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Flight Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Space Tango LLC

Software Engineer III

Lexington, KY · On-site

$49.75 - $67/hr

The position serves as the Software Engineering functional team representative for specific projects throughout the lifecycle process from concept ideation through return from flight and ensuring ...

Space Tango LLC

Software Engineer III

Lexington, KY · On-site

$49.75 - $67/hr

The position serves as the Software Engineering functional team representative for specific projects throughout the lifecycle process from concept ideation through return from flight and ensuring ...

Space Tango LLC

Software Engineer III

Lexington, KY · On-site

$49.75 - $67/hr

The position serves as the Software Engineering functional team representative for specific projects throughout the lifecycle process from concept ideation through return from flight and ensuring ...

eFusionX, Inc.

Be Seen First

Industrial Engineer

Harrodsburg, KY · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Overview We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Industrial Engineer/CAD Designer to join our ... We're advancing the future of flight with intelligent propulsion, modular platforms, and multi ...

Atlas Air

Aircraft Systems Engineer

Erlanger, KY · On-site

Provide technical support to Technical Operations, Ground Operations, Flight Operations, and other Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings personnel. * Coordinate with other Engineering staff to provide 24/7 ...

Lockheed Martin

Aircraft Mechanic I

Lexington, KY

$27.50 - $36/hr

Interpreting and applying information from maintenance manuals, service bulletins, engineering drawings, and technical data to guide maintenance activities. * Conducting preflight, thru-flight, and ...

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All JobsFlight Engineer JobsFlight Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Flight Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$40.4K

$102.9K

$226.3K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in Kentucky is $102,931.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $99,900.00 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 much money do flight engineers make?

Flight engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, airline, and location. They often work long hours and require certifications such as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant license or equivalent. Salaries can increase with seniority and specialized skills in aircraft systems and maintenance.

Is flight engineer still a job?

Yes, the flight engineer role still exists, primarily in certain types of aircraft such as military planes and some cargo or specialized aircraft. However, the position has become less common in commercial aviation due to automation and modern aircraft systems, with many responsibilities now handled by pilots and onboard technology. Certification and technical skills remain important for those pursuing this career.

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 flight, 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 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 engineering jobs pay $500,000?

High-level aerospace and aviation engineering roles, such as senior flight engineers or aerospace project managers, can reach or exceed $500,000 annually with experience, bonuses, and specialized skills. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and work in high-stakes environments like commercial or military aviation. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and level of responsibility.
More about Flight Engineer jobs
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What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Flight Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Engineer jobs in KY? For Flight Engineer jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Flight Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,931 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Fluidics & Thermal Engineer II/III

Fluidics & Thermal Engineer II/III

Space Tango LLC

Lexington, KY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Space Tango is an innovative space technology small business based in Lexington, Ky. Space Tango's mission is to manufacture health and technology products in space that create value and transformational solutions. Space Tango provides space-based automated facilities and payloads to support research and development and small-scale manufacturing needs of our partners and customers in the Low Earth Orbit environment and beyond. As a leader in automated systems, Space Tango pursues pathways to on-orbit production. Our vision is to inspire, innovate, and create a better future for humanity by utilizing the environment of space.
The Fluidics & Thermal Engineer is responsible for the design, analysis, fabrication, assembly, integration, and testing of fluid, thermal, and environmental control systems used within Space Tango's automated spaceflight payloads and facilities. Working closely with cross-functional teams, this role transforms early concepts into manufacturable, testable, and flight-ready systems through thoughtful engineering, analysis, prototype development, and hands-on integration. This role develops fluidics and thermal systems that enable biological research and manufacturing in the unique environment of microgravity.
Travel may be required to support launches, customer activities, partner integrations, and mission operations.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design fluid, thermal, and environmental control systems for spaceflight payloads, research systems, and ground support equipment.
  • Develop and maintain mechanical designs in SolidWorks, including part models, assemblies, drawings, and engineering documentation.
  • Design tubing layouts, manifolds, heat exchangers, reservoirs, pumps, valves, fittings, thermal interfaces, insulation, and supporting hardware.
  • Perform engineering analyses related to heat transfer, fluid flow, pressure drop, structural integrity, and thermal performance.
  • Support CFD, thermal, and FEA activities as required to evaluate and optimize system performance.
  • Select components, materials, seals, fittings, tubing, and manufacturing processes appropriate for high-reliability spaceflight applications.
  • Create and review designs with attention to manufacturability, assembly, reliability, cleanliness, material compatibility, and serviceability.
  • Support hands-on assembly, integration, troubleshooting, and testing of fluid and thermal systems.
  • Participate in structural, thermal, environmental, leak, pressure, vibration, and thermal vacuum testing.
  • Work with vendors and internal teams to quote, fabricate, modify, inspect, and receive mechanical components.
  • Support design reviews, engineering analyses, assembly procedures, test plans, and verification activities.
  • Document design decisions through drawings, calculations, test reports, and concise technical documentation.
  • Collaborate with electrical, software, science, manufacturing, and test teams to develop integrated hardware solutions.
  • Learn and apply spaceflight engineering practices, including configuration control, cleanliness, contamination control, safety, and reliability.

Requirements
Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
  • Experience designing fluid, thermal, or mechanical systems.
  • Experience with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
  • Understanding of heat transfer, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanical design fundamentals.
  • Familiarity with engineering analyses such as thermal analysis, CFD, FEA, or related simulation tools.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience assembling, integrating, or troubleshooting engineering hardware.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively on multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Preferred:
  • Experience designing fluid systems, thermal control systems, or environmental control systems.
  • Experience with pumps, valves, tubing, fittings, pressure vessels, heat exchangers, or thermal management hardware.
  • Experience supporting structural, thermal vacuum, vibration, pressure, leak, or environmental testing.
  • Experience with CFD, thermal analysis, or finite element analysis tools.
  • Experience with aerospace, laboratory automation, life sciences, or precision mechanical systems.
  • Experience supporting prototype development through verification and flight readiness.
  • Familiarity with NASA or aerospace design standards and configuration management practices.

Interpersonal Skills
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Hands-on approach to engineering and problem solving.
  • Ability to identify issues early and develop practical solutions.
  • Comfortable working in a collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environment.
  • Commitment to continuous learning and engineering excellence.

Space Tango is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Space Tango is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
This position may require access to technology and information subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Employment is contingent upon the ability to obtain any necessary government authorizations to access and handle controlled technology and data. Candidates must be able to comply with all applicable export control regulations.

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