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Entry Level Flight Test Engineer Jobs in California

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Operator

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$77K - $120K/yr

Work with Test Engineers on a variety of operational tasks that enable engineering, such as flight execution, material prep, or supporting test profiles by participating in our demonstrations ...

Zipline

Flight Test Operator - Esparto,CA

Esparto, CA

$34 - $38/hr

You'll work at Zipline's test site(s) and coordinate closely with reliability engineering, software ... Own end-to-end daily flight test campaign execution - Acting as Remote Pilot in Command for Zipline ...

Zipline

Flight Test Operator - Esparto,CA

Esparto, CA · On-site

You'll work at Zipline's test site(s) and coordinate closely with reliability engineering, software ... Own end-to-end daily flight test campaign execution - Acting as Remote Pilot in Command for Zipline ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities * Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked * Complete all ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities * Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked * Complete all ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities * Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked * Complete all ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA

$222K - $286K/yr

Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities * Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked to provide design ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities * Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked to provide design ...

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Entry Level Flight Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$133.1K

$201.3K

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

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level flight test engineer in California is $133,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,100.00 and $157,900.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level flight test engineer?

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 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 most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Flight Test Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Flight Test Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $133,118 per year, or $64 per hour.

Production Flight Test Pilot I

Torrance, CA • On-site

Red Cat Holdings, Inc.
See more jobs at Red Cat Holdings, Inc.external

$26.50 - $43/hr

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
FlightWave is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Flight Test Pilot to support operational and quality control testing of our unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). We are a growing drone technology company focused on serving defense, public safety, and other government security organizations.
In this role, you'll support daily flight test operations - including vehicle preparation, mission execution, post-flight data collection, and issue resolution. While the job requires hands-on technician skills, it is primarily focused on flight testing and flying - making it ideal for someone with strong UAV experience and a passion for flight operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Conduct functional testing and quality control flights for new and production aircraft
  • Operate as a remote pilot or visual observer during flight test operations
  • Prepare UAS platforms for flight, including pre-flight inspections and setup of ground control equipment
  • Identify, document, and help troubleshoot technical issues found during flight testing
  • Maintain detailed records of flights, test results, and any discrepancies
  • Work closely with engineers to provide feedback on system performance, reliability, and usability
  • Assist with basic repairs, calibrations, and hardware swaps as needed
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Required Qualifications
  • 2 years of Drone Pilot Experience (Hobby or Commercial)
  • 300 hours of verifiable commercial drone experience
  • Hands-on experience operating and flying both quadrotor and fixed-wing UAS platforms
  • Familiarity with basic electronics, tools, wiring, and mechanical systems
  • Strong attention to detail, process discipline, and documentation habits
  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Additional Desired Qualifications
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a technical field
  • Experience with PX4, ArduPilot, or similar flight control systems
  • Prior experience supporting structured flight test or engineering test programs
  • Familiarity with GCS tools like QGroundControl or Mission Planner
  • Basic knowledge of telemetry systems, log analysis, or test instrumentation
  • Military or government flight operations experience is a plus

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varied field environments, including heat and direct sun exposure.
  • Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and move across uneven terrain for extended periods.
  • Requires fine motor skills for equipment setup, wiring, and mechanical adjustments.
  • Visual acuteness needed for both close detail work and monitoring aircraft in flight.
  • Must be able to hear and communicate clearly in dynamic test environments, including over radios or comms equipment.

Background Check
This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.
EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure
Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.
E-Verify
The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.
Compensation: $26.50 - $43, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.

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