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Entry Level Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Arizona

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Yuma, AZ · Remote

$91K - $125K/yr

Flight test engineering * UAS operations within the National Airspace System beyond Part 107 * Standard operating procedures development * Basic CAD and manufacturing experience * Systems engineering

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Yuma, AZ · Remote

$91K - $125K/yr

Flight test engineering * UAS operations within the National Airspace System beyond Part 107 * Standard operating procedures development * Basic CAD and manufacturing experience * Systems engineering

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Entry Level Flight Test Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$40.5K

$125.7K

$190.1K

How much do entry level flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level flight test engineer in Arizona is $125,697.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,300.00 and $149,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Entry Level Flight Test Engineer do?

An Entry Level Flight Test Engineer supports the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for aircraft and aerospace systems. They assist in developing test plans, collecting data, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards. This role involves working closely with senior engineers, pilots, and technicians to validate aircraft functionality and system performance. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a foundational understanding of aerodynamics and avionics are essential.

What types of projects or aircraft could I expect to work on as an Entry Level Flight Test Engineer?

As an Entry Level Flight Test Engineer, you may work on a variety of flight test campaigns, ranging from testing new aircraft prototypes to evaluating modifications on existing platforms, such as fixed-wing airplanes, helicopters, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Early in your career, your responsibilities may include supporting instrumentation setup, assisting in mission planning, and collecting and analyzing test data under the guidance of senior engineers. You’ll likely rotate through different project teams, gaining exposure to various flight systems, test protocols, and data analysis techniques. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the full aircraft development and certification process while supporting your professional growth in the aerospace field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Flight Test Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Flight Test Engineer, you need a background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, a solid understanding of aerodynamics and data analysis, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with data acquisition systems, control theory, flight simulation software, and sometimes certification in FAA or military testing protocols are important technical aspects. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These abilities ensure safe, accurate testing and successful collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, which are crucial for developing and validating aircraft performance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in Arizona? For Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Entry Level Flight Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Flight Test Engineer job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,697 per year, or $60.4 per hour.
Flight Research Remote Pilot

Flight Research Remote Pilot

Joby Aviation

Yuma, AZ • Remote

$91K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Joby Flight Research designs, develops, and flight-tests novel aircraft using a software-first autonomy approach. We build and deploy autonomy, perception, planning, and radar systems across conventional, electric, and hydrogen-electric aircraft in both CTOL and VTOL configurations.


Joby Aviation’s Flight Research team is looking for an experienced remote pilot to operate research and development UAS platforms. Drawing on past experience operating medium to large UAS, the role will fulfill pilot command duties in support of flight test operations in the National Airspace System. Joining a small, fast moving team this position will support additional responsibilities and tasks such as hands on work with the aircraft and ground support equipment, upholding standard operating procedures, and support pre and post test activities with engineers.


  • Act as the remote pilot in command for various R&D aircraft platforms
  • Conduct preflight planning and inspections of the system
  • Support test planning and take part in test rehearsals
  • Post flight reports, internal and external
  • Collaborate with other crewmembers in preparation, execution, and post test activities
  • Provide detailed feedback and recommendations for system improvements
  • Uphold standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements
  • Uphold a strong safety culture

  • Part 61 Private Pilot certificate with Instrument rating
  • Pat 107 Remote Pilot certificate
  • Current Class 3 medical
  • Experience operating Group 3 + UAS
  • Experience with manual (non-GPS) and/or augmented flight modes using a traditional RC controller interface for conventional takeoff and landing aircraft
  • Fully automated remote flight
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience and training
  • At least 3 years of relevant experience
  • Significant UAS experience. Depending on platforms, >300 hrs >200 sorties
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
  • Read and speak English proficiently

  • Part 61 Commercial pilot certificate
  • Support of new aircraft or systems development
  • Acceptance testing experience
  • Flight test engineering
  • UAS operations within the National Airspace System beyond Part 107
  • Standard operating procedures development
  • Basic CAD and manufacturing experience
  • Systems engineering
  • A&P or similar experience
  • Aircraft, ground station, and/or subsystem design and build

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $91,100 - $125,300/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.


Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

This position must meet US export control compliance requirements, therefore a candidate must qualify as a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15. “US Person” includes US Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer