The possibilities are infinite in Space, and so are the careers. As technology races to keep up with the missions exploring our galaxy, and all the galaxies beyond, General Dynamics Mission Systems innovates the systems that will lead the way. From sending back the first words from the moon, to imagining and creating the systems that will move data to the moon and beyond, a career in General Dynamics Mission Systems’ Scottsdale, AZ; El Segundo, CA; and San Jose, CA offices will launch your personal career growth.
We spoke with directors of engineering Jim Garvey and Ken Throne; senior manager, engineering Susan Conway; lead recruiter Debi Birch; and manager, talent acquisition Eddie Shapley about General Dynamics Mission Systems’ exciting space programs and careers.
ClearanceJobs: General Dynamics Mission Systems was there when man first stepped on the moon – can you tell us about your history of work in the region and what sets your teams apart?
Jim Garvey: When Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon, an S-Band Transponder engineered by General Dynamics in Arizona was the only communications link the Apollo 11 Astronauts had to Earth. From Apollo 11 to the Next Giant Leap, what we build at General Dynamics Mission Systems is the heart of the mission. The exquisite systems that we imagine, design, engineer and build are what makes the space mission possible.
Susan Conaway: Like Jim said, our space history is 60+ years long and still going strong. We have so many great teams working on so many incredible, history-making programs between our three Arizona and California offices that it really gives our employees opportunities to move around to many different programs and contribute to all kinds of space missions.
Ken Throne: Susan and Jim bring up great points. General Dynamics Mission Systems is not just making the next fad space product, we are making mission-critical systems for the length of the mission, and beyond. And the cutting-edge technology we use to create these incredible, innovative space programs means our employees are truly engaged while making a significant impact on our Nation’s security.
ClearanceJobs: Since we last spoke, COVID-19 has changed the way we work. How has General Dynamics Mission Systems adapted to that?
Debi Birch: COVID-19 changed the way we all do work, and where possible, we implemented remote work. Under our new, flexible Employee Workplace Plan, many employees can choose from different work location options ranging from fully on-site, a hybrid work-from-home/work-on-site and fully remote model. We still have our popular 9/80 work schedule, which gives employees every other Friday off, and when we say we prioritize work-life balance, we truly mean it.
ClearanceJobs: Are your space careers limited only to job seekers with experience? Can people who don’t work for General Dynamics refer qualified candidates for open positions?
Eddie Shapley: To answer your first question, we are looking for students who want to intern to professionals with years of experience. As my colleagues said, we have so many different programs enterprise-wide, there are many opportunities for all candidates. For your second question, our new External Referral Program offers up to a $15,000 bonus to non-General Dynamics employees who submit referrals for qualified candidates who are hired into specific positions.
ClearanceJobs: Susan and Jim, you’ve both been with General Dynamics Mission Systems for a long time, what makes you excited to go to work there day after day?
SC: It’s a family-like atmosphere where people have worked on cutting-edge missions that have truly impacted mankind’s history. I have had many career options and the chance to work on numerous teams doing awe-inspiring work.
JG: We have pictures in our hallway showing missions that go back to 1958 and people I work with today who have touched those missions. We are collaborative and team-based, and we focus on the mission and empowering every team member. That mindset makes it easy to go work each day. And when my grandchild asks me what I did for a living, I can honestly say, I helped mankind explore the universe.
Learn more about General Dynamics Mission Systems’ Space missions.
Interested in joining the team? Check out open positions, including those participating in our External Referral Program.
SPONSORED CONTENT: This article is written on or behalf of our Sponsor.
