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General Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer, Software

Acton, MA · On-site

$190K - $225K/yr

Job Summary General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a ... The Systems Engineer - Software is responsible for the technical strategy and technical execution ...

Systems Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$62K - $89K/yr

Site: Mass General Brigham Incorporated Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of ... Job Summary Summary We are seeking a motivated Systems Engineer to assist with the day-to-day ...

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Step 2: Coding Assessment (Unpaid) A ~90-minute Code Signal assessment, completed in one sitting, covering general programming/algorithms, requirement understanding, and debugging. This step is ...

Contamination Control Engineer

Acton, MA · On-site

$91K - $118K/yr

Job Summary General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a ... With limited direction, the Contamination Control Engineer is responsible for developing ...

Job Summary General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading ... Interacts with engineering staff on design concepts and progress. * May be assigned design ...

Showing results 41-60

General Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$42.5K

$110.8K

$149.8K

How much do general engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for general engineer in Boston, MA is $110,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $126,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a general engineer?

General Engineers are versatile professionals who apply principles of engineering, mathematics, and science to solve a wide range of technical problems. They often work across various disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering, and may be involved in designing, developing, testing, and overseeing the production of different systems or products. Their broad skill set allows them to adapt to numerous industries, including manufacturing, government, construction, and technology. General Engineers typically collaborate with other engineers and professionals to ensure that projects meet technical specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a general engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a General Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, mathematics, and problem-solving, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, project management tools, and relevant industry standards or certifications (such as EIT or PE) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help set outstanding engineers apart. These competencies ensure successful project execution, innovation, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by general engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?

General Engineers often collaborate with teams from various specialties such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. A common challenge is effectively communicating technical requirements and expectations across disciplines to ensure project goals are met. Balancing multiple priorities and adapting to changing project scopes can also be demanding. Successful General Engineers use strong problem-solving and teamwork skills to bridge gaps and maintain project momentum.

What is the difference between General Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectGeneral EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, often with diverse specializationBachelor's degree in civil engineering, often with PE licensure
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including defense, aerospace, and infrastructureConstruction sites, urban planning, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, defense contractors, manufacturingConstruction firms, government agencies, consulting firms

General Engineers have a broad scope, working across multiple engineering disciplines, while Civil Engineers focus specifically on infrastructure and construction projects. Both roles require similar foundational credentials, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

How much money does a general engineer make?

A general engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but the median annual wage in the United States is around $95,000. Entry-level engineers typically earn less, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $130,000 annually. Salary also depends on the complexity of projects and the engineer's ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

What jobs do general engineers do?

General engineers work on designing, developing, and overseeing the construction and operation of various systems and structures across industries such as manufacturing, infrastructure, and energy. They often use technical skills, problem-solving, and knowledge of engineering principles to manage projects, ensure safety, and improve efficiency. Their work may involve project management, technical analysis, and collaboration with specialists, often requiring a bachelor's degree in engineering and relevant certifications.
Infographic showing various General Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,544 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Systems Engineer, Software

General Atomics

Acton, MA • On-site

$190K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and refine space payload system architectures for various space sensing missions.

  • Support payload concept development, system architecture, requirements, and system modeling activities.

  • Organize and review technical efforts, documentation, and deliverables related to payload contracts.


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.
General Atomics is looking for a Systems Engineer - Software for Space EO/IR Payload efforts within our Optical Sensor System Group in Acton, MA. The Systems Engineer - Software is responsible for the technical strategy and technical execution of space payload programs. This includes all phases of development from pre-award concept development, initial architecture and development of interfaces and component requirements through design, testing and verification, production support, and on orbit operations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Application of electro-optical and infrared remote sensing system knowledge to develop and refine space payload system architectures for weather, earth science, missile defense, ISR, or other space sensing missions
  • Experience associated with the development, engineering, interfacing, integration, and testing of EO/IR Payload systems with complex hardware/software attributes
  • Support payload concept development, system architecture development, system and subsystem requirements development, systems analysis and trade studies, and systems modeling and simulation
  • Organize and review technical efforts, documentation, and deliverables on payload contracts in conjunction with program management staff.
  • Provide guidance on program risks/opportunities
  • Responsible for program technical issue resolution, ensures root cause is identified and corrective actions are executed
  • Decompose system requirements to software requirements
  • Support translation of architecture to ICD's and support ICD updates/maintenance
  • Support Cybersecurity requirements, plan, RTVM, etc.
  • Work with AI&T team on software validation plan and software tests
  • Acts as a key member of the GA IPT managing requirements and issue resolution for software subcontracts
  • Provides software inputs and ICD controls for our Prime contracts
  • Support design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR)

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; 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.
  • Experience with key elements of the design, assembly, test, and operation of EO/IR space sensors.
  • Strong multi-disciplinary technical breadth in Space Systems and Ground Test Domain
  • Specialized experience including the use of structured analysis, design methodologies and/or design tools in the development and implementation of large projects and experience leading EO/IR sensor assembly, integration, and test teams.
  • Creative problem solver who demonstrates a broad ranging technical skillset
  • Able to present results and communicate with customers and senior management
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance required (Current clearance highly desired)
  • Experience with C/C++, Python, Real Time Operating Systems, embedded systems, Linux, Microsoft Windows, IP communications and networking is desired.
  • Familiarity with GIT.
  • Demonstrated experience on satellite software products or safety critical software is an advantage.
  • Familiarity with all aspects of the satellite system life cycle is desired

What General Atomics employees say

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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