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Cargo Flight Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skyways

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.

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.

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 ...

Ag

A320 Family MAP Cabin & Cargo Engineer

Mobile, AL · On-site

Aircraft Flight Line Readiness & Test Integration: Provide hands-on systems engineering support ... Cargo perimeter. * Airworthiness Accountability: Secure and guarantee absolute compliance with ...

Kalitta Air, Llc

Loadmaster

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

... all required cargo door sill guards, anti-tipping equipment, installed nets, smoke barriers; reports any discrepancies to the Flight Maintenances Engineer (FME) and to Maintenance Department ...

Kalitta Air, LLC

Loadmaster

Ypsilanti, MI · On-site

... all required cargo door sill guards, anti-tipping equipment, installed nets, smoke barriers; reports any discrepancies to the Flight Maintenances Engineer (FME) and to Maintenance Department ...

InvestedintheMission

... cargo from Earth to the lunar surface. As part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will join ... Develop and sustain flight control algorithms for spacecraft operating complex missions * Perform ...

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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 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.

Aeronautical Test Engineer

Burlington, MA • On-site, Remote

Enigma Aerospace
See more jobs at Enigma Aerospaceexternal

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Enigma Aerospace is seeking an Aeronautical Test Engineer to lead the analysis and testing of our next-generation, runway-independent autonomous fixed-wing aircraft. This role will involve significant contributions to aircraft design through analysis, simulation and testing of aircraft and flight subsystems from the benchtop, to ground test, through flight testing, ensuring our aircraft perform as expected and is ready for inclusion in demonstrations, exercises, and sustained flight operations.

This is a cross-functional position that spans aircraft design and analysis, flight test, flight software modifications, avionics/telemetry, instrumentation, and system integration. You'll work alongside software, avionics, systems, and other engineering teams to ensure our flight systems are ready for complex, real-world operations.

Responsibilities
  • Plan and execute performance and GNC/ flight control laws optimization for fixed-wing aircraft.
  • Plan and implement engineering and flight test plans and procedures for component, ground, taxi, and flight operations based on aircraft design requirements and software changes.
  • Instrument aircraft with sensors, data acquisition, and telemetry systems; validate calibration and data integrity.
  • Analyze post-flight data, generate reports, and provide actionable feedback to design and systems teams.
  • Work with controls, avionics, propulsion, and systems engineers to align test objectives with performance requirements.
  • Participate in integration, repair, and fabrication of aircraft and sub-systems.
  • Feed flight data, analyses and insights to aircraft design teams and processes.
  • Conduct safety reviews, risk assessments, and test readiness reviews.
  • Contribute to development and maintenance of engineering, regulatory and operational documentation.
  • Travel up to 25% of time.
Desired Qualifications
  • BS/MS or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Controls, or a related field.
  • Strong understanding of aircraft dynamics and flight controls.
  • 7+ years of experience in aerospace and flight test engineering, or related field specifically on fixed-wing, autonomous aircraft systems.
  • Strong & demonstrated knowledge and experience with GNC/ Flight control law software including open source software such as PX4 and Ardupilot.
  • Hands-on experience with fixed-wing aircraft flying and/or testing (manned or unmanned).
  • Proficiency with data acquisition and analysis software, scripting and tools (MATLAB, Python or similar) and telemetry/DAQ systems.
  • Knowledge of flight test regulations, safety protocols, and UAS operational requirements.
  • Must be eligible to work in the U.S without company sponsorship and ability to receive and hold government security clearances.
  • Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
Great to have Qualifications and Skills
  • Experience supporting experimental flight test programs at startups or R&D organizations.
  • Familiarity with flight control systems, avionics, propulsion, autopilots.
  • FAA Part 107 certification or piloting experience.
  • Experience with system modeling tools or HIL/SIL environments.
  • Interest in operating at the boundary of software and hardware in a fast-paced startup.
  • Knowledge of industry (ASTM) and FAA/DoD experimental test standards.
  • You are a systems thinker who can balance performance, safety, and complexity.
  • You are mission-oriented, detail-driven, and excited to move quickly from design analysis to test design to flight.

Benefits, Equity, & Work Location

Enigma Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package including generous healthcare with the option to include an HSA, a 401k plan with a company match component, unlimited PTO, flexible work-from-home policies, stock options, free parking on-site, and a well-stocked snacks and coffee environment.

This position is eligible for equity compensation.

Our headquarters is currently located in Burlington, MA. This position is primarily on-site with an expectation that commuting to our test sites will be required often.

About Enigma Aerospace

Enigma Aerospace is building the next-generation autonomous air cargo solution for military and commercial markets. By combining a novel fixed-wing aircraft design with advanced mission and flight autonomy software, Enigma enables runway-independent resupply in vast, contested theaters and dramatically reduces the cost of commercial cargo delivery. Our technologies deliver charter-level performance at freight prices, redefining what's possible in the $150B air cargo market.

Headquartered in Burlington, MA, Enigma is a venture-backed company founded by UAS and logistics experts, including a U.S. Air Force veteran. The founding team brings experience from leading organizations such as American Robotics, Airobotics, Exponent, the United States Air Force, Parsons, DIU, and Apple.

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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