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Flight Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$127K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Flight Software Engineer , you will lead the development of Scout's flight software systems for imaging payloads which perform image capture, processing, and data exploitation on orbit ...

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$127K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Flight Software Engineer , you will lead the development of Scout's flight software systems for imaging payloads which perform image capture, processing, and data exploitation on orbit ...

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Flight Software Engineer , you will lead the development of Scout's flight software systems for imaging payloads which perform image capture, processing, and data exploitation on orbit ...

Showing results 21-40

Flight Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$46.1K

$117.5K

$258.3K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a flight engineer?

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Flight Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of 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:
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,496 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Flight Safety Test Engineer, Senior

Peraton

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 223 rated it services


Job description

Job Summary:
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe. As a Senior Flight Safety Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for optimizing, testing, and integrating critical system tools for the Flight Safety mission, ensuring mission protection against on-orbit collision risks and terrestrial threats.
Responsibilities:
• Lead integration efforts of new data sources in legacy and developing system tools
• Test software in test environments to mitigate bug risks to operations upon deployment
• Improve tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for flight safety and mission protection operations; inform training material changes when necessary
• Execute command shell (Bash) and Python scripts through GUI & command prompts, troubleshooting as needed within Linux OS in classified network environments
• Perform routine RSO asset ephemeris against terrestrial locations and secondary RSOs (i.e., ASW "SuperCombo" runs) and ad hoc in response to non-corporative maneuvers
• Screen pre & post-launch TLEs, state trajectories and on-orbit hypothetical-burn ephemeris against latest resident space object (RSO) catalog to mitigate collision risks
• Operate orbit propagating software expertly, navigate GUIs, understand required field input volumes and reporting criteria to deliver products to owner/operator
• Lead flight safety meetings and participate in training and exercise efforts as needed
• Document software and training material and provide OJT instruction to team members
Qualifications:
Required:
• 8+ years of experience working as a Systems Engineer, Software Integrator, Software Developer, Software Testing or performing Conjunction Assessment (CA) screenings with 4-year degree (BS) in related field; or 12+ years' relevant experience in lieu of degree; or 6+ years' experience with MS/MA graduate degree in related STEM field.
• Active TS/SCI with adjudicated Poly
Preferred:
• 2+ years' experience with Flight Safety tools (i.e., Astrodynamics Support Workstation (ASW) SuperCombo tool or STK) or STK Level 2 certification in lieu of working experience
• 6+ years of combined experience working in flight safety (conjunction assessment) and/or space operations requiring flight safety system tools (i.e., STK, ASW)
• Advanced understanding of orbital mechanics, flight safety tools and mission scope
• Understanding of foreign/domestic space & ground threat capabilities
• Ability to read, write and understand logic of scripts written in Bash or Python languages
• Prior working experience with National Reconnaissance Office missions and systems
• Experience working and collaborating with military and civilian leaders of all ranks
Company:
Peraton Fearlessly solving the toughest national security challenges. Founded in 1992, the company is headquartered in Woodbridge, USA, with a team of 10001+ employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017