Senior Staff Engineer - Mission Analysis; Fighter Pilot Security Clearance

Position: Senior Staff Engineer - Mission Analysis (Fighter Pilot) with Security Clearance
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. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a leader in advanced unmanned aircraft systems and integrated mission technologies, is seeking a highly experienced and technically adept Senior Staff Engineer to join our Mission Analysis team in Poway, CA.

This position is tailored for a former F-22 or F-35 fighter pilot with significant operational experience who will apply their expertise to concept development, operational planning, modeling and simulation, and strategic mission design. The ideal candidate will leverage their real-world fighter pilot experience to guide the development of advanced mission architectures and future operational concepts, ensuring GA-ASI's technologies remain at the forefront of defense innovation.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Mission Analysis & Strategic Planning

* Lead mission analysis efforts by evaluating operational requirements, constraints, risk factors, and stakeholder guidance to develop actionable recommendations.

* Translate fighter pilot expertise into formal operational planning artifacts, including mission statements, OV-1's, and ConOPS

* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure mission analysis insights inform system design and development.

* Modeling, Simulation, and Wargaming

* Assist in the design, execution, and analysis of war games and simulations that explore advanced tactics, techniques, procedures (TTP), and future operational concepts.

* Develop scenario-based simulations reflecting adversary capabilities, emerging threat systems, and realistic contested environments.

* Utilize advanced modeling tools (e.g., AFSIM and Command Professional Edition) and data analytics platforms to interpret results and provide actionable insights.

* Systems Engineering & Mission Planning Tools

* Provide Subject Matter Expert (SME) support for mission planning tools, sensor specifications, and planning relevant to F-22 and F-35 operations.

* Collaborate with systems engineers and software developers to ensure mission planning systems meet operational needs and integrate seamlessly with advanced unmanned platforms.

* Troubleshoot and validate mission data and system integrations to optimize operational performance.

* Operational Support & Doctrine Development

* Use operational experience to refine or develop TTPs for employing advanced unmanned aircraft in contested environments.

* Contribute to the development of ConOPS documents that shape future mission analysis planning.

* Mentor and train less experienced analysts, ensuring tactical knowledge is translated into structured analysis and actionable recommendations.

* Leadership & Communication

* Serve as a spokesperson and technical expert on mission analysis projects and programs, representing GA-ASI to senior internal and external stakeholders.

* Develop and deliver high-impact briefings, reports, and white papers that summarize findings and influence strategic decisions.

* Provide leadership and guidance to professional staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.

* Continuous Improvement

* Identify opportunities to improve mission analysis processes, simulation workflows, and operational planning methodologies.

* Incorporate lessons learned from exercises, operations, and debriefs to refine models and enhance mission planning capabilities.

* Stay current on emerging threat systems, military doctrine, and technology trends to ensure GA-ASI maintains its competitive edge.

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; fifteen or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, thirteen or more years of experience with a masters…