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Cargo Flight Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skyways

Flight Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... Troubleshoot issues in the field and collaborate with engineering to drive improvements.

Skyways LTD

Flight Operator

Austin, TX

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... Troubleshoot issues in the field and collaborate with engineering to drive improvements.

JetZero

Cabin & Cargo Engineering

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

The JetZero Team We are experienced aerospace professionals and engineers, excited about the future ... Flight Crew and Cabin Crew Seats * Cargo Compartment Linings and Equipment * Emergency Equipment ...

Cimarron

Flight Controller/Instructor

Austin, TX · On-site

$90K - $250K/yr

Coordinate with engineering, mission planning, and safety teams to support readiness reviews and ... Familiarity with commercial launch systems, orbital platforms, or commercial crew/cargo programs.

JetZero

Cabin & Cargo Engineering

Greensboro, NC · On-site

Flight Crew and Cabin Crew Seats * Cargo Compartment Linings and Equipment * Emergency Equipment ... Knowledgeable of digital twin environments or model-based systems engineering (MBSE)

Skyways

Senior Flight Operator

Austin, TX

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... Troubleshoot issues in the field and partner with engineering to drive system and procedure ...

Skyways

Senior Flight Operator

Austin, TX · On-site

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... Troubleshoot issues in the field and partner with engineering to drive system and procedure ...

Skyways

Senior Flight Operator

Austin, TX

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... Troubleshoot issues in the field and partner with engineering to drive system and procedure ...

Skyways

Senior Flight Operator

Austin, TX

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... Troubleshoot issues in the field and partner with engineering to drive system and procedure ...

Pyka

Flight Test Operator

Alameda, CA

$40 - $45/hr

Our cargo aircraft enables remote connectivity, enhances express delivery networks, and ensures ... Provide detailed technical feedback to operations and engineering teams to improve Pyka's product ...

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All JobsCargo Flight Engineer Jobs

Cargo Flight Engineer information

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$46.5K

$118.5K

$260.5K

How much do cargo flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for cargo flight engineer in the United States is $118,512.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cargo Flight Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cargo Flight Engineer, you need an in-depth understanding of aircraft systems, mechanical troubleshooting, and aviation safety, typically backed by an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license or equivalent qualifications. Familiarity with flight management systems, load planning software, and maintenance tracking tools is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with pilots and ground crews. These skills ensure safe, efficient cargo operations and minimize risks during flight and ground handling.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by a Cargo Flight Engineer during long-haul flights?

Cargo Flight Engineers on long-haul flights often encounter challenges such as monitoring complex aircraft systems for extended periods, troubleshooting technical issues mid-flight, and ensuring the safe distribution and security of cargo. They must remain vigilant to changes in aircraft performance and environmental conditions, adapting quickly to any anomalies. Additionally, effective communication with pilots, ground crews, and maintenance teams is essential to coordinate any required adjustments or emergency procedures.

What are Cargo Flight Engineers?

Cargo Flight Engineers are specialized aviation professionals responsible for monitoring and managing aircraft systems during cargo flights. They work alongside pilots to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft, particularly by overseeing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. Their duties may include troubleshooting in-flight issues, performing pre-flight inspections, and ensuring that all cargo is properly loaded and balanced. While technology has reduced the need for this position on modern aircraft, it remains essential for certain types of cargo planes and missions.

What is the difference between Cargo Flight Engineer vs Flight Engineer?

AspectCargo Flight EngineerFlight Engineer
CredentialsFAA or equivalent certification, specialized training in cargo aircraftFAA or equivalent certification, general aircraft systems knowledge
Work EnvironmentCargo aircraft, often in freight hubs and remote locationsPassenger and cargo aircraft, various flight routes
Employer & IndustryFreight airlines, cargo carriersCommercial airlines, cargo operators

The main difference is that Cargo Flight Engineers focus on cargo aircraft operations and specialized freight systems, while Flight Engineers generally work on a variety of aircraft types, including passenger planes. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Cargo Flight Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,512 per year, or $57 per hour.
Flight Operator

Flight Operator

Skyways

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017, the company has spent the last eight years developing and deploying autonomous logistics systems for real-world operations.
Our V2 aircraft carries 30 lbs up to 500 miles, while our next-generation V3 carries 100 lbs over 1,000+ miles with 20+ hours of endurance. Both use a hybrid-electric architecture that takes off like a helicopter and cruises like a plane, enabling long-range autonomous delivery without traditional runway infrastructure.
Today, Skyways aircraft operate across three continents in controlled national airspace under FAA oversight and in support of U.S. military operations. We are transitioning from prototype development to full-rate production and scaling toward large autonomous cargo fleets.
Backed by Y Combinator and a $37M AFWERX STRATFI award from the U.S. Air Force, Skyways is creating a new form of transportation to advance our civilization from Austin, Texas.
The Opportunity
As a Flight Operator on the Flight Team, you will be one of the people who make Skyways aircraft fly. You will plan and execute missions, run flight tests, troubleshoot in real time, and provide insights that shape our systems and procedures. Your work directly impacts the safety, reliability, and performance of our aircraft.
This is a hands-on, field-based role focused on real operations. You'll work across the team to plan missions, test aircraft, and improve flight operations.
What You'll Do:
  • Plan, execute, and document flight tests and operational missions.
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  • Conduct preflight and postflight inspections and ensure compliance with FAA regulations.
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  • Operate aircraft safely and effectively in a variety of conditions and mission profiles.
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  • Support vehicle testing, system validation, and operational readiness reviews.
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  • Troubleshoot issues in the field and collaborate with engineering to drive improvements.
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  • Contribute to training materials, flight procedures, and operational best practices.
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What You'll Bring:
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
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  • Experience flying drones (non-DJI) for commercial purposes.
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  • Strong knowledge of airspace, flight safety, and regulations.
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  • Excellent situational awareness and attention to detail.
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  • Ability to adapt quickly in dynamic, real world flight environments.
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  • Current FAA Third Class Medical or the ability to obtain one.
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Bonus Points If You Have:
  • Experience with large (>55 lb AUW) UAVs.
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  • Experience with ArduPilot or PX4 UAVs.
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  • FAA Part 61 certificate(s).
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  • Background in aviation or aerospace.
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  • Instructional experience in an aviation or other technical context.
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  • Technical skills in maintenance, troubleshooting, or data processing.
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Want to join our mission? Apply to learn more!
Due to U.S. government contract requirements, this role is limited to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or candidates from specific countries authorized under applicable export control regulations.
Skyways is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other factor protected by applicable local, state or federal laws.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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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