Structural Test Engineering Manager

Are you ready to take your career to new heights? General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a global leader in cutting-edge remotely piloted aircraft, tactical reconnaissance radars, and advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. Our groundbreaking technologies redefine what's possible in aviation and defense.

We are seeking a dynamic leader to head GA-ASI's Structural Test team, a group at the forefront of innovation, fast-paced and hands-on with the latest products. In this role, you will oversee structural testing for the industry's newest airframes and associated systems, including MQ-9B, XQ-67A, YFQ-42A (CCA), and other advanced designs. Your leadership and expertise will play a critical role in shaping the future of aerospace technology and ensuring mission-ready performance for those who serve.

This position typically reports to a technical manager and is responsible for the planning, managing and technical performance of an engineering unit. Manages all phases of assigned engineering project(s) from inception through completion. Participates with technical staff, program managers and/or Division/Group executive management to develop and implement current, annual and long-term technical, schedule, quality, business and financial objectives for the unit.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead activities for engineering project(s) including planning and managing technical performance to ensure quality, business, and financial objectives are attained.
• Reviews engineering designs, plans, analysis, and other technical work for accuracy and conformance to project requirements.
• Support the Structural Test team with test planning, fixture design, analysis, execution, and reporting for airframe and airframe components as required.
• Troubleshoot conflicting design/development requirements, difficult coordination requirements, and special material requirements.
• Provides direction to design or technical staff, leading a team of experienced professional staff.
• Ensure technical leadership and excellence is maintained by participating in the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.
• Lead progress review sessions to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Identify engineering issues and provide leadership in developing solutions such as re-allocation of resources or modifying contract specifications.
• May participate in the development of new business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities.
• Responsible for ensuring all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations are observed wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Responsible for ensuring work is accomplished in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Additional Functions: Other duties as assigned or required.

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, Masters or PhD in engineering or a related technical field as well as nine or more years of progressively complex engineering experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Demonstrates knowledge in the application of engineering principles, concepts, and theory. Strong familiarity with statics, including the development and evaluation of free body diagrams, shear/moment/torsion plots, and stress calculations. Familiarity with sensors such as strain gages, load cells, and data acquisition methods. Experience with the design and analysis of test fixtures preferred.
• Demonstrates project management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones.
• Must possess the ability to resolve management and technical problems.
• Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
• Customer focused, must be able to work on a self-initiated basis and in a team environment, and able to work extended hours and travel as required.
• A Professional Engineering License, and original work(s) published in professional engineering journals are desirable.