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Flight Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Percepto

UAS Repair & Test Specialist

Midland, TX · On-site

Utilize a diverse technical stack, including Linux, Flight Controller/Stabilizer GUIs, and task management tools (Jira, Monday.com, Confluence), to facilitate daily workflows. System Testing ...

KIHOMAC

Journeyman Assembly Technician

Layton, UT · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Familiarity with flight controller configuration software (e.g., Betaflight, ArduPilot, PX4). * Experience with 3D printing, CNC equipment, or composite materials. * Understanding of UAV components ...

Percepto

UAS Repair & Test Specialist

Midland, TX · On-site

Utilize a diverse technical stack, including Linux, Flight Controller/Stabilizer GUIs, and task management tools (Jira, Monday.com, Confluence), to facilitate daily workflows. System Testing ...

KIHOMAC

Journeyman Assembly Technician

Layton, UT · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Familiarity with flight controller configuration software (e.g., Betaflight, ArduPilot, PX4). * Experience with 3D printing, CNC equipment, or composite materials. * Understanding of UAV components ...

Anduril

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA

$220K - $292K/yr

Integrate new features and sensors into flight controller software. * Integrate guidance and control algorithms with the flight software stack. * Create Software-In-The-Loop (SITL) and Hardware-In ...

KIHOMAC

Journeyman Assembly Technician

Layton, UT · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Familiarity with flight controller configuration software (e.g., Betaflight, ArduPilot, PX4). * Experience with 3D printing, CNC equipment, or composite materials. * Understanding of UAV components ...

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Flight Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do flight controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 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.
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What states have the most Flight Controller jobs?

States with the most job openings for Flight Controller jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Flight Controller jobs are:

Flight Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Controller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Flight Test Operator

Anduril Industries

San Clemente, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,541 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

This position will be filled with a highly motivated Flight Test Operator with a passion for flying small uncrewed rotary aircraft in support of flight test operations. You will work heavily with test team members in a wide spectrum of cross-department Ghost programs to assist the teams focused on solving hard problems and changing the industry forever. The role will be responsible for assisting program leads, planning, coordination, execution of flight test operations.
The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril works across the entire spectrum of products and business lines, as well as all flight operations and test range management. Our team conducts full system level development testing, new production acceptance testing, sub-component qualification testing and much more. In short, if it involves test, we support it. If you are interested in working in an extremely innovative and fast paced environment, where your work directly makes an impact and difference in the products that are fielded this a fantastic opportunity.
WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Assist with test, system checkouts, fly, and provide feedback on Ghost Systems.
  • Build, program, and maintain autonomous aircraft for flight.
  • 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.
  • Assist with product installations at our test sites as needed
  • Assist Site Manager and onsite team with maintenance, including managing office supplies, cleaning, inventory management and equipment maintenance
  • Travel between test sites depending on testing requirements and team needs


REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • RC, RPIC, or Pilot-operator (PIC) experience on fixed wing commercial and/or defense Group 1 -3 aircraft.
  • Ability to get and maintain a FAA part 107 certificate, and FAA Part 61 ground school completion (as required)
  • Ability to travel on an as needed basis.
  • Familiarity with flight controllers and autopilot logic.
  • Significant knowledge and understanding of National Airspace regulations and operating restrictions
  • Must have strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to own a variety of tasks in an autonomous environment
  • Able to work extended hours as required
  • Strong customer service and organizational collaboration mentality
  • Small UAS maintenance experience.
  • Willingness to travel approximately 25% of the time.
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • LiPO/LiON battery handling experience
  • Bachelors degree in aerospace, electrical, software, or mechanical engineering.
  • Experience with developmental and operational test.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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