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First Flight Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Antramo, Inc

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

The ideal candidate is an experienced flight test engineer with expertise in experimental aircraft development, particularly first flight operations. The role involves working closely with ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Experience with first flight efforts of experimental aircraft. * Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems. * Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

Experience with first flight efforts of experimental aircraft. * Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems. * Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

Experience with first flight efforts of experimental aircraft. * Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems. * Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

Experience with first flight efforts of experimental aircraft. * Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems. * Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft ...

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First Flight information

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$14

$27

$46

How much do first flight jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for first flight in California is $27.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Officer (Airline Pilot), and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Officer, you need a commercial pilot license (CPL), strong understanding of aviation regulations, and proven flight experience. Proficiency with advanced avionics, flight management systems, and aircraft-specific simulators is typically required. Exceptional decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills help you manage cockpit responsibilities and coordinate with crew members. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations.

What are some challenges that First Flight attendants commonly face during their shifts, and how can new hires prepare for them?

First Flight attendants often encounter challenges such as managing passenger safety, handling difficult customer situations, and adapting to irregular schedules. New hires can prepare by developing strong communication skills, practicing patience under pressure, and becoming familiar with safety protocols. Building resilience and staying adaptable are key to thriving in this fast-paced environment, where teamwork and effective collaboration with pilots and other crew members are essential for a smooth flight operation.

What are First Flight jobs?

First Flight jobs typically refer to positions involved in the operation, coordination, and support of an aircraft’s inaugural flight or the early stages of a new airline or aviation company's operations. These roles can include pilots, flight attendants, ground crew, maintenance technicians, and administrative staff who ensure that a new route, aircraft, or service is launched safely and efficiently. Employees in these positions play a critical role in establishing procedures, maintaining safety standards, and providing excellent customer service during the initial phase of operations. Working on a first flight can be exciting and challenging, as it often involves troubleshooting unforeseen issues and adapting quickly to new protocols.

What is the difference between First Flight vs Flight Attendant?

AspectFirst FlightFlight Attendant
Required CertificationsBasic safety training, airline-specific certificationSafety training, customer service certification
Work EnvironmentAirport ground operations, airline training centersIn-flight, airports, customer service roles
Industry UsageEntry-level role for new airline staffIn-flight service and passenger safety

First Flight typically refers to the initial flight experience or training for airline staff, whereas Flight Attendant is a role focused on passenger service and safety during flights. While both roles involve airline operations, First Flight is often associated with training or the first time flying, and Flight Attendant is a specific job position within the airline industry.

What are popular job titles related to First Flight jobs in California? For First Flight jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Flight jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Flight jobs in California are:
First Flight jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Flight job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,100 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

Antramo, Inc

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

About the job Flight Test Engineer
Flight Test Engineer
About Our Client
Our Client is an aerospace research and development company focused on building the next generation of airships that are safer, more environmentally friendly, and capable than ever before.
They are seeking motivated, hands-on Flight Test Engineer to join the dynamic team of engineers, designers, and technicians who bring complex ideas to reality. This is an opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields
About The Role
The Senior Flight Test Engineer will play a critical role in the planning, execution, and analysis of flight test campaigns for a next-generation rigid airship. This position requires hands-on experience in flight test operations, system integration, and data analysis. The ideal candidate is an experienced flight test engineer with expertise in experimental aircraft development, particularly first flight operations. The role involves working closely with engineering teams, flight test pilots, safety personnel, and program managers to ensure the successful execution of test flights in accordance with FAA safety standards and regulatory requirements.
The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans & test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship limitations, lead ground & flight tests, perform data analysis, write test reports, and document test results. This position will also contribute to the development and review of the Airship Flight Manual (AFM) and other operational documents by collaborating with multiple teams to provide pertinent information.
Responsibilities
  • Produce test documentation such as test plans, hazard analyses and test cards.
  • Assist with the preparation of operational documentation.
  • Participate in test readiness and safety reviews.
  • Collaborate with engineers, test pilots, and operations team to accomplish test objectives safely and efficiently.
  • Lead test briefings/debriefings, and coordinate with all support groups.
  • Direct flight test operations either onboard an airship or from the telemetry room.
  • Perform post-flight data analysis as required.
  • Prepare flight test reports and communicate non-conformance items and 'squawks'.
  • Other duties may be assigned.
  • Travel - Occasional.

Qualifications
  • 3+ years of experimental flight test experience.
  • Bachelor's or higher degree in an applicable engineering field.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Class 3 medical certificate (or better).
  • Familiarity with aircraft systems and operations.
  • Proficiency in test planning, and drafting THAs and aircraft operating procedures.
  • Ability to learn and to lead the development and execution of complex flight tests.
  • Strong technical and analytical skills, as well as attention to detail.
  • Understanding of flight test instrumentation.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Graduate of a recognized test pilot school.
  • Private Pilot or higher rating.
  • Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools.
  • Aptitude with Python coding.
  • Experience with first flight efforts of experimental aircraft.
  • Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems.
  • Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft performance.
  • Understanding of human factors and cockpit design.
  • Experience in FAA certification test programs and knowledge of FARs.

Compensation & Benefits
  • $85,000 - $140,000/year
  • Relocation assistance
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
  • Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
  • Parental leave
  • Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
  • 401(k) matching up to 6%
  • Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
  • Monthly wellness stipend
  • Monthly cell phone stipend
  • Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
  • Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
  • An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields

Compliance Requirements
  • Criminal background check clearance
  • Drug test clearance wherever applicable
  • Applicant must be able to obtain a NASA Moffett Federal Airfield AOA Badge

Apply