Job Details

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. With limited direction, this position exercises considerable latitude for initiating and developing designs, procedures, techniques and solutions to resolving advanced technical engineering problems. Assignments are normally outlined in terms of broad specifications, objectives, possible results anticipated and critical reference points requiring special attention. The role guides the successful resolution of engineering problems, serves as a consulting resource of engineering knowledge, applies the latest technological advancements to the problem, and may function in a project leadership role. Documents findings, communicates results to engineering staff, makes technical presentations, and may represent the organization as the prime technical contact on small identifiable projects. The engineer provides directions to design or technical staff and may lead a team of moderately experienced professional staff.

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Tool Design Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be involved in the early stages of aircraft design, providing critical input to ensure manufacturability and efficient assembly. The candidate will be responsible for defining initial manufacturing processes and developing tooling solutions to support the production and integration of advanced unmanned aircraft systems. Proficiency with Siemens NX and CREO CAD software with surfacing experience is desirable. Our Tool Engineering team plays a critical role throughout the product lifecycle. From providing design for manufacturability and assembly (DFMA) input during aircraft design to defining initial manufacturing processes and developing tooling solutions, we ensure seamless transition from concept to production. We support every stage of production, including piece‑part manufacturing, structural assembly, aircraft integration, and flight operations. Ideal candidates possess a hands‑on approach, real‑world experience, and the ability to develop and implement practical and innovative solutions to technical challenges.

Why Join Us?

• Work on cutting‑edge unmanned aircraft systems that make a difference.
• Collaborate with a passionate and skilled team of engineers, technicians, and operators.
• Play a key role in shaping aircraft designs, processes, and tooling solutions from concept to production.
• Grow your expertise in aerospace manufacturing and tooling design using advanced technologies.
• Be part of a company that values innovation, hands‑on experience, and practical solutions.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop innovative but practical solutions to advanced technical problems in engineering.
• Provide focal point for technical communication within the company management and represent the company as the prime technical contact to customers and/or government regulatory agencies.
• Present reports at engineering meetings, participate in program reviews, and consult on problems.
• Provide expert guidance and consulting to other staff members working on difficult engineering problems.
• Anticipate future engineering needs and the modifications required to accomplish a technical goal.
• Address complex and difficult technical issues requiring novel and highly creative approaches drawing on advanced engineering concepts.
• Assume technical and engineering responsibility for the success of an identifiable project.
• Direct activities of design or technical staff and may lead a team of moderately experienced professional staff.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Observe all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the company.
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree, master's degree, or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience: nine or more years with a bachelor's degree, seven or more years with a master's degree, or four or more years with a PhD. Equivalent engineering experience may substitute for education.
• A Professional Engineering License, original work(s) published in professional engineering journals, and invited to present one or more original works to an engineering symposium are desirable.
• Demonstrates extensive technical expertise and application of engineering principles, concepts, theory, and practice; can organize, plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones with some experience in project leadership.
• Possesses the ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills enabling an effective interface with other departments and/or professionals, and capable of representing the organization as a prime technical contact, as well as providing leadership and guidance to less experienced professionals.
• Customer‑focused, formulates plans based on the development of innovative new designs in resolving advanced technical engineering problems.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance is required.
• Can work both independently and in a team environment.
• Able to work extended hours as required.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Siemens NX and CREO CAD packages for 3D modeling and drafting.
• Strong understanding of composite and metallic manufacturing processes, including lamination, machining, forming, additive manufacturing, bonding, and fastening.
• Functional understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) standards.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with lean manufacturing and process optimization.
• Knowledge of automation and robotics in aerospace manufacturing.
• Exposure to flight operations and aircraft integration processes.
• Experience with structural (FEM) analysis to validate tooling designs and assess performance under operational conditions.
• Experience with PLM Systems, preferably TeamCenter or Windchill.

Soft Skills

• Strong problem‑solving skills and a practical mindset.
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities across multidisciplinary teams.
• Detail‑oriented with a focus on quality and precision.

Job Type

Full‑time

Salary and Location

Salary range: $105,890 – $189,545 per year. Location: Solana Beach, CA.