Senior Staff Engineer Mission and Operations Analysis

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) develops and delivers advanced unmanned aircraft systems and integrated mission technologies that support national security. We invite applications for an L8 Senior Staff Engineer who will serve as a recognized authority in one or more engineering fields. This individual will lead complex technical and conceptual initiatives in system-of-systems architectures and integrated kill chain solutions while also playing a key role in the strategic direction and technical leadership of the organization. This position is hands-on and technical within the Mission/Operations Analysis Advanced Concepts team, with limited management responsibility but significant influence and advisory capacity across the enterprise.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide technical leadership by conceptualizing and driving innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges, including the development of mission-level modeling and simulation strategies for integrated kill chain architectures across air, space, land, sea, and cyber domains.
• Oversee solution implementation by directing planning, ensuring simulation frameworks (e.g., AFSIM) accurately reflect operational requirements, and guiding analysis and concept development efforts.
• Represent GA-ASI as a national expert by delivering presentations, publishing technical papers, advising senior stakeholders on resource planning and progress reporting, and contributing to business strategies.
• Anticipate and address future engineering challenges by shaping strategic roadmaps, guiding acquisition decisions, and upholding rigorous compliance with security, regulatory, and confidentiality standards.
• Demonstrated deep expertise in system-of-systems modeling and mission-level analysis that includes platform mission system integration and trade study execution.
• Hands-on experience with simulation environments such as AFSIM or equivalent tools in support of integrated kill chain and end-to-end mission architecture analysis.
• Comprehensive knowledge of systems engineering principles, including digital twin, digital thread, and digital product definition.
• Proficient in SysML (Systems Modeling Language) and CAMEO.
• Proven ability to conceptualize complex technical problems, drive innovative solutions, and advise senior leadership effectively.
• Excellent technical communication skills, including experience preparing and delivering briefings, technical papers, and presentations to national audiences.
• Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience influencing acquisition decisions, technology roadmaps, or strategic engineering initiatives.
  • Familiarity with Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2), all-domain operations, or campaign-level analysis.
  • Experience integrating classified threat models or system performance data into simulation frameworks.
  • Prior experience supporting or working within TS/SCI and Special Access Programs (SAP).
  • Knowledge of Command Professional Edition and system optimization strategies.
  • Experience leading product development from pre-proposal (shaping) through tactical deployment; full product lifecycle exposure.
• Additional Requirements
  • Interact confidently with senior internal and external personnel on technical matters requiring multi-organizational coordination.
  • Function as both a technical expert and spokesperson for GA-ASI, contributing to efforts in attracting and retaining top engineering talent and business.

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

Job Qualifications

• Must hold a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Engineering (or a related technical discipline) from an accredited institution with progressive engineering experience as follows: 18+ years with a Bachelor's, 16+ years with a Master's, or 13+ years with a Ph.D. (Equivalent engineering experience may substitute for formal education.)
• Must be a nationally recognized expert in one or more engineering fields, evidenced by original publications in professional engineering journals, invited presentations at national symposiums, participation as Chair on national engineering panels, and/or engineering patents held.
• Demonstrated leadership record in resolving highly technical, complex engineering problems and a key contributor to attracting and retaining engineering business and professional staff.
• Proven ability to guide resolution of complex technical challenges, champion innovative concepts, and serve as an expert spokesperson.
• Comprehensive knowledge of systems engineering principles-including digital twin, digital thread, digital product definition-as well as proficiency in SysML and CAMEO.
• Hands-on experience with simulation environments (e.g., AFSIM or equivalent) supporting integrated kill chain and mission-level architecture analysis.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with a customer-focused mindset, capable of working independently or collaboratively in team environments.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required.
• Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in influencing acquisition decisions, technology roadmaps, or strategic engineering initiatives.
  • Familiarity with Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2), all-domain operations, or campaign-level analysis.
  • Experience integrating classified threat models or system performance data into simulation frameworks.
  • Prior experience supporting or working within Special Access Programs (SAP).
  • Knowledge of Command Professional Edition and system optimization strategies.
  • Experience leading product development from pre-proposal through tactical deployment across the full product lifecycle.
• Additional Requirements
  • Interact confidently with senior internal and external personnel on technical matters requiring multi-organizational coordination.
  • Serve as a technical expert and spokesperson for GA-ASI, supporting business and talent acquisition efforts.