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Cargo Flight Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... crew and cargo from Earth to the lunar surface. As part of a hardworking team of spacecraft ... Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and ...

GN&C Navigation Engineer III

Reston, VA · On-site

$164K - $230K/yr

... crew and cargo from Earth to the lunar surface. As part of a hardworking team of spacecraft ... Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and ...

... crew and cargo from Earth to the lunar surface. As part of a hardworking team of spacecraft ... Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and ...

... crew and cargo from Earth to the lunar surface. As part of a hardworking team of spacecraft ... Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and ...

We build and operate full-size autonomous cargo aircraft - capable of carrying two tons of payload ... As a Flight Test Engineer at Poseidon Aerospace, you will lead the planning, preparation, and ...

New

Our cargo aircraft enables remote connectivity, enhances express delivery networks, and ensures ... Pyka is looking for a flight test engineer to support the development and testing of its advanced ...

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... You will own control law work across VTOL, transition, and fixed wing flight. You will tune in ...

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... You will own control law work across VTOL, transition, and fixed wing flight. You will tune in ...

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long-range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017 ... You will own control law work across VTOL, transition, and fixed wing flight. You will tune in ...

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

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

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

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.

Showing results 21-40

Cargo Flight Engineer information

See salary details

$46.5K

$118.5K

$260.5K

How much do cargo flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 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 is a cargo flight engineer?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a cargo flight engineer?

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 challenges does a cargo flight engineer face 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 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.

Are cargo flight engineers in demand?

Cargo flight engineers are in demand in the aviation industry due to the growth of air freight transportation. They are essential for operating and maintaining cargo aircraft, often requiring specialized certifications and experience with aircraft systems. Job opportunities depend on airline needs, economic factors, and regional logistics demands.

How much does a cargo flight engineer get paid?

A cargo flight engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, airline, and location. They are responsible for aircraft systems and safety during flights, often working irregular hours and requiring specialized certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Cargo Flight Engineer jobs?

For Cargo Flight Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cargo Flight Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $118,512 per year, or $57 per hour.

GN&C Navigation Engineer III

Seattle, WA

Blue Origin
Space Research Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$164K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, test, and deploy navigation software for lunar spacecraft, including sensor I/O and state estimation algorithms.

  • Support the development and testing of navigation and sensor fusion algorithms, including component-level testing and on-vehicle testing.

  • Support flight operations through pre-flight planning, real-time monitoring, and post-flight analysis.


Blue Origin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of the Lunar Permanence business unit, which develops Blue Origin's Blue Moon landers and related products. To further Blue Origin's mission of millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth, we are building sustainable infrastructure for our transport of crew and cargo from Earth to the lunar surface.

As part of a hardworking team of spacecraft development engineers, you will directly contribute to the development and assembly of the Navigation system on multiple lunar missions. You willimpactthese systems by providing high quality engineering support by developing software and sensor integration solutions to complex navigation problems and developing these systems through the full lifecycle including flight operations. You will need to be proficient at cross-discipline interactions to ensure proper design solutions are compatible with design for manufacture and environmental conditions.Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and software development. Experience with simulation, mathematical modeling, data analysis, and technical writing and presentation preferred. Your efforts will further the design of Blue Origin versatile spacecraft that will serve a wide variety of customers. On this program, you will experience the full lifecycle frominitialarchitecture to flight ina short time, while achieving historic milestones!

We are looking for someone to apply their technicalexpertise, leadership skills, and commitment to quality to positivelyimpactthe safe human exploration of the solar system. Passion for our mission and vision isrequired!

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Design, develop, test, and deploy production navigation software for lunar spacecraft including sensor I/O and state estimation algorithms using C, C++, Rust, and Python

  • Support the developmentofnavigation and sensor fusion algorithms, and execute component-level test programs including sensor characterization, modeling, and integrated on-vehicle testing

  • Develop andmaintainnavigation simulation environments and perform system analysis including error budgets, sensitivity studies, and performance predictions

  • Interface with navigation hardware vendors to integrate sensors into spacecraft systems

  • Support flight operations including pre-flight planning, real-time monitoring, and post-flight analysis

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including GNC, Flight Software, Systems Engineering, and Operations

  • Embody the Blue Origin leadership principles

Minimum Qualifications:

  • M.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related STEM field with 5+ years of professional experience in navigation systems or related field

  • Strong programming skills in Rust, C++, or C

  • Shown experience in synthesis of state estimation algorithms and Kalman filters for spacecraft navigation, and experience with navigation sensors (IMUs, star trackers,optical sensors)

  • Understanding of spacecraft dynamics, kinematics, and coordinate systems

  • Ability to earn trust andmaintainpositive and professional relationships

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. with 3+ years of experienceyears of professional experience in navigation systems or related field

  • Experience with Rust for embedded or flight software development

  • Experience with Python for navigation analysis and algorithm development

  • Experience in development of navigation systems that include measurements from optical sensors

  • Experience with vision-aided navigation, computer vision, or sensor fusion algorithms

  • Experience with flight software development for spacecraft oraircraft, and hardware-in-the-loop testing

  • Knowledge of orbital mechanics, mission design, and flight operations support

  • Familiarity with DO-178C or similar software development standards


Base Pay Range for:

CA applicants is $164,652.00 - $230,512.80 CO applicants is $150,931.00 - $211,303.05 WA applicants is $164,652.00 - $230,512.80 VA applicants is $164,652.00 - $230,512.80

Other site ranges may differ


Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.


Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.


Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.


Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.



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About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000