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# Systems Engineer - Communications Systems Architect

- **Company:** General Atomics
- **Location:** Poway, CA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $128,130.0 - $229,358.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Cyber Security, Internet Protocol, Link 16, Mesh Networking, SAP (Applications), Systems Architecture
- **Published:** July 4, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=65a1fda15170aec2

## About the Role

* 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.
 * Extensive experience with and detailed knowledge of US DoD communications systems and datalinks, such as Link 16, TTNT, CDL mesh networks and their use and integration requirements
 * Ability to prescribe detailed airborne and terrestrial communications architecture including performance calculations, trades studies, mission analysis, and resulting system level requirements
 * Understanding the design and implementation of Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) implementation by US DoD services. Familiarity with both architecture standards like Open Mission Systems (OMS) and hardware standards like Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) a plus.
 * Familiar with IP networking technologies and protocols
 * Experience with related DoD Cyber Security requirements and Cross Domain Solutions
 * Proficiency decomposing high level mission needs into a system to be built
 * Ability to document and communicate this solution, including architecture, requirements, trade studies, etc.
 * Experience integrating communications payloads onto aircraft
 * Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.
 * Ability to hold a SAP/SAR clearance.

## Description

* Define, develop, and lead the integration of new communications and networking payloads into UAS.
 * Identify new airborne network/communications payload concepts that improve mission capabilities for Warfighter communications and networking, such as new communications interoperability / gateway capabilities, range extension or relay capabilities, or new links or protocols to service new users from airborne platforms.
 * Leverage extensive knowledge of existing military radios and waveforms to provide viable communication mission architecture for new and existing platforms.
 * Exercise considerable latitude in determining technical objectives for the review, research, design, development, and/or solution(s) for a designated engineering system(s) or project(s)/program(s).
 * Function in an advisory or leadership role with regards to the planning and oversight of the successful resolution and implementation of engineering problem(s) and provides direction and guidance to professional and support staff.
 * Formulate technical plans, typically multi-year, for solutions development, documentation, and deployment.
 * Performs 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.


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