Senior Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

Senior Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

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

Additional projects include hardware/software design, telemetry, and engine test stands. The position requires heavy travel, at least 25% of the time.

• 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 for unmanned air vehicles.
• Configure, operate, and troubleshoot flight test instrumentation systems, focusing on Safran/ACRA/Curtiss‑Wright data acquisition systems.
• Support installation, test, and sustainment of flight test hardware and software at multiple GA locations.
• Work with subject matter experts on the selection and placement of flight test instrumentation and the integration of flight test hardware into unmanned air vehicles.
• Collaborate with technicians, engineers, and project engineers to ensure successful execution of flight test objectives.
• Work closely with SMEs on build and design of analysis windows and displays.
• Develop 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 obligations whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Work safely in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

• Bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in engineering or related technical discipline; 4+ years of experience with a bachelor’s degree or 2+ years with a master’s (or equivalent experience).
• Strong preference for Electrical or Computer Engineering degree.
• Experience in flight test instrumentation engineering, including test planning, execution, and data analysis.
• Experience with Safran/ACRA/KAM instrumentation systems.
• Applied instrumentation experience (strain gauges, load cells, accelerometers).
• Systems engineering processes knowledge (requirements verification/validation).
• Ability to interpret and apply engineering drawings, specifications, and technical data.
• Proficiency in data processing and analysis tools (IADS, MATLAB).
• Proficiency in LabVIEW, Python, or other programming languages.
• Proficiency in cable CAD tools such as Zuken E3.
• Experience with bus communication protocols and standards (Serial, 1553, ARINC, CAN, Ethernet).
• Understanding of engineering principles and theory; basic RF theory desirable.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Organizational skill to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
• Customer‑focused, detail‑oriented, capable of resolving advanced technical problems.
• Microsoft Office proficiency.
• Willingness to travel at least 25% of the time and work extended hours as needed.
• Preferred: experience in aerospace, defense, or related industry.
• 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.