Airframe Project Engineer - Production - Engineer III
General Atomics
Poway, CA · Posted October 22, 2026
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About the job
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. This position within the Airframe Project Engineering Team supports MQ-1C Gray Eagle and Mojave STOL production and integration activities. The role will focus on resolving manufacturing and aircraft-integration engineering issues, supporting production operations, and coordinating implementation of engineering changes. This is a multi-faceted position requiring collaboration with a broad range of technical disciplines and stakeholders throughout the project life cycle. The position will interface with multiple engineering disciplines, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, suppliers, and field service organizations to resolve complex technical issues, improve processes, support aircraft builds, and develop corrective actions. Under general supervision with limited review, this position is responsible for determining and developing effective approaches for resolving a wide range of challenging engineering problems. Assignments are normally outlined in terms of overall objectives and anticipated results. Work is reviewed at milestones or at completion for adequacy in meeting objectives. Documents findings, communicates results to engineering staff, and makes technical presentations as required. May coordinate segments of a specific project and may have frequent inter-organization, supplier, and customer contact on difficult technical issues. Provides direction to design or technical staff and may provide direction to less experienced professional staff. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Supports operation of engineering systems by evaluating and interpreting manufacturing, integration, and production needs and problems and develops effective approaches to resolving those issues. Troubleshoots, analyzes, and resolves airframe, aerostructure, mechanical-system, installation, and integration issues in assigned areas by utilizing standard engineering and scientific principles. Works with Manufacturing and Integration to resolve engineering issues and support aircraft builds for MQ-1C Gray Eagle and Mojave STOL platforms. Leads cross-functional issue-resolution efforts with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, suppliers, and functional engineering groups to resolve complex production and integration issues. Performs and coordinates root-cause analyses and corrective actions to address production and integration issues, improve processes, and prevent recurrence. Coordinates and monitors engineering issue resolution and design-development activities through regular presence in manufacturing shops, aircraft-integration areas, Quality Assurance, Manufacturing Engineering, and functional engineering groups. Supports the planning and coordination of engineering changes, including configuration impacts, cut-in plans, production incorporation, and fielding activities. Coordinates with suppliers, as required, to resolve technical issues affecting airframe components, assemblies, installations, production schedules, or quality. Plans and coordinates the maintenance of engineering solutions, including documentation, issue tracking, reporting, and technical presentations, in accordance with established processes. Delivers technical presentations to assess and communicate the viability of proposed solutions in an evolving environment. Supports engineering estimates and proposals in response to customer and program management direction. Directs the activities of designers, technicians and may direct the activities of less experienced professional staff. May represent the organization in providing solutions to technical issues associated with specific projects. Maintains strict confidentiality of sensitive information. Performs other duties as assigned. Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices. We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.