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Civilian Flight Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$103K - $114K/yr

Overview Senior Flight Test Engineer LOCATION: Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability ... Work as part of a diverse team of contractor, military, and civilian experimental test pilots and ...

Astrion

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Overview Senior Flight Test Engineer LOCATION: Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability ... Work as part of a diverse team of contractor, military, and civilian experimental test pilots and ...

Hermeus

Test Pilot (Los Angeles)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Work with Hermeus engineering staff and technical editors to deliver flight manuals and other ... Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and ...

DRG

F15QA SIMULATOR/ACADEMIC INSTRUCTOR

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Bachelor's degree in aviation, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees are a ... civilian flight operations. * In-depth knowledge of Fighter aircraft systems, avionics, weapons ...

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Civilian Flight Engineer information

See salary details

$46.5K

$118.5K

$260.5K

How much do civilian flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for civilian 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 civilian flight engineer?

A Civilian Flight Engineer is responsible for monitoring and managing aircraft systems during flight, ensuring optimal performance and safety. They work alongside pilots to oversee fuel levels, engine performance, and mechanical systems. While this role is less common due to advancements in technology, it is still essential for certain aircraft that require manual system oversight. Civilian Flight Engineers typically work for cargo airlines, government agencies, or private aviation companies. They must have technical expertise, aviation experience, and often an FAA Flight Engineer certificate.

What does a civilian flight engineer do?

A typical day for a Civilian Flight Engineer involves conducting thorough pre-flight inspections, monitoring aircraft systems during flights, and collaborating closely with pilots and maintenance teams to ensure peak operational safety. You may also be responsible for diagnosing and resolving technical issues, maintaining detailed logs, and performing in-flight adjustments as needed. The work environment combines time in the cockpit during flights with hands-on technical work on the ground. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as you’ll regularly coordinate with other flight crew and ground support personnel to address any mechanical or system irregularities quickly. This dynamic role is ideal for those who enjoy a blend of technical challenges and critical decision-making in a fast-paced aviation setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civilian flight engineer?

To thrive as a Civilian Flight Engineer, you need a strong background in aviation systems, mechanical troubleshooting, and in-depth knowledge of aircraft operations, usually supported by relevant technical training or an engineering degree. Proficiency with flight management computers, diagnostic tools, and familiarity with regulatory standards (such as FAA certifications) is crucial. Standout soft skills include strong attention to detail, teamwork, clear communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. These skills ensure the safe and efficient monitoring and operation of complex aircraft systems in dynamic flight environments.

Are civilian flight engineers in demand?

Civilian flight engineers are in moderate demand, primarily in specialized sectors such as private, corporate, and government aircraft operations. The role requires technical skills, certifications, and experience with aircraft systems, and demand can vary based on industry needs and regional aviation activity.

How do I become a civilian flight engineer?

To become a civilian flight engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in aircraft systems and maintenance. Many employers prefer applicants with experience in aviation maintenance or related technical fields, and obtaining certifications such as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license can improve job prospects.

How much money do civilian flight engineers make?

Civilian flight engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. They work in aviation environments, often requiring specialized training and knowledge of aircraft systems.
More about Civilian Flight Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Civilian Flight Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Civilian Flight Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Civilian Flight Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Civilian Flight Engineer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Civilian Flight Engineer jobs look for?

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Civilian Flight Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civilian Flight Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,512 per year, or $57 per hour.

Air Traffic Assistant, Flight Data Communications Specialist

Department of Transportation

Longmont, CO

$61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

547th of 856 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Serves as an Air Traffic Assistant/Flight Data Communications Specialist (FDCS) at an Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) and is responsible for providing flight data processing and communications service for the National Airspace System (NAS).

Qualifications:

To qualify for this position you must demonstrate in your application that you possess at least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (FV-E or FG/GS-5/6). Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.

Specialized experience is described as knowledge of and skill in the use of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) air traffic control procedures. Qualifying specialized experience may have been gained in work such as:

  1. Civilian or military aircraft operations work, such as flight instructor, instrument rated pilot, flight engineer or air transport pilot;
  2. FAA Certified Dispatcher for an air carrier;
  3. Flight Information Expediter involved in determining flight times of airplanes and transmitting information to flight operations and command centers;
  4. Civilian or Military Air Traffic Controller; and;
  5. Flight Data Processor;

OR

  • Successful completion of an FAA or Military Air Traffic Control Training Program;

OR

  • Possession of an FAA Control Tower Operator Certificate.

Qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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