General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc

Aircraft IPT Lead - Advanced Uncrewed Aircraft Systems

Poway, CA 92064In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
15+ years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in engineering or related field with extensive experience (13-18+ years)
  • Expertise in aircraft subsystems like aerostructures, propulsion, avionics, etc.
  • Proven skills in organizing and leading complex engineering projects
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration
  • Ability to adapt quickly to new concepts and work autonomously or in teams
  • Willingness to work extended hours and travel as necessary
  • DoD Security Clearance eligibility required

Responsibilities

  • Lead cross-functional teams for system-level design and integration of aircraft subsystems
  • Oversee engineering team's work for technical accuracy and program alignment
  • Plan and schedule projects, monitoring timelines and deliverables
  • Devise long-term solutions ensuring compliance with safety and engineering standards
  • Evaluate subsystem integration within overall aircraft design
  • Provide technical guidance and establish accountability for team milestones
  • Communicate expectations and drive continuous improvement in project performance
  • Represent the company in technical matters with external stakeholders
  • Participate in or lead design reviews, presenting technical recommendations
  • Document findings and communicate results to teams

Benefits

  • Diverse and inclusive work environment
  • Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
  • Engagement in high-impact advanced aircraft programs
  • Collaborative work culture with cross-functional teams
  • Potential for travel and exposure to advanced technologies
Full Job Description
Job Summary

We have an exciting opportunity for several Aircraft Integrated Product Team (IPT) Leads supporting one of our Advanced Aircraft Programs. In this high-impact role, you will lead cross-functional teams responsible for the system-level design and integration of multiple aircraft subsystems on a new unmanned aircraft variant currently in development. Major areas of development span aerostructures, mechanical actuation, landing gear systems, propulsion, fuel and oil systems, electrical power, and avionics, and we are seeking subject-matter experts who can drive technical excellence across these domains. Under general direction with limited review, you will apply innovative approaches to resolve unusual or complex engineering problems, exercising considerable latitude in determining technical objectives and solutions.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Serve as Aircraft IPT Lead for one or more major subsystems (e.g., aerostructures, propulsion, fuel and oil, landing gear, mechanical actuation, electrical power, avionics), coordinating system-level design and integration activities for a new unmanned aircraft variant.
  • Supervise and direct the work of engineers and designers; oversee their output for consistency, technical accuracy, and alignment with program objectives.
  • Plan and schedule work assignments for the IPT; monitor project schedules, timelines, and deliverables using standard project management tools and engineering systems.
  • Formulate plans-typically long term-for solution development, documentation, and deployment, ensuring compliance with applicable reporting, safety, and engineering standards.
  • Evaluate integration of subsystem solutions within the overall aircraft engineering environment; ensure appropriate documentation, testing, maintenance, and engineering updates are completed.
  • Provide technical guidance to team members; review the accuracy and completeness of assignments and define individual accountability and milestones to meet project objectives.
  • Communicate performance expectations, identify and resolve problems encountered by the team, and drive continuous improvement in technical and execution performance.
  • Represent the company as a prime technical contact on contracts and/or projects; interact with senior external personnel on technical matters requiring coordination between organizations.
  • Participate in or lead internal and customer design reviews, presenting technical content and recommendations on system and subsystem architectures for current and emerging programs.
  • Document findings, communicate results to engineering staff, and make technical presentations as required.
  • Maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information and observe all applicable laws, regulations, and company obligations.
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; eighteen or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, sixteen or more years of experience with a masters degree, or thirteen or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Demonstrated detailed and extensive technical expertise in one or more aircraft subsystems such as:
    • Aerostructures
    • Mechanical actuation
    • Landing gear systems
    • Propulsion (e.g., turbine engines, propellers, propulsion control systems)
    • Fuel and oil systems
    • Electrical power
    • Avionics and vehicle management systems
  • Proven ability to organize, plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate complex engineering workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones, with experience in project or technical leadership.
  • Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to effectively interface with other departments, customers, government representatives, and professionals.
  • Ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately in an evolving environment; able to work on a self-initiated basis or in a team environment.
  • Must be able to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DoD Security Clearance is required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience as an IPT Lead, Sub-IPT Lead, or technical lead on complex aerospace or defense development programs.
  • Experience coordinating system-level design of mechanical and avionics systems for uncrewed or remotely piloted aircraft.
  • Background in advanced or conceptual aircraft programs, including integration of multiple subsystems into a cohesive aircraft solution.
  • Experience participating in or leading design reviews with internal teams and external customers.
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop engineering staff.

About General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a leading designer and manufacturer of remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike capabilities. The company is headquartered in Poway, California, and has additional offices and facilities around the world.
Learn more about General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc
Size
14,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1955

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