About General Dynamics Mission Systems
What is General Dynamics Mission Systems?
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) is the defense-electronics, C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance), and mission-systems division of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD). GDMS builds the hardware and software that runs aboard US Navy submarines, ground vehicles, satellite systems, and space-force tracking platforms — programmes range from Bowman tactical radios to space-domain awareness payloads.
Where will I work?
GDMS operates major engineering sites across the US — Pittsfield MA, Dedham MA, McLeansville NC, Scottsdale AZ, Colorado Springs CO, San Jose CA and several others. Most engineering roles are on-site or hybrid because the work involves classified material handled in SCIFs. Most positions require a Department of Defense security clearance.
What is the GDMS team like?
~14,000 engineers, scientists, programme managers and support staff across the US. The hiring pipeline skews heavily toward systems engineering, software engineering, hardware engineering, RF/microwave engineering, and cyber/space programmes.
Work-Life Balance
GDMS offers the 9/80 schedule — a compressed work pattern where you work nine 9-hour days plus one 8-hour day across a two-week pay period, then get every other Friday off. Wording verbatim on every GDMS JD on the gd.com careers portal: "Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule)." The 9/80 is opt-in.
Perks and Benefits
- 9/80 schedule — every other Friday off (verified verbatim across multiple GDMS JDs).
- Department of Defense security clearance sponsorship for most roles.
- Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage.
- 401(k) with company matching.
- Equity via parent General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).
- Engineering Leadership Program for early-career hires.
How to Apply
Apply directly via the gd.com careers portal, filtering for GDMS opportunities. Note: most roles require ability to obtain a Department of Defense security clearance — typically US citizenship required.
Note on company structure
GDMS is the US Mission Systems division of General Dynamics, distinct from the existing General Dynamics UK entry on 4dayweek.io (which is a separate UK subsidiary scraped from generaldynamics.uk.com). Other GD divisions (GDIT, GDLS, Bath Iron Works, Gulfstream, Electric Boat) each have separate operations and may or may not offer 9/80 — verify per role.