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General Atomics · 3 weeks ago

Senior Staff Engineer – Mission Analysis (Fighter Pilot)

Poway California

Full-time

Hybrid

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

10+ years exp

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a world leader in remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars. They are seeking a highly experienced Senior Staff Engineer to join their Mission Analysis team, focusing on concept development, operational planning, modeling, and simulation, specifically for former F-22 or F-35 fighter pilots.

EnergyEnergy EfficiencyManufacturingWireless

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Lead mission analysis efforts by evaluating operational requirements, constraints, risk factors, and stakeholder guidance to develop actionable recommendations

Translate fighter pilot expertise into formal operational planning artifacts, including mission statements, OV-1’s, and ConOPS

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure mission analysis insights inform system design and development

Assist in the design, execution, and analysis of war games and simulations that explore advanced tactics, techniques, procedures (TTP), and future operational concepts

Develop scenario-based simulations reflecting adversary capabilities, emerging threat systems, and realistic contested environments

Utilize advanced modeling tools (e.g., AFSIM and Command Professional Edition) and data analytics platforms to interpret results and provide actionable insights

Provide Subject Matter Expert (SME) support for mission planning tools, sensor specifications, and planning relevant to F-22 and F-35 operations

Collaborate with systems engineers and software developers to ensure mission planning systems meet operational needs and integrate seamlessly with advanced unmanned platforms

Troubleshoot and validate mission data and system integrations to optimize operational performance

Use operational experience to refine or develop TTPs for employing advanced unmanned aircraft in contested environments

Contribute to the development of ConOPS documents that shape future mission analysis planning

Mentor and train less experienced analysts, ensuring tactical knowledge is translated into structured analysis and actionable recommendations

Serve as a spokesperson and technical expert on mission analysis projects and programs, representing GA-ASI to senior internal and external stakeholders

Develop and deliver high-impact briefings, reports, and white papers that summarize findings and influence strategic decisions

Provide leadership and guidance to professional staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation

Identify opportunities to improve mission analysis processes, simulation workflows, and operational planning methodologies

Incorporate lessons learned from exercises, operations, and debriefs to refine models and enhance mission planning capabilities

Stay current on emerging threat systems, military doctrine, and technology trends to ensure GA-ASI maintains its competitive edge

Qualification

F-22F-35 experienceFighter tactics expertiseMission planningModelingSimulationData analytics toolsCross-functional teamworkAnalytical skillsContinuous improvementCommunicationLeadership

Required

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; fifteen or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, thirteen or more years of experience with a masters degree, or ten or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education

Former F-22 or F-35 fighter pilot with significant operational experience (combat, training, or squadron operations)

Demonstrated expertise in fighter tactics, sensor employment, mission planning, and weapons integration

Excellent written and oral communication skills, including briefings to senior leadership

Proven analytical skills in mission planning, risk assessment, operational design, and wargaming

Experience working in cross-functional teams (e.g., intelligence, systems engineering, operations)

Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Top Secret clearance (SCI preferred)

Preferred

Familiarity with mission planning tools or mission support systems

Experience with modeling/simulation platforms (e.g., AFSIM, STK, or custom tools)

Proficiency in data analytics tools or scripting languages (Python, MATLAB, etc.)

Prior experience contributing to wargaming, concept development, or future operational environments

Prior experience with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) integration relevant to Mission Engineering, Mission Analysis, and Mission Engineering Threads (MET)