Sr Acoustics Systems Production Development Engineer at General Dynamics Mission Systems

Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field, plus a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree plus a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience. Must have Acoustics or Sonar experience.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is preferred at time of hire, and must be obtainable within a reasonable period of time as determined by the program. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.

Progeny Systems, a business area within the General Dynamics Mission Systems company, is a high-tech business focusing on software and hardware system integration, cutting-edge research and development, and manufacturing. We deliver architectures, designs, testing, and production of the current and next generation torpedo guidance and control systems for the Department of Defense providing the warfighter with advanced capabilities in target detection, acquisition, and prosecution. We are a technology leader in numerous areas including technology insertion; acoustic sensors; signal processing; guidance; cyber secure; and high reliability systems.

As an Sr Acoustics Systems Production Development Engineer (Sr Adv Sys Eng) in our Progeny Business Area, you will be a member of a cross functional team responsible for the design and development of submarine (VA Class, Columbia Class, SSN(X)) and other undersea vehicle acoustic systems and directly contribute to the technical and production success of our programs through hands-on technical contributions, leadership and management of an engineering team.

Duties and Tasks:

• Lead cross-functional teams to develop and produce sonar transducer/array systems.
• Support all phases of transducer/array system proposals, research, development, manufacture, test, and documentation.

• Research and Development: Conducting experiments to understand the composition and structure of materials used in underwater acoustics.
• Synthesis of Materials: Creating new materials or improving existing ones by altering their chemical, physical, or mechanical properties.
• Proposals: Lead preparation of multidisciplinary proposals regarding development of sonar transducer/array systems.
• Manufacturing: Performs technical activities which impact the proposal, system level design, detail design and manufacture of advanced acoustics systems.
• Testing and Analysis: Evaluating material properties through various tests, such as stress tests, and analyzing the results.
• Data Interpretation: Interpreting data from experiments and tests to draw conclusions and make recommendations.
• Problem Solving: Addressing issues related to materials performance, array/element housings, and producibility, and finding solutions to improve them.
• Collaboration: Working with engineers and other scientists on the development of materials for specific applications.
• Quality Control: Ensuring that supply chain components and transducer/array systems meet required specifications and standards.
• Project Management: Leading or participating in projects, managing timelines, resources, and budgets.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• The ideal candidate will have experience in the entire life cycle of acoustic element and system design, including:

• • Generating new sensor designs

  • Specifying ceramics and production of shapes

  • Development and test of individual sensors (such as Tonpilz) and systems with multiple sensors

  • Formal acoustic testing and data analysis

  • Construction in a full rate production process

• Expert knowledge in modeling electroacoustic transducers/arrays using analytical and numerical methods; integrating sonar transducer/arrays with relevant transmit/receive electronics; conducting experiments in the laboratory facilities and at-sea.
• Extensive experience creating technical content for the development of new products, ideas, or other business development pursuits.
• Detailed knowledge of technology trends with Research & Development (R&D) experience.
• Exceptional collaboration and communication skills with demonstrated success leading design teams for complex projects.
• Team player committed to ongoing professional development for yourself and others.
• Motivated to drive innovation in design architectures, assembly, component selection, and electronics design.
• Experienced in technical project and program management.
• Effectively communicates technical and programmatic matters to senior level management, program offices, and internal/external stakeholders.
• Experience in analysis of complex acoustic and/or vibration applications and installations on submarines and other undersea vehicles.
• Has respect of peers and colleagues for technical and management credibility.

Our Commitment to You:

• An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
• Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation’s security
• Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)
• Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more
• See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits

Workplace Options:

• This position is ON-SITE in Canonsburg, PA....relocation assistance may be available.

This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
USD $145,000.00 - USD $160,000.00 /Yr.

At General Dynamics Mission Systems, we rise to the challenge each day to ensure the safety of those that lead, serve, and protect the world we live in. We do this by making the world’s most advanced defense platforms even smarter. Our engineers redefine what’s possible and our manufacturing team brings it to life, building the brains behind the brawn on submarines, ships, combat vehicles, aircraft, satellites, and other advanced systems.

We pride ourselves in being a great place to work with this shared sense of purpose, committed to a diverse and exciting employee experience that drives innovation and creates a community where all feel welcome and a part of something amazing.

We offer highly competitive benefits and a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. To see more about our benefits, visit

Dynamics is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer that is committed to hiring a diverse and talented workforce. EOE/Disability/Veteran