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Aerospace Testing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chipton Ross

Aerospace Vehicle Technician

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$41.15/hr

Job #219391 Chipton-Ross is seeking 14 Aerospace Vehicle Technicians for a contract opportunity in ... The ideal candidate will work from released work instructions to support assembly, testing, and ...

AstroForge

Spacecraft Test Engineer

Seal Beach, CA · On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline (e.g., Aerospace, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, or related field). * 3+ years of experience in spacecraft or high-complexity aerospace testing (e.g ...

Apex

Spacecraft Environmental Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Differentiators: • Certification in relevant aerospace standards • Experience with avionics functional and/or pneumatic pressure testing • Experience in programming (Python, LabVIEW, etc.) • ...

Canopy A&D

Head of Engineering

Irvine, CA

Deep technical expertise in thermal protection systems, composite manufacturing processes, material properties, and relevant aerospace testing standards, with the ability to provide detailed-level ...

asrcfh

PCON System Support Specialist

Edwards, CA

This position is an as-needed, part-time role that supports the maintenance, troubleshooting, and enhancement of legacy and active control system software used for mission-critical aerospace testing ...

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All JobsAerospace Testing JobsAerospace Testing Jobs in California

Aerospace Testing information

See California salary details

$43.4K

$89K

$144.1K

How much do aerospace testing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in aerospace testing?

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.

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.

How much do aerospace testing engineers make?

Aerospace testing engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in flight testing or propulsion systems can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Certifications and working in high-demand regions can also influence compensation levels.

How to become an aerospace testing engineer?

To become an aerospace testing engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in testing procedures, and understanding aerospace materials and systems are important; certifications in quality assurance or testing can also enhance prospects.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,989 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Senior Engineer, Structural Analysis (R5173)

Shield AI

San Diego, CA • On-site

$113K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Shield AI is seeking a Structural Analyst to support the structural analysis and testing of advanced UAVs. In this role, you will work closely with Mechanical, Systems, Propulsion, and Aerospace Engineers to ensure the structural integrity of our lightweight, high-performance aircraft. You will contribute to the design, analysis, testing, and optimization of airframe structures and components, ensuring they meet performance, weight, and safety requirements.
 
This role is ideal for engineers with 5+ years of experience looking to gain expertise in finite element analysis (FEA), composite materials, mechanical testing, and aircraft loads analysis in a fast-paced, high-tech aerospace environment.
What you'll do:
  • Assist in building and refining finite element models (FEM) to evaluate the structural performance of UAV components.
  • Perform static, modal, fatigue, and vibration analyses to assess stress, deformation, and durability.
  • Conduct hand calculations to validate FEA results, ensuring accuracy and structural reliability.
  • Work with design engineers to optimize airframe structures, balancing weight, strength, and manufacturability.
  • Support the development of test plans for structural validation, including quasi-static, vibration, and shock testing.
  • Analyze flight telemetry and structural test data to improve modeling accuracy and correlate predictions with real-world performance.
  • Assist in defining load cases, material properties, and design margins for UAV airframe and mechanical components.
  • Document and present structural analysis reports and technical recommendations to engineering teams.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure structural requirements align with system performance goals.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of structural analysis methodologies, tools, and best practices.
Required qualifications:
  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in structural analysis, finite element modeling, or aircraft loads analysis.
  • Experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, NASTRAN, HyperWorks, or similar).
  • Strong ability to perform hand calculations for structural strength, stability, and fatigue analysis.
  • Knowledge of composite materials and lightweight aerospace structures.
  • Familiarity with mechanical testing methods (static, vibration, and fatigue).
  • Proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar).
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a team environment.
  • Ability to get a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
  • Experience in aircraft structural design, UAV airframe development, or aerospace testing.
  • Hands-on experience with structural testing, modal analysis, or composite modeling.
  • Exposure to CAD software (NX, SolidWorks) and PLM tools (Teamcenter or similar).
  • Understanding of aerospace industry standards, structural certification processes, and material selection.
$113,948 - $170,922 a year
#LI-MS1
#LC

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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