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Flight Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Qualdoc

Flight Sciences Engineer

Newport News, VA

$60/hr

Flight Sciences Engineer Location: Newport News, VA Job Type: Contract Pay: Starting at $60.00/hour (higher based on experience) Position Overview We are seeking a Flight Sciences Engineer to support ...

Qualdoc

Flight Sciences Engineer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$60/hr

Flight Sciences Engineer Location: Newport News, VA Job Type: Contract Pay: Starting at $60.00/hour (higher based on experience) Position Overview We are seeking a Flight Sciences Engineer to support ...

Yulista

Aircraft Mechanic III/Flight Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$27.75 - $36.50/hr

The Aircraft Mechanic III/Flight Engineer performs assigned flight duties on P3 Aircraft as well as aircraft maintenance. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Perform maintenance on aircraft, including avionics ...

Blue Origin

GN&C Navigation Engineer III

Reston, VA

$164K - $230K/yr

Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and ... S. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer ...

Lynk

Flight Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary The Flight Software Engineer at Lynk will be developing flight software applications for commanding and controlling our satellites. This includes developing our satellite command and data ...

Umbra

Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Job We are seeking a Flight Software Engineer who possesses experience in Rust programming language to take an active role in the development and delivery of embedded flight software ...

Umbra

Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Arlington, VA · On-site

About the Job We are seeking a Flight Software Engineer who possesses experience in Rust programming language to take an active role in the development and delivery of embedded flight software ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFlight Engineer JobsFlight Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Flight Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$46.1K

$117.5K

$258.3K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in Virginia is $117,496.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,200.00 and $114,000.00 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Flight Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Flight Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Flight Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Engineer jobs in VA? For Flight Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Flight Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,496 per year, or $56.5 per hour.
Flight Sciences Engineer

Flight Sciences Engineer

Qualdoc

Newport News, VA

$60/hr

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Flight Sciences Engineer

Location: Newport News, VA
Job Type: Contract
Pay: Starting at $60.00/hour (higher based on experience)

Position Overview

We are seeking a Flight Sciences Engineer to support aircraft modification, repair, and certification programs. This role is responsible for evaluating aircraft flight characteristics, aerodynamic performance, structural loading, flight dynamics, and flight testing while ensuring compliance with FAA, military, and industry standards.

The ideal candidate has experience in flight sciences, aerodynamics, aircraft performance, engineering analysis, and certification support within an aerospace environment.

Responsibilities
  • Perform engineering analyses related to aircraft flight characteristics, aerodynamic performance, structural loading, and flight dynamics.
  • Evaluate aircraft modifications and repairs to ensure continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance.
  • Develop engineering analyses, technical reports, compliance documentation, and certification support packages.
  • Perform aerodynamic evaluations, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), flight loads, flutter analysis, structural dynamics, stability and control assessments, and aircraft performance analyses.
  • Develop flight test plans, test procedures, instrumentation requirements, data acquisition strategies, and post-flight data analysis.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering, production, quality, and certification teams throughout project execution.
  • Support ground testing, flight testing, troubleshooting, and aircraft modification activities.
  • Participate in engineering design reviews and provide recommendations related to aircraft performance, aeroelastic stability, structural integrity, and regulatory compliance.
  • Maintain engineering documentation under configuration control while ensuring compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and engineering process development.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Experience supporting aircraft performance, flight sciences, aerodynamics, flight testing, aircraft modifications, or aerospace product development.
  • Working knowledge of:
    • Aerodynamics
    • Aircraft performance
    • Stability and control
    • Flight mechanics
    • Structural loading
    • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  • Experience developing engineering analyses, technical reports, compliance documentation, and certification support documentation.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with engineering, production, quality, and certification teams.
  • Comfortable working in both office and aircraft hangar environments.
  • U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Five or more years of experience supporting aircraft modification, repair, integration, flight sciences, or aerospace engineering programs.
  • Experience performing aerodynamic analyses, CFD, aircraft performance evaluations, flight loads, flutter analysis, structural dynamics, or flight test engineering.
  • Experience preparing engineering reports, substantiation packages, certification documentation, and test plans.
  • Familiarity with MIL-HDBK-516C airworthiness requirements.
  • Experience supporting FAA certification activities, ground testing, flight testing, and compliance demonstrations.
  • Experience using engineering analysis software such as ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM, MATLAB/Simulink, FlightStream, or similar tools.
  • Knowledge of aircraft systems, avionics integration, aircraft structures, and modification practices.
  • Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems, engineering release processes, and configuration management.
  • Experience collaborating with FAA representatives, engineering consultants, suppliers, customers, military authorities, or certification organizations.
What You'll Bring
  • Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
  • Ability to solve complex aerospace engineering challenges.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Commitment to engineering excellence, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement.
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.
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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020

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