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Engineer Autonomous Flight Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elroy Air

Flight Test Engineer

Byron, CA · On-site

You'll architect and execute flight test programs that push the boundaries of autonomous flight systems, working with engineers, pilots, and technicians to validate performance in real-world ...

Elroy Air

Flight Test Engineer

Byron, CA · On-site

$123K - $187.50K/yr

You'll architect and execute flight test programs that push the boundaries of autonomous flight systems, working with engineers, pilots, and technicians to validate performance in real-world ...

Elroy Air

Flight Test Engineer

Byron, CA

$123K - $187.50K/yr

You'll architect and execute flight test programs that push the boundaries of autonomous flight systems, working with engineers, pilots, and technicians to validate performance in real-world ...

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Engineer Autonomous Flight information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do engineer autonomous flight jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer autonomous flight in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Engineer Autonomous Flight, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, robotics, control systems, and programming, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB/Simulink), autopilot systems, sensor integration, and certifications in UAV technologies are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective teamwork, and clear communication set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing safe, reliable, and innovative autonomous flight systems that meet industry standards and operational requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by an Engineer in Autonomous Flight, and how can they be addressed?

Engineers in Autonomous Flight often encounter challenges related to integrating complex software and hardware systems, ensuring reliability and safety in unpredictable environments, and meeting rigorous regulatory standards. Addressing these issues requires strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including software developers, hardware engineers, and regulatory specialists. Staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, sensor technology, and aviation regulations also helps engineers anticipate and solve emerging problems efficiently.

What does an Engineer Autonomous Flight do?

An Engineer Autonomous Flight designs, develops, and tests systems that enable aircraft, such as drones or advanced air vehicles, to fly without direct human control. They focus on creating algorithms, integrating sensors, and ensuring the aircraft can navigate, avoid obstacles, and complete missions safely and efficiently. Their work involves collaboration with hardware and software teams, as well as staying updated on aviation regulations and safety standards. This role is crucial for advancing technologies like delivery drones, urban air mobility, and unmanned aerial vehicles used in various industries.

What is the difference between Engineer Autonomous Flight vs Engineer Drone Systems?

AspectEngineer Autonomous FlightEngineer Drone Systems
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace, robotics, or related fields; certifications in UAV or autonomous systemsBachelor's or higher in electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering; certifications in drone technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace companies, autonomous vehicle development centersDrone manufacturing, testing facilities, field operations
Industry UsageDesigning and developing autonomous flight algorithms and systemsDeveloping drone hardware, software, and operational systems

Both roles involve working with unmanned systems, but Engineer Autonomous Flight focuses on creating autonomous flight capabilities and algorithms, while Engineer Drone Systems emphasizes hardware and software development for drones. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and focus within the UAV industry.

Infographic showing various Engineer Autonomous Flight job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Autonomy & Flight Controls Engineer

XTI Aerospace

Coatesville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About XTI Aerospace
XTI aerospace is an advanced aviation company developing the TriFan 600, a next-generation vertical takeoff and landing aircraft designed to transform regional air travel.
Through its acquisition of Drone Nerds, a leading U.S. enterprise drone solutions provider, XTI is expanding into the broader unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) market-building a comprehensive platform across both manned and autonomous flight.
Together, XTI is shaping the future of the Vertical Economy™, combining cutting-edge aircraft design with real-world drone operations and services.
Role Overview
The Autonomy & Flight Controls Engineer is responsible for designing and implementing advanced flight control systems for commercial and military aircraft, including autonomous flight capabilities. Expertise in model-based design, simulation, and integration of adaptive control algorithms to enhance safety, control and stability, and level IV autonomy. This Engineer will be responsible to set requirements for autonomous components and software, and have detailed knowledge of the autonomy ecosystem in order to select the best components and suppliers to support the mission.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design and optimize flight control algorithms for next-generation UAVs, enabling autonomous takeoff, navigation, and landing
  • Generate Systems architecture for flight controls with autonomy
  • Must have experience using 6DOF models to generate flight control algorithms.
  • Perform source selection for flight and autonomous hardware and software
  • Lead team in simulating and testing flight dynamics to validate autonomous control performance.
  • Integrate flight control systems with avionics and navigation for seamless autonomous operation
  • Develop fault detection and isolation algorithms to improve reliability of autonomous systems
  • Conducted risk assessments and reliability analysis for autonomous flight control systems
  • Conduct risk assessments and reliability analysis for flight vehicles.

Qualifications
  • A minimum of 10 years of UAV flight controls design and optimization experience
  • A minimum of 7 years experience flight and adaptive controls design
  • A minimum of 5 years experience in autonomy design
  • Utilize MATLAB and Simulink for model-based design and analysis.
  • Must have software development background.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Past experience designing flight control systems for UAV's
  • Past experience in flight testing of manned and un-manned UAV systems
  • Must have or be able to obtain an FAA part 107 pilot's certification.
  • Previous experience testing controls in a simulator using Xplane or similar software.

Skills and Education
  • Degree in aerospace Engineering or equivalent (Master's degree preferred)

At XTI Aerospace, we are driven by innovation and the desire to reshape the future of air mobility. If you are passionate about cutting-edge aerospace technology and eager to make an impact on projects like the TriFan 600, we invite you to join our dynamic team. We offer a competitive benefits package, a collaborative work environment, and the opportunity to be at the forefront of sustainable aviation.
XTI Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
To apply, please submit your resume outlining your qualifications and experience. We look forward to exploring how you can contribute to our journey toward a more sustainable and innovative future in aviation.
Note to Recruiters: XTI Aerospace does not accept unsolicited resumes or referrals from placement agencies, staffing vendors or other external parties seeking recruiting fees without a signed formal agreement.

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