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Flight Controller Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Lead Increment Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Develop, gather, and integrate ISS mission objectives/requirements with NASA engineers/flight controllers and International Partners (ESA, JAXA, CSA, and RSC-E) * Manage the development of the ...

Lead Increment Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Develop, gather, and integrate ISS mission objectives/requirements with NASA engineers/flight controllers and International Partners (ESA, JAXA, CSA, and RSC-E) * Manage the development of the ...

Supv Ramp Services

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

About WFS Join our Worldwide Flight Services family and contribute to the timely delivery of cargo ... and controlling airport activities for both Ramp Services and Passenger Service functions (as ...

Quality Assurance Specialist

Houston, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

X requirements, controlled storage, calibrated tooling). * Validate cleanroom process documentation ... Perform receiving inspection on flight and non-flight aerospace products and support equipment in ...

Quality Assurance Specialist

Houston, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

X requirements, controlled storage, calibrated tooling). * Validate cleanroom process documentation ... Perform receiving inspection on flight and non-flight aerospace products and support equipment in ...

Aircraft Captain

Houston, TX · On-site

$220K - $269K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

You'll lead flight crews, ensure operational excellence, and uphold the highest standards of safety ... Monitor instruments, communicate with air traffic controllers, and steer the aircraft, making ...

Quality Assurance Specialist

Houston, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

X requirements, controlled storage, calibrated tooling). * Validate cleanroom process documentation ... Perform receiving inspection on flight and non-flight aerospace products and support equipment in ...

Quality Assurance Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

X requirements, controlled storage, calibrated tooling). * Validate cleanroom process documentation ... Perform receiving inspection on flight and non-flight aerospace products and support equipment in ...

Quality Assurance Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

X requirements, controlled storage, calibrated tooling). * Validate cleanroom process documentation ... Perform receiving inspection on flight and non-flight aerospace products and support equipment in ...

Quality Assurance Specialist

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

X requirements, controlled storage, calibrated tooling). * Validate cleanroom process documentation ... Perform receiving inspection on flight and non-flight aerospace products and support equipment in ...

Air Traffic Controllers (15Q)

Houston, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

You'll control airborne and ground traffic for safety, process flight plan data, and you will help set up tactical air traffic control facilities on the front lines, ensuring the safety of every ...

Showing results 21-40

Flight Controller information

See Houston, TX salary details

$52.5K

$114.1K

$167.6K

How much do flight controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight controller in Houston, TX is $114,116.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,600.00 and $132,300.00 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 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.

How do you become a flight controller?

To become a flight controller, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aviation, air traffic management, or a related field. They must complete specialized training provided by aviation authorities and pass certification exams, gaining experience through simulations and on-the-job training. Strong communication, decision-making skills, and knowledge of aviation regulations are essential.

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.

Are flight controllers getting paid?

Flight controllers are typically paid salaries or hourly wages, with compensation varying based on experience, location, and the industry sector such as air traffic control or drone operations. They often require specialized training and certifications, and their pay can include benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.

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 the job often requires working in shifts and using advanced communication tools.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Controller jobs in Houston, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Flight Controller jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Controller jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Flight Controller jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Flight Controller job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Controller job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,116 per year, or $54.9 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Barrios Technology is an engineering solutions partner with more than 45 years of experience supporting NASA and the commercial space industry. We deliver innovative engineering, software, and technology integration services nationwide. Barrios fosters a people-focused culture that values creativity, diversity, professional growth, and a healthy work–life balance.

We are seeking Flight Software Engineers to help create next generation commercial space capabilities. Working alongside our commercial spaceflight partners, you will develop software for emerging spaceflight systems and their supporting infrastructure.


The Flight Software Engineer will:

  • Design, develop, and test flight software that will operate critical, cutting-edge spaceflight systems
  • Own the full software lifecycle, including design, implementation, testing, deployment, and operational support
  • Collaborate with hardware engineers and subsystem teams to support successful hardware/software integration, design trades, and integrated testing
  • Perform analysis and verification of software performance for integrated hardware/software systems, including hands-on debugging using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and signal measurement tools
  • Contribute to risk identification, fault analysis, and mitigation activities associated with flight software design
  • Conduct hardware-in-the-loop testing and interact directly with embedded systems in laboratory and test environments to validate system behavior and performance
  • Contribute to Agile development cycles, including planning, integration, and verification activities
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support system-level integration and troubleshooting
  • Provide technical input during major milestones and program reviews
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Required Education/Experience/Skills:

  • BS degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Technology, or Math, from an accredited school and five (5) years of related software development experience
  • Strong proficiency in object-oriented programming (e.g., C/C++)
  • Experience with firmware, embedded software, and hardware/software integration
  • Hands-on experience debugging embedded systems in lab environments using electronic test equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, logic analyzers)
  • Experience with serial communication protocols (e.g., RS-232, RS-422, RS-485)
  • Experience with packet-based communication protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP/IP)
  • Experience with Git-based platforms (e.g., GitLab, GitHub)
  • Experience independently collaborating on cross-disciplinary engineering teams
  • Strong communication, coordination, and presentation skills

Preferences:

  • Experience supporting human spaceflight or exploration programs
  • Experience with embedded software frameworks
  • Experience with device driver development
  • Experience with SpaceWire or similar space communication protocols
  • Experience with logging frameworks and software diagnostics architecture
  • Experience with unit testing frameworks (e.g., xUnit)
  • Experience with Windows and POSIX-based operating systems
  • Experience with containerization (e.g., Docker)
  • Experience in Agile/Scrum development environments
  • Familiarity with CMMI frameworks
  • MS degree in a STEM field

Essential Requirements 

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and successfully complete a U.S. government background investigation.
  • Applicant selected may be subject to government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
  • Work may involve sitting for extended periods.
  • May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lb.
  • Must have sufficient mobility to enter areas of test facilities where necessary.
  • Generally, an office environment but can involve inside or outside work depending on task.
  • Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, fax, etc.)
  • Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical.
  • Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements when required.
  • Must be able to work in a team atmosphere.
  • Must put forward a professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation.
  • Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.
  • This position may require some commuting and traveling to other installations as needed.

 Don’t miss out on this great opportunity; for immediate consideration, apply now!

Barrios Technology is a drug-free workplace, which is imperative to the health and safety of all employees and is required as a condition of receiving contracts from federal agencies. Please remember that regardless of the legalization of marijuana in several states, possession and use continues to be illegal under the federal Controlled Substances Act. This includes the use of some CBD products. A post-offer, pre-employment drug test is a condition of employment.

Barrios Technology is an Equal Employment Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.