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Flight Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air mobility. Our technology enables ...

Electra

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air mobility. Our technology enables ...

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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 14, 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:
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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.
Engineering Manager- Flight Control System

Engineering Manager- Flight Control System

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

$153K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Engineering Manager – Flight Control System

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

As the Engineering Manager – Flight Control System, you will serve as both the Integrated Product Team (IPT) lead and people manager responsible for development of the Flight Control System (FCS) for the EL9 Ultra Short aircraft.

You will inherit an established system architecture and initial requirements baseline and lead your team in finalizing preliminary design, driving detailed design execution, and maturing the system to a certifiable configuration.

This role requires deep expertise in systems engineering as well as strong leadership capabilities to build and scale a high-performing team. You will work cross-functionally across systems, avionics, actuation, propulsion, and flight test teams, and play a central role in bringing a novel aircraft configuration through certification.

What You'll Do

  • Own the end-to-end Flight Control System development for the EL9 aircraft, from preliminary design through certification.
  • Lead development and validation of system integration, ensuring alignment across actuation, avionics, propulsion, and structures.
  • Define and execute the certification approach, including functional certification plans, safety assessments (FHA, FMEA, FTA), and compliance artifacts.
  • Build and lead a high-performing flight controls team, providing technical direction while delivering on program cost, schedule, and milestones.
  • Oversee system integration, verification, and flight test, ensuring the FCS meets performance, safety, and reliability targets at the aircraft level.

What You'll Bring:

  • Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive complex programs to execution.
  • Familiarity with industry-standard aerospace development and certification practices (e.g., ARP4754A) applied to complex aircraft systems.
  • Familiarity with integrated aircraft systems, including actuation, avionics, sensors, and propulsion interfaces.
  • Prior involvement in aircraft certification programs, including direct engagement with FAA or equivalent authorities.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Ability to balance deep technical involvement with strategic leadership responsibilities.

Bonus Points

  • Experience leading flight controls development for novel or highly integrated aircraft configurations (e.g., STOL, eVTOL, hybrid-electric aircraft).
  • Experience integrating flight controls with electromechanical actuation systems and power architectures.
  • Experience with redundant and fault-tolerant control system architectures.
  • Background in supplier management for flight-critical systems.
  • Experience building, scaling, and managing high-performing engineering teams, including hiring, mentoring, and driving technical excellence and accountability.

Compensation

$153,000 – $185,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters