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

This position provides a unique opportunity to work across the entire cycle of a Flight Test Instrumentation project – 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 will support hardware/software design, video, air and ground system telemetry, and engine test stands. The role requires heavy travel, at least 25% of the time, to support flight test operations at various locations.

• 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 appropriate selection and location of flight test instrumentation and integrate hardware into unmanned air vehicles.
• Collaborate with technicians, engineers, and project engineers to ensure successful execution of flight test objectives.
• Work closely with SME’s on building and designing analysis windows and displays.
• Create system‑level troubleshooting guides and fault isolation diagrams for AV and ground support systems.
• Extract, convert, and upload data.
• Process, analyze, and report flight test data, including the preparation of technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Observe all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

• Bachelor's degree, Master’s degree, or Ph.D. in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution; 4+ years of experience with a bachelor's or 2+ years with a master's. Equivalent engineering experience may be substituted.
• Electrical or Computer Engineering degree highly preferred.
• Experience in flight test instrumentation engineering, including test planning, execution, and data analysis.
• Strong preference for experience using Safran/KAM instrumentation systems.
• Experience with applied instrumentation (strain gauges, load cells, 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 (IADS & MATLAB) desirable.
• Proficiency in LabVIEW, Python, or other programming languages.
• Proficiency in cable CAD tools (e.g., Zuken E3) and bus communication protocols (Serial, 1553, ARINC, CAN, Ethernet).
• Understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and theory with technical experience ensuring safety and regulatory compliance; basic RF theory a plus.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with engineering teams, flight test personnel, and customers.
• Ability to work 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.
• Customer‑focused, detail‑oriented, and capable of resolving advanced technical problems.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, high‑quality work.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Willingness and ability to travel at least 25% of the time and work extended hours as needed.
• Previous experience in aerospace, defense, or related industry highly desirable.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Job type:
Full‑time
Salary range: $81,080 – $141,650

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