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Flight Controller Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Arcfield

Flight Software Engineer III

Louisville, CO · On-site

$60 - $80.75/hr

Flight Software Engineer III leads the development, integration, and maintenance for complex ground ... Experience with space processing architecture encompassing micro-controllers, processors, system-on ...

Industrious Ventures

Lead Mission Director

Golden, CO · On-site

$130 - $170/hr

... controlling all the activities of a multi-displine, integrated team. The LTV Mission Director role ... Lead a flight operations team and make decisions regarding the safety and success of human ...

Lunar Outpost

Lead Mission Director

Arvada, CO · On-site

... controlling all the activities of a multi-discipline, integrated team. The LTV Mission Director ... Lead a flight operations team and make decisions regarding the safety and success of human ...

Lunar Outpost, Inc.

Lead Mission Director

Arvada, CO · On-site

$187K - $235K/yr

... controlling all the activities of a multi-discipline, integrated team. The LTV Mission Director ... Lead a flight operations team and make decisions regarding the safety and success of human ...

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All JobsFlight Controller JobsFlight Controller Jobs in Colorado

Flight Controller information

See Colorado salary details

$57.8K

$125.7K

$184.5K

How much do flight controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight controller in Colorado is $125,653.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,000.00 and $145,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight controller?

Flight controllers are highly trained professionals who monitor and manage the operations of spacecraft from mission control centers on Earth. They are responsible for tracking the spacecraft's systems, solving technical problems, and ensuring the safety and success of the mission. Flight controllers work closely with astronauts, engineers, and other specialists to make real-time decisions during space missions. Their roles can vary, including positions like guidance, navigation, communications, and life support monitoring. The job requires excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to perform under pressure.

What are the main responsibilities of a flight controller during a live mission, and how do they coordinate with other teams?

During a live mission, Flight Controllers are responsible for monitoring specific spacecraft systems or mission phases, analyzing data in real time, and making rapid decisions to ensure mission safety and success. They work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and communicate constantly with other controllers and the Flight Director to troubleshoot issues and implement procedures. Collaboration is key, as each controller relies on input from colleagues specializing in propulsion, navigation, communications, and other areas to maintain situational awareness and respond effectively to unexpected events.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Controller, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree and specialized training. Familiarity with mission control systems, simulation software, and real-time data monitoring tools is essential. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure safe and efficient mission operations, quick decision-making, and effective teamwork in high-stakes environments.

What is the difference between Flight Controller vs Drone Pilot?

AspectFlight ControllerDrone Pilot
CertificationsFAA Part 107, Remote Pilot CertificateFAA Part 107, Remote Pilot Certificate
Work EnvironmentOnboard drone, embedded systemOperating drone remotely, in various locations
Industry UsageAutonomous flight, UAV systemsCommercial, recreational drone operation
Primary RoleControl drone's flight systemOperate drone during missions

While a Flight Controller manages the drone's onboard systems and autonomous flight functions, a Drone Pilot actively operates the drone remotely. Both roles often require similar certifications and work within the UAV industry, but their responsibilities differ: one focuses on system management, the other on piloting the drone during missions.

Are flight controllers getting paid?

Flight controllers are typically paid salaries or hourly wages, with compensation varying based on experience, location, and the industry they work in. They often require specialized training and certifications, and their pay can include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How do I become a flight controller?

To become a flight controller, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aviation, aerospace, or a related field, along with relevant experience in air traffic control or aviation operations. Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or equivalent authority is often required, and strong communication, decision-making, and multitasking skills are essential. Training programs and on-the-job experience are also important for career advancement in this role.

How much money does a flight controller make?

A flight controller's salary varies depending on experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $120,000 annually. Experienced controllers working in high-pressure environments or with specialized certifications can earn higher wages, and many work shifts that include nights and weekends.

Is it difficult to get hired as a flight controller?

Getting hired as a flight controller can be competitive, as it requires specialized training, certifications, and often experience in aviation or air traffic management. Candidates typically need to pass rigorous assessments, background checks, and demonstrate strong decision-making skills in high-pressure environments.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Controller jobs in Colorado?

For Flight Controller jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Controller jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Controller jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Flight Controller jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Flight Controller job openings:

Flight Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Controller job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $125,653 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Embedded Firmware & Flight Control Engineer

University of Colorado

Boulder, CO • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

University Of Colorado Boulder rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

147th of 620 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Summary
The Bio-Inspired Perception and Robotics Laboratory (BPRL) is seeking an Embedded Firmware and Flight Control Engineer. The successful candidate will design and implement novel bio-inspired flight control architectures (inner and outer loop) on aerial platforms and execute flight demonstrations for stakeholders. The engineer will help bridge the gap between theoretical controller design, development, and implementation of aerial platform on-board hardware and software. They will also help to implement and troubleshoot custom control architectures, and act as the point person for demonstrations showcasing advanced UAS capabilities, including computer vision, sensor fusion, navigation, ensuring every demonstration is safe, reliable, and representative of the technologies being showcased.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
The Bio-Inspired Perception and Robotics Laboratory (BPRL) is a facility in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Robotics Graduate Program at the University of Colorado, Boulder that conducts research and development in the areas of field robotics and biologically inspired robotics. We seek to distill the fundamental sensing, processing and feedback principles that govern robust behavior in organisms to enable new classes of robotic systems with improved agility, locomotion and autonomy.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
The successful candidate will design, write, and test low-level C++ code on microcontrollers/microprocessors, write custom control architecture code and tune control loops for desired flight performance, troubleshoot circuit boards and communication protocols (CAN, I2C, UART, etc.), and configure real-time operating systems (RTOS). The candidate will also be responsible for setting up, launching, and executing flight demonstrations for stakeholders.
What We Can Offer
The annual salary range for this appointment will be $70,000 - $80,000.
Benefits
At the University of Colorado Boulder , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.
Be Statements
Be strategic. Be impactful. Be Boulder.
What We Require
PhD in engineering, robotics, or computer science.
What You Will Need
  • Experience with embedded C++ (&RTOS), python, Ardupilot, PX4, ROS2.
  • Hands-on experience with low-level interfaces including CAN, SPI, I2C, and UART.
  • Solid grasp of control theory, PID/modern feedback loops, and state estimation filters (Kalman filters, Extended State/Error-State Kalman Filters).
  • Hands-on experience implementing and deploying embedded custom controllers onboard flight platforms (e.g. quadrotors).
  • Experience piloting drones and working with motion capture systems and data.
  • Understanding of internet protocols, with networking experience working with multi-device systems.

Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
  1. Resume/CV.
  2. Cover Letter.
  3. (Optional) Transcripts/Proof of Degree: If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources Department using an approved online vendor. However, if your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version (if applicable) as an Optional document.

During the application process, you will be asked to provide the name and email address for one reference, from whom we will request a letter of recommendation immediately following the submission of your completed application.
Please apply by October 15, 2026 for consideration.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs .
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

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