Senior Staff Engineer - Mission Analysis; Fighter Pilot Security Clearance

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. GA-ASI, a leader in advanced unmanned aircraft systems and integrated mission technologies, seeks a highly experienced Senior Staff Engineer on the Mission Analysis team in Poway, CA. This position is tailored for a former F-22 or F-35 fighter pilot with significant operational experience who will apply their expertise to concept development, operational planning, modeling and simulation, and strategic mission design.

The ideal candidate will leverage real-world fighter pilot experience to guide the development of advanced mission architectures and future operational concepts, ensuring GA-ASI's technologies remain at the forefront of defense innovation.

• Mission Analysis & Strategic Planning
• 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.
• Modeling, Simulation, and Wargaming
• 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.
• Operational Support & Doctrine Development
• 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.
• Leadership & Communication
• 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.

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

• Typically requires a bachelor’s degree, master’s 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 bachelor’s degree, thirteen or more years of experience with a master’s 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…