Senior Staff Engineer – Mission Analysis; Fighter Pilot

Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) – a world leader in advanced unmanned aircraft systems and integrated mission technologies – seeks a highly experienced and technically adept Senior Staff Engineer for its Mission Analysis team in Poway, CA. The position is tailored for a former F‑22 or F‑35 fighter pilot with significant operational experience who will translate real‑world expertise into concept development, operational planning, modeling and simulation, and strategic mission design.

• 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, and 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 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.

• Typically requires a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience: fifteen or more years with a bachelor’s, thirteen or more years with a master’s, or ten or more years with a PhD. Equivalent engineering experience may substitute for education.
• Former F‑22 or F‑35 fighter pilot with significant operational experience (combat, training, or squadron operations).
• Demonstrated expertise in fighter tactics, sensor employment, mission planning, and weapons integration.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including briefings to senior leadership.
• Proven analytical skills in mission planning, risk assessment, operational design, and wargaming.
• Experience working in cross‑functional teams (e.g., intelligence, systems engineering, operations).
• Preferred Experience:
  • Familiarity with mission planning tools or mission support systems.
  • Experience with modeling/simulation platforms (e.g., AFSIM, STK, or custom tools).
  • Proficiency in data analytics tools or scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, etc.).
  • Prior experience contributing to wargaming, concept development, or future operational environments.
  • Prior experience with model‑based systems engineering (MBSE) integration relevant to Mission Engineering, Mission Analysis, and Mission Engineering Threads (MET).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Top Secret clearance (SCI preferred).

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

Job Type: Full‑Time Salary Salary range: $128,130 – $229,358