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Flight Controls Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Engineer

Lynnfield, MA · On-site

$71K - $108K/yr

A Day in a Life at Johnson Controls | Engineering Roles What you do The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in deploying Niagara Framework-based systems and integrating building automation ...

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Engineer

Lynnfield, MA · On-site

$71K - $108K/yr

A Day in a Life at Johnson Controls | Engineering Roles What you do The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in deploying Niagara Framework-based systems and integrating building automation ...

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Build your best future with the Johnson Controls team! As a global leader in smart, healthy, and ... system. Participates in release meeting with project field team. Performs value engineering to ...

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Engineer

Norfolk, VA

$67K - $87K/yr

Build your best future with the Johnson Controls team! As a global leader in smart, healthy, and ... system. Participates in release meeting with project field team. Performs value engineering to ...

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Flight Controls Systems Engineer information

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight controls systems engineer in the United States is $82.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77.40 and $90.87 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.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Flight Controls Systems Engineers in the aerospace industry can reach salaries of $300,000 or more, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in senior or specialized roles. High compensation often reflects expertise in control systems, avionics, and simulation tools, as well as working for major aerospace or defense companies. Salary levels vary 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, actuators, and software to ensure safe and efficient aircraft operation, often using simulation tools and adhering to aerospace industry standards. Strong knowledge of aerodynamics, control theory, and certification processes is essential in this role.

What engineer makes 500,000 a year?

A Flight Controls Systems Engineer can earn around $500,000 annually, especially at senior levels or in high-demand aerospace companies. Such roles often require advanced expertise in avionics, control systems, and certifications, with compensation reflecting experience, responsibilities, and industry standards.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior flight controls systems engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in aerospace software and hardware, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in major aerospace companies, specialized skills, and leadership positions within engineering teams.

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.
More about Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs
What states have the most Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs are:
Flight Controls Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Controls Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $171,051 per year, or $82.2 per hour.
Flight Controls & GNC Engineer, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (On-Site)

Flight Controls & GNC Engineer, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (On-Site)

Technology Service Corporation (TSC)

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

TSC is seeking a Flight Controls & GNC Engineer to support our operations based in Raeford, NC, Sierra Vista, AZ or Arlington, VA, to serve as a key contributor for Flight Controls Systems in our Airborne ISR Division. This position is crucial to the success of the Product line's overall safety and performance.
As a key contributor in the Airborne ISR Division, this position is crucial to the overall return on investment for TSC's commitment to technological research and development for the AISR domain. This position will work closely with the Systems Engineering team, front-line Operators, Technical Leads, Program Managers to maximize technology transfer to the market through continuous iterations of development, test, fielding, customer engagement, and sustainment of solutions. Travel may be required up to 50% and will vary depending upon home-basing location.
As a Flight Controls & GNC Engineer, you can anticipate some of your day-to-day responsibilities to include:
  • Serving as a key focal point for flight control automation. Required to translate information at the technical level and execute multiple parallel technological initiatives at any given time.
  • Executing project tasks within a technical team focused on Flight Controls and GNC Automation encompassing multiple fixed wing platforms.
  • Communicating and accomplishing tasks with cross functional stakeholders in the execution of experimental learning experiences in a HIL/SIL, ground and flight test.
  • Conduct various types of data analysis in support of time sensitive developmental or operational efforts, funneling documented results back into risk management and safety workflows for additional review, procedural or safety bulletins, product support and future technological development projects.
  • Support the development, planning or execution of a variety of test related activities required for internal and customer driven projects, processes, or gate reviews.

Required Qualifications
  • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Aerospace, Controls engineering or other relevant discipline, plus a minimum two years of direct experience with fixed wing UAS Flight Controls and GNC implementation.
  • US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
  • Demonstrated experience in technical project teams, assessing risk, and executing tasks to maintain the required pace to reach viable technical solutions.
  • Practical experience with development or operational improvement of fixed wing UAS technology.
  • Hands-on experience in software development for flight controls and in guidance, navigation and control for fixed wing systems.
  • Ability to understand automation challenges or gaps, and participate in solutions-based collaborations.
  • Ability to execute operations of hardware-in-the-loop simulators, conducting testing and troubleshooting of HW/SW interfaces. Familiarity with software configuration management tools, version control systems, defect tracking tools, and workflows with peer review required.
  • Ability to individually contribute and execute tasks assigned.

Preferred Qualifications
  • The ideal candidate has more than five years of directly relevant experience in the Required Qualifications and thrives working amongst a team with other highly technical engineers and business-oriented innovators.

TSC Benefits:
TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefit package; including ESOP participation, 401k Plan, Flexible Work Schedules, Tuition Reimbursement, Co-Sponsored Health Plan, Paid Leave and much more.
Applying to TSC:
Only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted. Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and a drug screening.
This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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