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Airline Development Engineer information

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$49K

$96.2K

$153.5K

How much do airline development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for airline development engineer in the United States is $96,155.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an airline development engineer do?

An Airline Development Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and improving systems, components, or processes used in the airline industry. This role often involves working on new aircraft technologies, optimizing airline operations, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, performance, and passenger experience. Additionally, they may participate in testing and evaluating new equipment or software to support airline operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airline development engineer?

To thrive as an Airline Development Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, systems design, and project management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry standards such as FAA/EASA regulations is essential, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Six Sigma are often advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating across multidisciplinary teams and addressing complex engineering challenges. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative development of airline systems that meet regulatory requirements and operational needs.

What are some common challenges airline development engineers face when integrating new technologies into existing aircraft systems?

Airline Development Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, adhering to strict industry regulations, and minimizing aircraft downtime during upgrades. Balancing innovation with safety and reliability is crucial, as even small changes can have significant impacts on performance and compliance. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including maintenance, operations, and regulatory bodies—is essential to successfully implement these advancements while maintaining operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Airline Development Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

AspectAirline Development EngineerAircraft Maintenance Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in aviation or aerospaceAircraft maintenance license, certifications in aircraft systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of airline systems and servicesInspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft
Employer & IndustryAirlines, aerospace companies, aviation consultantsAirlines, maintenance, and repair organizations

While both roles involve aviation expertise, Airline Development Engineers focus on designing and improving airline systems and services, whereas Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft to ensure safety and compliance.

Are flight engineers in demand?

Flight engineers, also known as aircraft systems engineers, are in moderate demand as airlines and maintenance organizations seek experienced professionals to ensure aircraft safety and efficiency. The role requires technical skills, certifications, and experience with modern aircraft systems, and demand can vary based on industry growth and fleet modernization efforts.

How to become an airline development engineer?

To become an airline development engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Relevant skills include knowledge of aircraft systems, CAD software, and project management, often complemented by experience in aircraft design or maintenance. Certifications such as EASA or FAA licenses can enhance job prospects in this specialized field.

What are popular job titles related to Airline Development Engineer jobs?

For Airline Development Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Airline Development Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,155 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Product Development Engineer II

Santa Fe Springs, CA • On-site

Advanced Ground Systems Engineering LLC
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Advanced Ground Systems Engineering LLCexternal

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description:

About the Role

AGSE is seeking a Product Development Engineer II to develop specialized aerospace ground support equipment used by aircraft engine manufacturers, airlines, and maintenance organizations around the world.


This is a hands-on product development role for an engineer ready to take independent ownership of projects from concept through production release. You will work directly with customers and cross-functional teams to turn requirements into safe, practical, manufacturable products.


What You’ll Do

  • Lead assigned product development projects from customer requirements through design, validation, and production release.
  • Develop mechanical structures, assemblies, mechanisms, tooling, transportation equipment, and aerospace ground support equipment.
  • Evaluate design concepts considering performance, safety, cost, schedule, manufacturability, and customer needs.
  • Perform engineering calculations and coordinate structural analysis and FEA as required.
  • Provide technical direction for 3D models, production drawings, and bills of material developed using Autodesk Inventor.
  • Review engineering drawings, GD&T, materials, tolerances, and manufacturing requirements.
  • Develop and execute design verification and validation plans, including prototype and physical testing.
  • Participate in customer technical meetings and design reviews.
  • Coordinate with CAD Design, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Technical Publications, Product Support, and Program Management.
  • Identify technical and schedule risks and drive issues to resolution.
  • Support production and field issues when engineering assistance is required.
  • Mentor less-experienced engineers and contribute to improvements in engineering standards and processes.


What We’re Looking For

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
  • Typically 3–6 years of relevant mechanical design or product development experience.
  • Experience developing mechanical components, assemblies, structures, or equipment.
  • Strong understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals, including statics, strength of materials, and machine design.
  • Working knowledge of engineering drawings, GD&T, tolerance analysis, materials, and manufacturing processes.
  • Experience with fabricated, machined, and assembled mechanical products.
  • Ability to perform and document engineering calculations supporting design decisions.
  • Experience with product verification, validation, testing, or prototype development.
  • Strong problem-solving, organization, and communication skills.
  • Ability to independently manage technical work and multiple priorities.


Preferred Experience

  • Aerospace, aviation, ground support equipment, industrial equipment, tooling, or complex mechanical product development.
  • Welded structures, lifting or handling equipment, transportation stands, maintenance tooling, or similar products.
  • Autodesk Inventor or comparable 3D CAD experience.
  • Structural analysis or FEA.
  • Development and execution of engineering test plans.
  • ASME Y14 drawing and GD&T standards.
  • AS9100 or similar aerospace quality systems.
  • Direct interaction with technical customers, aircraft engine OEMs, airlines, or MRO organizations.\


What Success Looks Like

  • Successful Product Development Engineer II candidates will:
  • Take ownership of projects and reliably deliver commitments.
  • Develop safe, technically sound, manufacturable products.
  • Make sound engineering decisions with limited supervision.
  • Identify risks and problems early and drive them to resolution.
  • Balance technical performance with cost, schedule, quality, and customer needs.
  • Build strong relationships with customers and cross-functional teams.
  • Help improve engineering methods and mentor developing engineers.


Why AGSE?

AGSE develops specialized equipment supporting aircraft engines throughout their lifecycle. Our engineers work directly with customers and participate throughout the complete product development process, from understanding the initial problem and developing concepts to validating the design and seeing the finished product enter service.


For engineers who enjoy solving practical mechanical problems, working directly with customers, and seeing their designs become real products, AGSE offers the opportunity to develop broad engineering experience while building a long-term technical or engineering leadership career.


Requirements: