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Flight Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Approach Venture

Flight Software Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$135K - $225K/yr

Flight Software Engineer - Build Next-Generation Spacecraft Systems for High-Energy Missions! El Segundo, CA | On-site Opportunity Summary Join a venture-backed aerospace startup developing advanced ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Sciences Engineer

Mojave, CA · Hybrid

As a Flight Science Engineer, you will contribute to a small hypersonic advanced design team, designing current and future Stratolaunch hypersonic vehicles. Your tasking may include conceptual design ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Sciences Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Science Engineer, you will contribute to a small hypersonic advanced design team, designing current and future Stratolaunch hypersonic vehicles. Your tasking may include conceptual design ...

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Flight Engineer information

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$257.1K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in California is $116,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,800.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Flight Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical and aeronautical engineering principles, typically supported by an associate's or bachelor's degree and relevant licensure or certification. Familiarity with aircraft systems, diagnostic tools, and flight management computers is essential for managing in-flight operations and troubleshooting issues. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help Flight Engineers work effectively with pilots and maintenance crews. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient aircraft operation and prompt resolution of technical challenges during flights.

How does a Flight Engineer collaborate with pilots and maintenance crews during a typical flight operation?

A Flight Engineer works closely with pilots in the cockpit to monitor and manage all aircraft systems, such as engines, fuel, and hydraulics, ensuring optimal performance and safety throughout the flight. They regularly communicate with maintenance crews before and after flights to discuss technical issues, prepare aircraft for departures, and log any discrepancies for follow-up repairs. This collaborative environment requires strong teamwork, technical expertise, and clear communication to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.

What do flight engineers do?

Flight engineers are responsible for monitoring and operating aircraft systems during flights, including engines, hydraulics, and electrical systems. They assist pilots with technical issues, perform pre-flight checks, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working in the cockpit or engineering station. Certification and technical knowledge are essential for this role.

What are flight engineers?

Flight engineers are specialized crew members responsible for monitoring and operating complex aircraft systems during flights. They assist pilots by managing engines, fuel, electrical, and environmental controls, ensuring that the aircraft operates safely and efficiently. While modern aircraft often automate many of these tasks, flight engineers remain essential on older, multi-crew airplanes and in certain specialized aviation roles. They play a key role in troubleshooting issues and optimizing aircraft performance during flight.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace or flight engineers working for major airlines, defense contractors, or in the aerospace industry can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and additional compensation such as bonuses or profit sharing. These roles often require advanced certifications, a strong technical background, and sometimes leadership responsibilities.

What is the difference between Flight Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

AspectFlight EngineerAircraft Maintenance Engineer
CredentialsFAA/AESA certifications, engineering degree often preferredAircraft Maintenance Engineer license, certifications in aircraft systems
Work EnvironmentOnboard aircraft during flights, in flight operationsMaintenance hangars, repair facilities, and on aircraft ground checks
Industry UsageCommercial and cargo airlines, military aviationAircraft maintenance companies, airline ground operations
Primary RoleMonitor aircraft systems during flight, assist pilotsInspect, repair, and maintain aircraft systems on the ground

While both roles involve aircraft systems, Flight Engineers focus on monitoring and supporting aircraft operations during flights, whereas Aircraft Maintenance Engineers handle ground-based inspections and repairs. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in aviation.

What Is a Flight Engineer?

As a flight engineer, it is your job to monitor an airplane’s instrument systems during flight. Your main duties are to regulate cabin pressure, communicate with dispatchers, oversee fuel use, and assist the pilot. The career requires aviation experience as well as a flight engineer (FE) license from the Federal Aviation Administration. Most commercial airlines require additional qualifications such as a bachelor’s degree in aviation. You must receive regular training throughout your career to keep your license.

What engineers make $500,000?

In the field of engineering, certain specialized roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and software engineers in high-paying industries can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

Is there a demand for flight engineers?

Flight engineers are in demand for commercial and military aircraft, especially as experienced personnel retire and new aircraft require specialized technical skills. The role often requires certifications and technical training, and employment prospects depend on the aviation industry's growth and airline needs.
More about Flight Engineer jobs
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What cities in California are hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Flight Engineer job openings:
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Flight Engineer jobs near you
UAS Flight Engineer - Skunk Works - Level 3

UAS Flight Engineer - Skunk Works - Level 3

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Palmdale, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 382 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

We are Lockheed Martin
You will be the Ground Station Flight Engineer. The Flight Engineer team is responsible for ground station maintenance and operation of flight simulators. As a crew member, you will actively participate in test events and assist other crew members with accomplishing test requirements. You will assist with troubleshooting, fault isolation, diagnostics, and fault resolution.
What You Will Be Doing
As the Ground Station Flight Engineer, you will be a Specialized System Engineer that acts as a system expert. You will perform computer administration functions to include software installations and upgrades, user account and hardware maintenance. As a ground station Flight Engineer, you will be an integral crew member responsible for pre & post flight operations.
Your responsibilities will include:
Perform real-time troubleshooting of complex hardware/software anomalies with analysis and evaluation of asset under test.
Execute readiness tests to verify system under test functionality.
Perform pre and post system checkouts and ensures asset readiness for test.
Ensures all paperwork and configuration management tracking is correct prior to test.
Formulate and issue test documentation to perform maintenance tasks and maintains configuration control.
** Must be a US Citizen. This position is located at a facility that requires special access. **
aeroflightops aerosystems

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912

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