Survivability Materials and Process Engineer

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 a Materials and Process Engineer to support our composites manufacturing facilities in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will have the opportunity to interface with a variety of specialized engineers to help build advanced aircraft. Certain aircraft are at various stages so this role would allow you to support work in conducting research into and development of innovative processing and fabrication techniques in the application of advanced composite materials, testing, providing technical support, and guidance to lay-up, bonding personnel, and field support .

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement materials and processes that minimize radar, infrared, and visual signatures of products.
• Conduct research and analysis to identify and evaluate new materials and technologies for low observables applications.
• Create test plans and coordinate fabrication and testing related to coupon testing in support of material properties generation.
• Support material selection and application for LO-critical features.
• Partner with manufacturing and quality teams to develop RM&S plans.
• Provide engineering guidance for repairs, rework, and sustainment of LO features.
• Ensure LO features meet export control, security, and configuration-control requirements.
• Participate in design reviews, technical reviews, and cross-functional coordination.
• Provide technical direction to junior LO engineers and cross-discipline teams.
• Communicate complex LO technical concepts to program management and customers.
• Support the development of advanced composite hardware and vehicle designs.
• Develop material and process specifications through collaboration with Manufacturing and Vendors to guide engineers in selecting appropriate materials by drawing from military standards, industry standards and material engineering experience.
• Support manufacturing with materials related failure investigations to determine root cause and corrective actions by the inspection, analysis and testing of parts.
• Support Continuous Improvement initiatives and provide support to sustaining manufacturing of production hardware to improve the quality and reduce cost of production.
• Maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

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 degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• 6+ years of experience in Low Observables, Survivability Engineering, or Advanced Signature Technologies.
• Must have a complete understanding of engineering concepts, principles, codes, and theory; experience demonstrating a broad application of those concepts; and, expanding knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties.
• Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly; apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment; organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases; and, determine the appropriate approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex problems.
• Must have strong written and oral communications skills.
• Must be a strong team player with leadership potential qualities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; able to perform complex tasks in one or more engineering areas; capable of representing the organization as a prime technical contact.
• Hands-on experience integrating LO features into airframe or subsystems
• Strong understanding of RCS theory, electromagnetic scattering, and IR signature fundamentals.
• Experience with LO testing, RCS ranges, IR test setups, and data analysis.
• Prior experience in an aerospace manufacturing environment.
• Ability to contribute to the development of new concepts and principles.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security clearance is required.

Highly Desired:

• Experience developing and fabricating composite structures with an emphasis on low observable materials and structures.
• Experience with selection and application of specialty coatings in manufacturing environment
• Experience in developing and executing manufacturing plans.
• Demonstrated technical expertise and application of engineering principles, concepts, theory, and practice in a relevant industry and product.