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Staff Mission and Operations Modeling and Simulation Engineer

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Salary
Poway, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 8/18/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/4/2026
Job Summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leader in advanced unmanned aircraft systems, tactical sensors, and integrated technologies. We are seeking a L5- Staff Mission & Operations Modeling and Simulation Engineer to join our Agile Mission Systems (AMS) Engineering team in San Diego, CA. In this senior-level role, you will support the development and application of simulation tools to explore, validate, and enhance how advanced unmanned systems perform across multi-domain mission scenarios. Your work will transform innovative system concepts into validated, actionable designs that directly bolster real-world defense capabilities and exemplify technical leadership across the organization.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Build and run simulations using tools such as AFSIM and related platforms to model mission scenarios spanning air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains.
  • Translate system requirements and operational concepts into reusable models and simulation logic.
  • Analyze the performance of sensors, communications, weapons, and autonomous functions in realistic threat environments.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams across the organization to assess new capabilities, test ideas, and support decision-making through simulation-driven insights.
  • Develop and implement digital thread and digital twin strategies that integrate simulation with systems engineering processes.
  • Create, deliver, and refine comprehensive reports, visualizations, and presentations for both technical and non-technical stakeholders, with a strong emphasis on high-impact presentation skills.
  • Contribute to research initiatives, proposal development, and system-level trade studies by providing strategic insight and technical expertise.
  • Plan, organize, and coordinate simulation projects while mentoring less experienced team members and fostering a culture of technical excellence.


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 degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; six or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, four or more years of experience with a masters degree, or two or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Extensive technical expertise with a strong command of engineering principles, concepts, theory, and practice.
  • Proven ability to quickly grasp new technical concepts—particularly those relating to digital thread and digital twin strategies—and apply them effectively in an evolving environment.
  • Proficiency with simulation tools such as AFSIM or similar environments; familiarity with additional platforms (e.g., STK, Simulink) is an advantage.
  • Strong programming and scripting skills using languages and tools such as Python and MATLAB.
  • Experience with systems engineering methodologies and tools, including SysML and Cameo, to enhance cross-domain analysis and design.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills are essential, enabling the clear and compelling delivery of technical content to diverse audiences.
  • A customer-focused mindset with a demonstrated ability to develop innovative design solutions to complex technical challenges.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance required.
  • Preferred Qualifications
    • Experience modeling and simulating ISR, autonomy, electronic warfare, or contested operations.
    • Understanding of military concepts of operations (CONOPS) and multi-domain operations.
    • Background in agent-based modeling, campaign-level analysis, or wargaming.
    • Demonstrated technical leadership credentials, such as a Professional Engineering License, original publications in professional journals, or experience presenting original work at engineering symposiums.


Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 98,100 - 171,398

Salary.com Estimation for Staff Mission and Operations Modeling and Simulation Engineer in Poway, CA
$106,774 to $128,895
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