Laser Communication Systems Manufacturing Engineer
San Diego, California
Overview
General Atomics pioneers technologies with the potential to change the world. Behind a talented global team of engineers, GA delivers safe, sustainable, and economical solutions to meet growing global demands. Our Engineers have an opportunity to work on first of a kind product lines within an incredible, dynamic environment.
Engineering positions typically require a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience. Candidates from mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering backgrounds must know the fundamentals of engineering system developments, requirements, testing, and integration before getting to the final stages of customer interface and project management.
Schedule: Full-Time Salary
Job Level: Senior (8+ years)
Travel: 0 - 25
Success Profile
What makes a successful Laser Communication Systems Manufacturing Engineer at General Atomics? Check out the top traits we’re looking for and see if you have the right mix.
- Analytical
- Collaborative
- Inventive
- Problem Solver
- Team Player
- Creative
Job Summary General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS’ expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Laser Communication Systems Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in San Diego!
With limited direction, this position supports the manufacturing production process with focus on the design, development, and implementation of new or revised production processes for the efficient and economical fabrication of parts, components, sub-assemblies, and final assemblies.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Oversee and manage the manufacturing and assembly processes of laser communication systems, including optical components, modulators, detectors, and related subsystems.
- Coordinate the assembly, alignment, and integration of laser communication systems, ensuring functionality across thermal, mechanical, and optical requirements.
- Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to meet the high precision and reliability requirements of laser communications. To include the design, implementation, and improvement of manufacturing tools, fixtures, and equipment used in the production of laser communication components and systems.
- Provide regular status reports on manufacturing progress, identifying risks or delays to ensure timely project completion.
- Coordinate with external vendors and suppliers for the procurement of critical components such as laser diodes, photodetectors, optics to meet technical requirements.
- Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including assembly instructions, process flow diagrams, and standard operating procedures. Interfaces and collaborates with design engineering in coordinating the release of new products.
- Collaborate with R&D, design, and quality assurance teams to ensure smooth transitions from prototype to production with best utilization of equipment and manufacturing techniques.
- Estimates manufacturing cost, determines time standards, and makes recommendations for tooling and process requirements of new or existing product lines.
- Ensures that production processes and procedures are in compliance with regulations.
- Maintains records and reporting systems for coordination of manufacturing operations.
- Develops appropriate documentation of findings and implemented solutions and communicates results to staff.
- May be required to make technical presentations to staff.
- May provide direction to less experienced professionals, design staff or technicians.
- Maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Responsible for observing 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.
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 in engineering or a related technical field as well as nine or more years of manufacturing engineering experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
- Experience within the Optical or Laser Communication field (5 or more years) is highly desired.
- Proven experience in the manufacturing and assembly of laser communication systems or similar high-tech optical/electronic systems with in-depth knowledge of laser technology, optical communication systems, and photonics.
- Demonstrates an extensive technical expertise and application of manufacturing engineering principles, concepts, theory, and practice with the ability to organize, plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones with some experience in project leadership.
- Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.
- Customer focused, formulates plans based on the development of innovative new designs in resolving extremely complex manufacturing engineering problems.
- Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required 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.
- Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment.
- Able to work extended hours as required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain TS-SCI level clearance is required.
- Familiarity with and ability to work in a cleanroom or controlled manufacturing environment.
Salary:$98,100 - $171,398
Benefits
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Healthcare
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Pension, 401(k)/Retirement Plans
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Competitive Pay
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Multiple product lines means a variety of work
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Paid Time Off

“The company is growing, has a very good reputation and had open positions in my area of expertise (aircraft design/design methodology development).”– Peter, Senior Staff Engineer

“We don't ascribe to quotas; we do ascribe to securing the BEST talent to enrich our culture toward healthy diversification and active/viable community service. We are STEM advocates.”– Debra, CSSBB: Staff Engineer

“Every day is different, with different problems to solve and many programs to support. I am a problem solver and have always been motivated by the tough questions.”– Scott, Laser Scientist

“I work in the Components Engineering and Obsolescence Management Dept. Our efforts are saving General Atomics several millions of dollars by proactively leading and informing the company of all these decisions which significantly impact production, sustainment and new designs.”– John, Staff Engineer
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