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Flight Data Analyst Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

This facility provides operational flight dynamics support to 35+ satellites in various orbital ... Experience with large scale data analytics and application/development of new algorithms for ...

... analysis, anomaly detection, flight dynamics, and mission planning domains โ€ข Build and maintain ... flight data โ€ข Explore compressed models for resource-constrained deployment scenarios ...

Senior / Principal Flight Physics Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Analyze and synthesize aerodynamic data from flight testing, wind tunnel testing, CFD simulations, and analytical models to support aircraft design and performance evaluations * Lead or support the ...

Senior / Principal Flight Physics Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$130 - $180/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Analyze and synthesize aerodynamic data from flight testing, wind tunnel testing, CFD simulations, and analytical models to support aircraft design and performance evaluations * Lead or support the ...

Showing results 41-60

Flight Data Analyst information

See Washington salary details

$38.5K

$93.6K

$154K

How much do flight data analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight data analyst in Washington is $93,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,800.00 and $109,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight data analyst?

To thrive as a Flight Data Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a background in aviation or data science, and typically a relevant degree such as aerospace engineering or statistics. Familiarity with flight data monitoring systems (such as FDM/FOQA), data visualization tools, and certifications like ICAO FOQA or related safety analysis are commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help analysts interpret complex datasets and collaborate with flight crews and safety teams. These skills ensure accurate monitoring, timely reporting, and continuous improvement of flight safety and operational efficiency.

What is a flight data analyst?

A Flight Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, processing, and interpreting flight data to enhance aviation safety, efficiency, and performance. They analyze flight recorder data, identify trends, and provide insights to improve aircraft operations. This role often involves working with airlines, aviation authorities, or aircraft manufacturers to support accident investigations and optimize flight procedures. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with data analysis tools are essential for success in this position.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a flight data analyst?

As a Flight Data Analyst, your day-to-day tasks typically involve collecting, processing, and analyzing flight data records from various aircraft systems to identify trends and anomalies. You may prepare safety reports, present findings to flight operations teams, and recommend improvements based on data insights. Collaboration with pilots, engineers, and safety officers is common to ensure data accuracy and implement corrective actions when necessary. These activities play a crucial role in enhancing operational safety, regulatory compliance, and overall flight performance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Data Analyst jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Flight Data Analyst jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Data Analyst jobs in Washington?

For Flight Data Analyst jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Data Analyst jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Data Analyst jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Flight Data Analyst job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,598 per year, or $45 per hour.

Senior Engineer, Software - Autonomous Aircraft Integration (R5200)

Shield AI

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

This position is ideal for an individual who thrives on solving complex integration challenges that span hardware, software, and systems engineering. A successful candidate will be skilled at deploying autonomy solutions onto unmanned platforms, preparing systems for flight, and troubleshooting mission-critical issues in both lab and field environments. The role is highly dynamic, requiring hands-on experience, strong systems thinking, and the ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, real-world test conditions. 
 
Shield AI is committed to developing cutting-edge autonomy for unmanned aircraft operating across all Department of Defense (DoD) domains, including air, sea, and land. Our Flight Integration Engineers are essential to bridging the gap between R&D and deployment, ensuring that autonomous systems function reliably and effectively when and where they are needed most.
What you'll do:
  • System Integration & Deployment — Integrate autonomy software onto unmanned aircraft systems, ensuring seamless operation across onboard compute, sensors, and control interfaces.
  • Pre-flight Preparation — Own the build, configuration, and validation process for flight-ready systems; coordinate hardware/software compatibility and mission readiness.
  • On-site Flight Test Support — Travel to test sites and support live flight operations, including safety checks, system bring-up, and troubleshooting under time-critical constraints.
  • Hardware/Software Debugging — Diagnose and resolve integration issues across complex autonomy software stacks and embedded systems in lab and field environments.
  • Flight Data Capture & Analysis — Manage data collection during missions and post-test analysis, working with autonomy engineers to refine behaviors and identify improvements.
  • Collaboration Across Teams — Work closely with autonomy, GNC, systems, and test teams to ensure mission-critical functionality is delivered on time and validated thoroughly.
  • Continuous Improvement — Build tools and processes to improve integration timelines, flight test reliability, and team efficiency across deployment cycles.
  • Support Certification and Compliance — Assist with documentation and system-level validation required for certification, airworthiness, and compliance in defense-relevant environments.
  • Travel Requirement – Members of this team typically travel around 30-40% of the year (to different office locations, customer sites, and flight integration events).
Required Qualifications:
  • BS/MS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and/or similar degree, or equivalent practical experience 
  • Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 4 years and a Master’s degree; or 2 years with a PhD; or equivalent work experience.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and Python, and familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS).
  • Proficiency in Linux-based development and experience working with embedded systems, shell scripting, and system diagnostics.
  • Knowledge of sensor integration, sensor fusion, and middleware frameworks (e.g., ROS, DDS).
  • Hands-on experience supporting flight demos or live exercises.
  • Experience with simulation tools and environments (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS) for testing and validation.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
  • Ability to obtain a SECRET clearance. 
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Direct experience supporting unmanned aerial systems or similar flight test campaigns.
  • Familiarity with autonomy stacks, flight control systems, or GNC pipelines.
  • Competence in sensor integration, electronics debugging, or avionics bring-up.
  • Proficiency in developing automation tools for system testing, logging, and data parsing.
  • Comfortable interfacing with DoD stakeholders during field events or technical reviews.
  • Experience with UCI and OMS Standards.
#LI-ED1
#LC

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.