System Development and Test Engineering Manager

Job Summary

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 are seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to lead our MQ‑9 Weapons and Payloads System Development and Test organization in Poway, CA. This critical leadership role will oversee multiple test supervisors and their teams, ensuring the successful planning, execution, and delivery of comprehensive system‑level testing for the MQ‑9 platform. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise in system test methodologies combined with proven leadership capabilities to drive test rigor across complex unmanned aircraft systems. Extensive experience with weapons and payload integration testing is required.

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

Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Manage and mentor multiple test supervisors, each leading their own teams of test engineers
• Provide strategic direction for system test activities across the MQ‑9 program
• Foster a culture of technical excellence, continuous improvement, and collaboration
• Conduct performance evaluations, career development planning, and succession planning for supervisory staff
• Allocate resources effectively across multiple concurrent test programs and priorities
• Build and maintain high‑performing teams through recruitment, training, and professional development

Technical Oversight

• Oversee the development and execution of comprehensive system test plans, procedures, and reports
• Ensure test activities align with program requirements, schedules, and quality standards
• Review and approve test strategy documents and program test roadmaps
• Drive resolution of complex technical issues identified during system testing

Program Integration

• Collaborate with Engineering, Program Management, and Flight Operations
• Participate in program reviews, technical interchange meetings, and customer engagements
• Support proposal development and provide test planning inputs for new business opportunities
• Manage test schedules and coordinate with cross‑functional teams to meet program milestones
• Interface with government customers and regulatory agencies as required

Process & Infrastructure

• Establish and maintain test processes, standards, and best practices
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance test efficiency and effectiveness
• Ensure proper documentation and configuration management of test assets and data
• Implement metrics and reporting systems to track test progress and performance

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a Bachelors, Masters or PhD in engineering or a related technical field as well as eleven or more years of progressively complex engineering experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in a management or supervisory role leading test teams.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering test programs on schedule and within budget.
• Experience with unmanned aircraft systems, avionics, or flight test operations.

Technical Skills

• Deep understanding of system test methodologies, including requirements verification, integration testing, and validation.
• Familiarity with airworthiness certification processes and regulatory requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with ability to resolve complex technical challenges.
• Proficiency with test management tools and documentation systems.
• Previous experience with weapons systems is required. (e.g., AGM‑114/179, GBU‑12/38/39/48/49/54/69)

Leadership Competencies

• Excellent communication skills with ability to effectively engage at all organizational levels.
• Strong organizational and project management capabilities.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Experience building consensus and driving results across cross‑functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to develop talent and build organizational capability.

Clearance

• Ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering or related technical field.
• Experience with MQ‑9A and MQ‑9B platforms.
• Knowledge of military standards and specifications. (MIL‑STD‑1553, MIL‑STD‑461, etc.)
• Experience supporting international programs and customers.
• Background in flight test operations or airworthiness certification.

Job Type

• Full‑Time

Salary

• Salary range: 125,810 – 229,670