Flight Controls Tools and Software Engineer
General Atomics
Poway, CA · Posted November 2, 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. We have an exciting opportunity for an early-career aerospace/software engineer to develop analysis tools & methodologies for flight-controls, guidance, and navigation systems. We’re looking for someone who enjoys both software development and controls analysis to contribute code, processes, and tests that will facilitate simulation and analysis for a large user base. Your work and innovations can span the entire lifecycle of aircraft development -- from conceptual design through flight testing and field support. This position is within the Flight Technologies department of GA-ASI in Poway, CA, in San Diego County. The Flight Technologies department is a growing technical organization focusing on many aspects of flight sciences; the Tools & Support group supports all disciplines within Flight Technologies. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Design and execute controls-related software development under guidance from senior engineers. Software examples may include: tools to translate aerodynamic and mass models into Simulink and run six-degree-of-freedom (6-DoF) simulations scripts which automate and scale Monte Carlo analysis to parallel computing visualizations scraping a database to compare simulated vs. test-logged data statistical analysis of controller errors to evaluate mission performance. Learn, apply, and recommend improvements for existing controls-analysis tools and workflows. Participate in software-development sprints with buy-in from technical experts and peer developers. Contribute to efficiency enhancements in controls-analysis frameworks. Apply industry-standard practices for building models, storing and transferring data including use of version-control systems, and testing software. Support configuration management and interface control of aero- and flight-controls-related artifacts. Prepare and present reports, code reviews, and other technical documentation to stakeholders across disciplines such as software, test, and systems engineering. Occasional travel to support wind-tunnels tests, flight-test campaigns, customer site visits, and conferences. Build and retain foundational capability to perform flight-controls analysis such as of aircraft stability and flying qualities. We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.