Avoid GA-ASI unless it is your only option. - Engineer General Atomics Employee Review

1.0
Oct 15, 2009
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Current work force retention rates reflect the state of the economy. Products and support functions are relatively simple, by military equipment standards, and leave the company exposed to competition posed by industrious former employees. A market turn around and increased access to capital will provide opportunity to chip away at ASI's cushy profit margins.

Cons

Not a company that values the employee. I had never worked in an environment where leaders are completely absent until I arrived at ASI. Don't misunderstand, there are plenty of managers willing to issue directives but they are never willing to take a stand on behalf of the people working to comply. Vison, unity and teamwork are foreign concepts. There are certainly bigger bullies to be found at other defense companies, but within those organizations I have found they are typically kept in check by skilled leaders.

Explore other reviews about General Atomics

5.0
Jun 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Very good work life balance

Cons

9 hour shifts 4 days a week

3.0
Jun 11, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Mostly good people and skilled engineers that are easy to work with and great to learn from across all groups/locations. There is opportunity to pursue technical areas of interest and to stand out by leading improvement efforts. The company is flexible and often facilitates changes according to interest. Sense of job security generally feels good and stable, the greater GA really backs the Space division. The greater company works on some really interesting and cool things, beyond just defense. Pay is pretty good. Experience with most middle management (of engineers) has been positive, they typically advocate and support their employees.

Cons

Unsure of division leadership and strategic direction. Overall impression is that engineers' perspectives are not adequately weighted in both proposals and certain decisions for active missions. Processes burden performance, though there is intention for constant improvement. Ignoring engineering concerns (i.e. with schedule) + process burdens often result in delays and increased pressure, and therefore a less than ideal working environment at times. Overtime pay is not guaranteed but can be approved. Working with teams in different locations can lead to tension and "silo-ing" (though not always). Space division is becoming mostly defense focused (an industry trend), but would be nice to continue work in the civil earth and space science arena. They also demo'd a nice cafeteria/gathering space for more work/equipment space.

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