Field Avionics Technician II

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 Avionics Technician supporting Test Operations at our Flight Operations 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 further the development of new hardware and software, adding new capabilities to airborne sensing and weapons systems, and sustainment of customer fleets including MQ-1C Gray Eagle, MQ-9A Reaper, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian, SeaGuardian, and Protector systems.

Responsible for the entire Unmanned Aircraft System, you will be modifying and configuring aircraft and ground control stations to meet customer specified test programs, executing ground tests, and supporting flight test activities.  This includes flightline activities such as preflight, mission monitoring for system performance, and postflight data collection.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The successful candidate will service, troubleshoot, repair, inspect, and maintain aircraft and ground support equipment in support of test operations and sustainment activities in accordance with maintenance documentation.
• Support test teams for test and development (R&D) efforts.
• Modifies, installs, and tests electronics and mechanical equipment as part of customer and company modification and test efforts.
• Corrects major and minor discrepancies by removal, repair, or replacement of defective or deleted parts of aircraft electrical and avionics systems as well as ground support systems (ground stations, ground data terminals and SATCOM terminals).
• Performs scheduled maintenance and functional checks on existing, newly installed and modified aircraft systems and equipment as well as ground support systems (ground stations, ground data terminals (GDT) and SATCOM terminals); disassembles, assembles, and adjusts electronic equipment.
• Operates test equipment to locate, diagnose, and repair defective parts and performs routine inspections on systems and equipment.
• Troubleshoots, tests, and documents findings; repairs or replaces components based on test results by following technical drawings, schematics, handbooks, engineering documents, customer and company technical manuals and other technical guidance.
• Fabricates, upgrades, routes, and installs wiring harnesses.
• Supports company and customer flight test activities at various locations in support of test objectives. Includes but not limited to Flight Engineer duties, launch and recovery efforts and reports.
• Opportunities for cross-training into other disciplines.
• 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.

• Typically requires education or formal training equivalent to the completion of a two-year technical degree or trade school equivalency as well as two or more years' experience in aviation or electronics. Equivalent professional experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Must be able to perform a variety of routine tasks and demonstrate full knowledge of avionics and electronic procedures and principles.
• Must possess:
  • The ability to troubleshoot at the component level
  • Full knowledge and use of electronic test equipment, hand and soldering tools, voltage or amperage measuring and recording devices
  • Knowledge of relevant computer applications, operations, and networking
  • The ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics and technical orders
  • 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.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Security clearance is required.