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Airframe & Powerplant Specialist

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Salary
Palmdale, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 6/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/8/2026
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 have an exciting opportunity for an A&P Mechanic supporting Production Manufacturing at our facilities located at either Gray Butte (Palmdale) or El Mirage (Adelanto) in sunny Southern California.

In this role you will be working on cutting-edge technology, utilizing your experience to support the manufacturing and assembly of new aircraft systems, integrating advanced capabilities into airborne sensing and weapons systems, and ensuring quality production of customer platforms including MQ-1C Gray Eagle, MQ-9A Reaper, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian, SeaGuardian, and Protector systems.

Responsible for production-level activities across the entire Unmanned Aircraft System, you will be assembling, modifying, and configuring aircraft and ground control stations to meet customer specifications and production requirements, executing functional ground tests, and supporting acceptance test activities. This includes production flightline activities such as preflight inspections, launch and recovery operations, and postflight verification.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The successful candidate will assemble, troubleshoot, repair, inspect, and maintain aircraft and ground support equipment in support of production manufacturing and delivery activities in accordance with manufacturing work instructions and maintenance documentation.

  • Support production teams in meeting manufacturing schedules and quality standards.
  • Perform work on airframe and powerplant during production assembly and final acceptance activities.
  • Troubleshoot aircraft and engine systems during production testing to identify and resolve issues prior to customer delivery.
  • Develop and review manufacturing processes and procedures to improve efficiency and quality.
  • Assist in training efforts for production personnel and customers.
  • Perform scheduled production inspections and functional checks.
  • Inspect powerplant and related components during assembly and at key production milestones, adhering to company approved procedures, manufacturing work instructions, and/or government technical order requirements.
  • Review records to ensure all required documentation is completed in accordance with established company procedures and customer technical order requirements.
  • Perform all launch and recovery tasks of aircraft during production acceptance flights, including ground operations, pre and postflight items, ground observer responsibilities, and inspect, test, maintain and operate ground support equipment.
  • Expected to maintain a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and manufacturing best practices.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.


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 high school diploma or equivalent.
  • An FAA Airframe and Powerplant License is desired.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DOD SEC clearance is required.
  • Must possess:
    • General knowledge and understanding of the detailed aspects of the job;
    • Knowledge of relevant computer applications and operations;
    • Basic leadership, organization and planning skills;
  • Good analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately document, report and assess situations and make judgments.
  • The ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential.
  • The ability to work any shift and additional hours as required.

Job Type: Full-Time Hourly

Salary range: 48,160 - 71,598

Salary.com Estimation for Airframe & Powerplant Specialist in Palmdale, CA
$69,957 to $92,820
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