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Functional Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

Leads and plans projects with diverse cross-functional engineering teams to successfully execute programs within budget and schedule. * Develops system architectures tied to mission and performance ...

KLA

Algorithm Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

... functional programming • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to work both independently and in a team environment. Qualifications : Required : • Strong background in ...

General Atomics

Engineer III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

Represents the engineering functional organization to Project Management for assigned technical scope. * Interfaces with the Project Engineer to communicate status, issues, and needs for assigned ...

General Atomics

Engineer III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

Represents the engineering functional organization to Project Management for assigned technical scope. * Interfaces with the Project Engineer to communicate status, issues, and needs for assigned ...

Lam Research Corporation

Software Engineer Sys 3

Fremont, CA · On-site

$189K - $224K/yr

Partner with development, program management, and cross-functional engineering teams to support new product and feature introductions by understanding product roadmaps and driving Alpha, Beta, and ...

FieldAI

Lead Functional Safety Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

$110K - $144K/yr

We're looking for a Lead Functional Safety Engineer to support systems-level design, integration, and validation for our wheeled robotic platforms across both federal and commercial programs. In this ...

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Functional Engineer information

What is the difference between Functional Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFunctional EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in systems or softwareBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly PE license
Work EnvironmentSystems, software, or product development settingsManufacturing, design, and testing labs
Industry UsageTechnology, automation, and systems integrationAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing
Common Search IntentDesigning and optimizing functions within systemsDesigning mechanical components and systems

Functional Engineers focus on designing and improving system functions, often in software or integrated systems, while Mechanical Engineers work on mechanical components and machinery. Both roles require engineering degrees but differ in their specific applications and work environments.

What is a functional engineer?

Functional Engineers are professionals who bridge the gap between business requirements and technical solutions in an organization. They analyze business processes, gather and document requirements, and translate them into functional specifications that technical teams can use to develop or modify systems. Functional Engineers often work closely with stakeholders, developers, and project managers to ensure that software or systems meet the intended business needs. Their role is crucial in ensuring that technology solutions are both effective and user-friendly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a functional engineer?

To thrive as a Functional Engineer, you need a strong background in systems analysis, process optimization, and requirements gathering, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with business process management tools, ERP systems like SAP, and relevant certifications such as CBAP or Six Sigma is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and stakeholder management are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that technical solutions align closely with business needs, driving successful project outcomes and operational efficiency.

How does a functional engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Functional Engineers play a vital role in bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders. They frequently work alongside project managers, developers, testers, and end-users to gather requirements, clarify functional specifications, and ensure that the final product aligns with business needs. Throughout the project lifecycle, they facilitate communication, coordinate user acceptance testing, and support the resolution of any functional discrepancies. This collaborative approach ensures that solutions are both technically sound and functionally effective.

What are popular job titles related to Functional Engineer jobs in California?

For Functional Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Functional Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Functional Engineer jobs in California are:

Functional Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Functional Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Engineer V

General Atomics

Poway, CA • On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

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 experienced Project Engineer to join our MQ-9B Program Engineering group located in Poway, CA focused on development and fielding of MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian UAS for the country of India.
Under limited supervision, this Project Engineer will lead country-specific advanced airborne, ground and data infrastructure development efforts in coordination with MQ-9B Program Engineering leads and functional engineering resources. Additionally, this Project Engineer will support global strategic supplier development, proposal efforts and customer-specific capability integration as we bring the most sophisticated MQ-9B variant ever produced to India.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Leads hardware and software integration efforts for the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) flight environment.
  • Leads and plans projects with diverse cross-functional engineering teams to successfully execute programs within budget and schedule.
  • Develops system architectures tied to mission and performance requirements.
  • Conducts and leads trade studies that results in design and architectures that meet mission needs.
  • Performs full lifecycle program execution from concept through airworthiness testing, certification and fielding.
  • Actively plans, leads and participates in test events, including System Integration Lab (SIL), Ground and Flight Test phases.
  • Develops and presents technical material for diverse audiences.
  • Interfaces with US Government and International Customer stakeholders.
  • Devises new approaches to resolve unusual or complex engineering problems.
  • Troubleshoots conflicting design/development requirements, difficult coordination elements, and special requirements.
  • Understands and applies systems engineering principles; organizes project definitions in a top-down organized system engineering approach.
  • Effectively applies Concept of Operations (CONOPs) to drive physical and functional design requirements.
  • Actively supports proposal development through work scope definitions, Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) organization and engineering estimation.
  • Works collaboratively with global suppliers to include development of work packages, contract elements and collaboration work products.
  • Represents the organization as the prime technical contact on related efforts, when required.
  • Provides direction to technical teams and leads moderately experienced professional staff.
  • Responsible for the execution and implementation of the engineering process: design, development, integration, test and performance verification.
  • Manages program schedule and resource needs.
  • Leads and develops program reviews, including SRR, PDR, CDR and Test Readiness reviews.
  • Supports program capture and business development activities.
  • Integrates and tests mission systems of varying maturity levels.
  • Develops physical and functional data dissemination and data flows solutions.
  • Generates airworthiness documentation and approvals, as required.
  • Applies cyber security requirements including IATT and network security; interprets classification guidance, DD254s and related security related elements.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Highlights Working For GA-ASI:
  • This position is eligible for the Individual Compensation Program (ICP) bonus.
  • This position is eligible for a hybrid work environment pending project needs.
  • Outstanding benefits including: 401(k) (with company match), company pension, on site cafeterias, gyms and outdoor recreation centers, unlimited access to discounted tickets to events and amusement parks such as San Diego Zoo and Safari Park at discounted rates.
  • Outstanding work environment: team-centric, value and respect all contributors, great growth potential within GA-ASI project engineering and GA-ASI as a whole.
  • Free Electric Vehicle (EV) charging while at work.

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; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Demonstrates an extensive technical expertise and application of engineering principles, concepts, theory, and practice with the ability to organize, plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones with some experience in project leadership.
  • Able to work extended hours as required.
  • A Professional Engineering License, original work(s) published in professional engineering journals, and invited to present one or more original works to an engineering symposium are desirable.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance is required.
  • Must possess:
    • Ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.
    • Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required enabling an effective interface with other departments and/or professionals.
    • Capable of representing the organization as a prime technical contact, as well as providing leadership and guidance to less experienced professionals.
    • Customer focused, formulates plans based on the development of innovative new designs in resolving advanced technical engineering problems.
    • Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment.

What General Atomics employees say

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About General Atomics

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General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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