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Flight Controls Systems Engineer Jobs in Arizona

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Systems Engineer - Flight Management Systems (FMS) Duration: Initial 6-month contract with option to extend up to 12 months based on program needs and performance. Target Start Date: July 15-31 This ...

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Systems Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$55 - $62/hr

We are seeking an experienced Lead Systems Engineer to support advanced avionics systems, with a focus on Flight Management or Flight Guidance functions. This role is hands on and technical ...

Overview A high-speed beverage manufacturing company is seeking an OT / Controls Systems Engineer to support plant-floor automation systems and manufacturing IT infrastructure at its Glendale ...

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Systems Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$60 - $70/hr

We are seeking experienced Systems Engineers to support Flight Management System (FMS) development, integration, verification, and certification activities for aerospace programs. This role will ...

Controls Engineer 1

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Develops new or modifies existing systems, interfaces or embedded controls * Participates in setup ... Support engineering and maintenance for advanced troubleshooting * Operate, upgrade and maintain ...

Controls Engineer 1

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Develops new or modifies existing systems, interfaces or embedded controls * Participates in setup ... Support engineering and maintenance for advanced troubleshooting * Operate, upgrade and maintain ...

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Kronos has a long history of avionics engineering working with some of the largest aircraft ... Flight Management Systems experience, NGFMS preferred * Experience with integrated lab environments ...

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Flight Controls Systems Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$19

$76

$98

How much do flight controls systems engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight controls systems engineer in Arizona is $76.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72.12 and $84.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Flight Controls Systems Engineer vs Avionics Engineer?

AspectFlight Controls Systems EngineerAvionics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like FAA or EASA may be preferredBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Aerospace Engineering; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test flight control systems in aerospace companies or research labsDesign and integrate avionic systems within aircraft or spacecraft
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace manufacturing, defense, and researchUsed across commercial, military, and general aviation sectors

The Flight Controls Systems Engineer focuses on designing and testing aircraft control systems, while the Avionics Engineer works on broader electronic systems within aircraft. Both roles require similar credentials and often collaborate in aerospace projects, but their specific responsibilities differ based on system specialization.

Do Flight Engineers get paid well?

Flight Engineers typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their specialized technical skills and experience. Their pay can vary based on factors such as airline, years of service, and certifications, with many earning above average wages in the aviation industry.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior flight controls systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in aerospace systems can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, specialized skills in avionics, and working for major aerospace or defense companies. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual qualifications.

What does a flight systems engineer do?

A flight controls systems engineer designs, develops, and tests the control systems that manage an aircraft's flight stability and maneuverability. They work with avionics, sensors, and software, often using simulation tools and adhering to safety standards. Their role ensures the aircraft's control systems operate reliably under various conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Controls Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Flight Controls Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, control systems theory, and experience with system modeling and simulation—typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, DO-178C certification standards, and flight control software development environments is expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of aircraft flight control systems in a highly regulated industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Controls Systems Engineers during the integration and testing phases?

Flight Controls Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring seamless integration of complex hardware and software components, managing tight deadlines, and troubleshooting unexpected system behaviors during testing. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, including avionics, software, and testing engineers, is crucial to resolve issues efficiently. Additionally, engineers must adhere to rigorous safety and certification standards, which requires meticulous documentation and thorough validation of all system functionalities.

What does a Flight Controls Systems Engineer do?

A Flight Controls Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining the systems that control an aircraft's flight, such as autopilot, stability augmentation, and fly-by-wire systems. They work closely with other engineers to ensure these systems are safe, reliable, and comply with aviation regulations. Their work involves simulation, modeling, hardware integration, and troubleshooting to optimize aircraft performance and ensure passenger safety.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior flight controls systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in aerospace systems can reach salaries around $500,000, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or within leading aerospace companies. Such roles often require specialized skills in control system design, simulation tools, and leadership responsibilities.
What job categories do people searching Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
Infographic showing various Flight Controls Systems Engineer job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $159,400 per year, or $76.6 per hour.
Senior Aircraft Systems Engineer

Senior Aircraft Systems Engineer

Garmin International, Inc.

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time Senior Aircraft Systems Engineer in our new Mesa, AZ location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in development or certification of avionics installations.
Essential Functions
  • Coordinate with the Garmin ODA, internal Garmin groups, and outside customers to ensure well planned, efficient and timely implementation, development, testing, and FAA certification of Garmin avionics systems
  • Contribute to Garmin aircraft certification projects by serving in the capacity of avionics/electrical systems engineer
  • Serve as technical lead for projects of medium complexity or for complex designs that are significant redesigns of existing STC projects
  • Understand aircraft-level design and/or certification constraints associated with integrated avionics installations
  • Author certification documentation including avionics ground/bench test procedures, test reports, analyses, maintenance and function test procedures, and other compliance data for projects of medium complexity
  • Demonstrate a solid understanding of STC certification process and associated FAA Part 23/25/27/29 airworthiness regulations
  • Provide input for STC certification plans for projects, including determining affected Federal Aviation Regulations and certification basis based on similar projects
  • Coordinate with internal Garmin groups to communicate, execute and meet project goals and work effectively with design/development teams to complete complex projects
  • Provide reliable solutions to a wide range of difficult problems using sound problem solving techniques
  • Serve as a mentor to less experienced aircraft systems engineers (Aircraft Systems Engineer 1 & 2)
  • Provide engineering support for the development of system safety documents
  • Available to travel periodically to Garmin Aircraft Certification facilities

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Computer Engineering AND a minimum of 5 years relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
  • Previous experience working in avionics design, installation and FAA certification
  • Must be detail-oriented and work proactively and effectively with some supervision support
  • Ability to prioritize and multi-task in a flexible, fast paced and challenging environment
  • Demonstrated knowledge of FAA regulations applicable to avionics and flight controls certification efforts
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of the FAA STC process
  • Demonstrated understanding of commercial avionics interface standards and their installation
  • Demonstrated clear understanding of the FAA system safety process
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Demonstrated advanced knowledge in one or more of the following technical areas: Aircraft Electrical Systems, Integrated Avionics Systems, Flight Control Systems, System Safety, and/or Aircraft Certification procedures

Desired Qualifications
  • A background with aircraft systems, aircraft maintenance or modification
  • Pilot's license or Pilot-in-training
  • FAA DER, Candidate DER, or previous ODA Unit Member authorization
  • Prior experience in project, program, and people management

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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