Scientist I
General AtomicsSan Diego, California, United States
Posted February 18, 2026
Full Time
About the Company
General Atomics and Affiliated Companies, headquartered in San Diego, is a privately owned, vertically integrated firm that develops cutting‑edge technology solutions for both government and commercial markets. The company’s portfolio spans nuclear fuel cycle services, electromagnetic and laser systems, remotely piloted aircraft and airborne sensors, and advanced energy platforms. Notable programs include the Predator® UAV, TRIGA® research reactors, aircraft‑carrier launch and recovery systems, MagLev transport, and fusion‑energy research. Its unique combination of deep R&D investment, end‑to‑end manufacturing capability, and global delivery expertise positions General Atomics as a leader in high‑technology aerospace, defense, and energy solutions.
Job Description
Join our Inertial Fusion Technology group as a Scientist I to contribute to the development, production support, and characterization of novel materials and thin-film coatings. Assist scientific staff in analysis, investigation, and resolution of routine scientific problems and perform functional testing of equipment.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a scientific or related discipline
- Basic understanding of scientific concepts/principles
- Ability to follow and apply standard techniques, use diagnostics/tools/equipment, and maintain safety and regulatory compliance
- Experience in equipment automation (e.g., LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, data acquisition, scripting for instrumentation, or automated data logging)
- Ability to learn or prior exposure to PVD thin-film processes (especially sputtering) and vacuum equipment operation
