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Aerospace Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apex

Lead Environmental Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$136K - $187K/yr

Ensure compliance with applicable aerospace testing standards and regulations * Lead root cause and corrective action investigations for test escapes and anomalies, driving systemic fixes rather than ...

FTG Aerospace

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Electrical Engineer - Aerospace

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

This role focuses on designing, developing, testing, and maintaining electrical/software solutions for aerospace systems, ensuring they meet stringent safety, performance, and reliability standards.

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Aerospace Testing information

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$43.4K

$89K

$144.1K

How much do aerospace testing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace testing in California is $88,989.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes 500,000 a year?

In aerospace testing, senior engineers such as aerospace test engineers or lead engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. Such high compensation typically reflects leadership roles, significant expertise, and working in high-stakes environments or large organizations.

How to become an aerospace test engineer?

To become an aerospace test engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience with testing procedures, data analysis, and familiarity with aerospace testing tools and standards is essential, and obtaining professional certifications can enhance career prospects.

What is aerospace testing?

Aerospace testing involves evaluating aircraft, spacecraft, and their components to ensure they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. This process includes a wide range of tests, such as structural, environmental, and functional testing, both on the ground and in flight. Aerospace testing helps identify potential issues before products enter service, ensuring reliability and safety in real-world conditions. It is a crucial step in the development and certification of aerospace vehicles and systems.

How much do flight testers make?

Flight testers in aerospace typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior or specialized testers with advanced skills can earn higher salaries, especially when working on complex aircraft or in high-demand regions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Aerospace Testing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aerospace Testing, you need a solid background in engineering principles, materials science, and data analysis, typically supported by a degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with testing tools such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, and industry-specific standards like AS9100 or FAA regulations is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of aerospace systems throughout the testing process.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in aerospace testing, and how can they best prepare for them?

Professionals in aerospace testing often encounter challenges such as strict regulatory requirements, tight project timelines, and the need to ensure absolute accuracy in test results. Managing large volumes of complex data and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—like engineers, safety specialists, and project managers—are also common aspects of the job. To prepare, candidates should develop strong organizational and communication skills, gain familiarity with relevant testing standards, and stay updated on the latest testing technologies and methodologies.

How much do aerospace test engineers make?

Aerospace test engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $120,000 annually.

What is the difference between Aerospace Testing vs Aerospace Quality Assurance?

AspectAerospace TestingAerospace Quality Assurance
Primary FocusConducting tests on aerospace components and systems to verify performance and safetyEnsuring processes and products meet quality standards and regulations
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, testing certifications, technical skillsQuality management certifications, engineering background
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, test facilities, aerospace manufacturing sitesInspection sites, manufacturing plants, office settings
Industry UsageDesign validation, performance testing, safety assessmentsProcess audits, compliance checks, quality control

Both roles are vital in the aerospace industry. Aerospace Testing focuses on verifying the performance and safety of aerospace components through hands-on testing, while Aerospace Quality Assurance ensures that manufacturing processes and products meet strict quality standards. Together, they help maintain safety, reliability, and compliance in aerospace projects.

What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Testing jobs in California? For Aerospace Testing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Testing jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Testing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Aerospace Testing jobs? Cities in California with the most Aerospace Testing job openings:
Aerospace Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Testing job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 81% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,989 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Lead Environmental Test Engineer

Lead Environmental Test Engineer

Apex

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$136K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
About the Role
As the Lead Environmental Test Engineer, you will lead and develop a team of test engineers while driving excellence across environmental testing and spacecraft checkout operations. You'll be responsible for mentoring your team, setting technical direction, and owning the strategy and execution of test programs from early development through rate production. We're looking for motivated, detail-oriented engineers who combine deep technical expertise in environmental and functional testing with the leadership instincts to build and develop a high-performing team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of spacecraft test engineers while managing project assignments, performance, and professional growth
  • Own the development, execution, and continuous improvement of test plans, procedures, protocols, and requirements across environmental testing and checkouts - including vibration & shock, thermal cycling & TVAC, EMI/EMC, and pneumatic pressure testing
  • Drive the strategy and roadmap for scaling test operations from low-rate development to high-rate production, ensuring test capacity and capability grow with the program
  • Scope, procure, set up, and maintain environmental test equipment and infrastructure, making build-vs-buy decisions and managing capital planning for the test organization
  • Provide hands-on technical leadership on critical test challenges, including test fixture design, instrumentation setup, and anomaly resolution
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, design engineering, and quality assurance to identify and resolve issues and ensure test requirements are captured early in the design process
  • Analyze test data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive test reports; establish standards for data quality and reporting across the team
  • Ensure compliance with applicable aerospace testing standards and regulations
  • Lead root cause and corrective action investigations for test escapes and anomalies, driving systemic fixes rather than one-off solutions
  • Stay current with industry advancements and best practices in spacecraft environmental and functional testing

Requirements
  • U.S. Persons status is required as this position needs to access export-controlled data
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in environmental or functional testing within the aerospace industry
  • Strong leadership fundamentals demonstrated via proven ability to delegate effectively, drive strategic initiatives from concept to execution, and foster individual growth
  • Deep knowledge of aerospace testing standards, protocols, and regulations such as MIL-STD-461, GSFC-STD-7000, SMC-S-016, and MIL-STD-810
  • Proven track record of implementing test process improvements that resulted in measurable gains in quality, efficiency, schedule, or cost
  • Demonstrated experience with operating, maintaining, and procuring environmental testing equipment
  • Strong understanding of instrumentation used during environmental testing including thermocouples, accelerometers, and DAQs
  • Excellent analytical skills and ability to communicate complex technical findings to cross-functional stakeholders
  • Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, hardware-intensive environments

Preferred Requirements
  • 1+ years of technical leadership or team management experience
  • Strong people leadership skills including talent development, performance management, and ability to drive team accountability while maintaining morale
  • Experience in spacecraft or launch vehicle test programs
  • Experience scaling environmental test operations from new product introduction to rate production
  • Familiarity with AS9100 or other high-reliability aerospace quality systems
  • Experience with test automation, scripting, or programming in Python, LabVIEW, or similar
  • Knowledge of data acquisition and analysis software
  • Experience with MES/ERP systems and digital production tracking
  • Certification in relevant aerospace testing standards

#LI-HC1
Why Join Apex?
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.
What We Offer For Full-time Employees:
  • Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
  • Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
  • Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
  • Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
  • 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
  • Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
  • Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
  • Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
  • World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
  • Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

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