ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Flight Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$115K - $215K/yr

Shield AI is seeking an experienced Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and improve ground and flight test operations for a fast-paced next gen aircraft system. You will work closely ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Gary, IN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator * Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft * Interpreting data shown on ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Hammond, IN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator * Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft * Interpreting data shown on ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Aurora, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator * Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft * Interpreting data shown on ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator * Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft * Interpreting data shown on ...

Shield AI

Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Mundelein, IL

$150K - $230K/yr

You will work closely with propulsion engineers, flight test teams, autonomy developers, instrumentation specialists, and safety organizations to define test objectives, assess risk, and deliver the ...

SES

Program Manager, In-flight Connectivity

Chicago, IL · On-site

$98K - $144K/yr

Program Manager, In-flight Connectivity ROLE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY The incumbent will lead delivery ... Lead cross-functional teams spanning aircraft engineering, software, certification, regulatory ...

TSMG

B2 Licensed Aircraft Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a B2 Licensed Aircraft Engineer, you will work alongside a dedicated team of engineers and ... Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections of electrical and avionics systems to ensure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFlight Engineer JobsFlight Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Flight Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.9K

$122.1K

$268.4K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in Chicago, IL is $122,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,900.00 and $118,500.00 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.

More about Flight Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Flight Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Flight Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Flight Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,085 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Engineer - Flight Operations (Remote)

United Airlines, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

United Airlines rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 342 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 26 rated airlines

Job description

Description
Get ready for a career at the leading edge of the airline industry! Our Flight Operations team works hard to connect people and unite the world safely, reliably and efficiently every single day. From industry leadership and pioneering technologies to next-level training - our Flight Ops team hires, trains, qualifies and supports the best pilots in the industry. The moments we share in the air and on the ground with our customers and our colleagues make United a special place to work and a great way to fly, together.
Job Overview and Responsibilities
The Flight Operations Engineer will have basic knowledge of aircraft performance
They will work under the guidance of a lead engineer to develop all aspects of aircraft performance which may include takeoff and landing performance, enroute performance, driftdown, terrain clearance, decompression, ETOPS, MEL performance effects, Weight and Balance engineering, and development of performance data in support of company flight manuals.
The flight operations engineer will support development of performance software applications, analysis for new stations, markets, and fleets, tools to increase operational efficiency, and support of all internal and external customers in the interpretation and analysis of aircraft performance data, maintaining and developing airport and obstacle data, including NOTAM information and special engine-out departure procedures.
They will work with databases and modern analytics packages to improve operational safety and efficiency
  • Aircraft Performance on Runway Performance/Flight Planning/Weight and Balance Systems.
  • Create and review Aircraft Performance data and perform testing in support of these projects.
  • Provide input to development team on the fuction and operation of these systems.
  • Maintains and support all aspects of Aircraft Performance and related data for United Airlines under the guidance of lead / Senior engineer
  • Manages Airport and Obstacle Data, including NOTAMS, for assigned airports under the guidance of the lead engineer
  • Develops and maintains tools, software application to support operations and increase efficiency

Qualifications
What's needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree or 4 years of relevant work experience
  • 2 years of experience in airline flight operations engineering or related area targeted to a specific United Airlines fleet
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Must be flexible and willing to be available on-call to support operations per United Airlines CORE 4 values
  • Knowledge and interest in aircraft performance engineering, weight and balance, and airline operations
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
  • Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
  • Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Attended Boeing and/ or Airbus Performance Engineering classes
  • Good Presentation skills
  • Experience in airplane performance engineering
  • Strong Excel skills
  • Python skills
  • SQL
  • Data Analytics

What United Airlines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

United Airlines logo

About United Airlines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Airlines is embarking on an exciting journey to become the best airline in aviation history. Our purpose, "Connecting People, Uniting the World," extends beyond transportation, emphasizing our commitment to uplift and create opportunities in the places we serve. With a global presence and diverse workforce, we value inclusivity and are dedicated to hiring tens of thousands of individuals across various roles. Our comprehensive benefits package, including perks like space available travel, parental leave, and 401k, aims to support your well-being and growth.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1926

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All United Airlines Jobs

Apply