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Flight Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic Flight Software Engineer who is fueled by high accountability, execution horsepower, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and ...

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Flight Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$44.4K

$113.2K

$248.8K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in Houston, TX is $113,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,700.00 and $109,800.00 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.
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Flight Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,176 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Flight Operations Performance Engineer

Avelo Airlines, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
On April 28, 2021, Avelo took flight as America's first new airline in nearly 15 years - ushering in a new era of affordable, convenient, and reliable air travel. Founded and led by airline industry veteran, Andrew Levy, along with a team of world-class airline executives, we endeavored to build a different and better kind of airline with one mission in mind: "To inspire travel" and we've done so with industry-leading reliability and a caring Soul of Service. If you are looking for the opportunity to join a new and exciting airline that offers the chance to make your mark on aviation history, keep reading!
Purpose: The Flight Operations Performance Engineer supports Avelo Airlines' Operations Control Center (OCC) by providing analytical and engineering-level insight into flight operations performance under 14 CFR Part 121. The role focuses on fuel efficiency, airport operational performance, aircraft performance monitoring, and serving as the OCC subject matter expert for MEL/CDL performance interfaces. This position does not exercise operational control of flights.
Key Focus Areas:
  • Fuel efficiency and operational fuel performance
  • Airport performance analysis
  • Aircraft performance monitoring
  • MEL/CDL operational and performance interfaces
  • Performance metrics and trend analysis
  • Support for Embraer E195-E2 aircraft onboarding

Responsibilities:
  • Analyze fuel burn performance, airport constraints, aircraft performance trends, and MEL/CDL impacts.
  • Develop recurring performance reports and dashboards.
  • Serve as the OCC subject matter expert for MEL/CDL performance considerations.
  • Support aircraft type onboarding activities including performance validation, airport suitability, and operational readiness for the Embraer E195-E2.
  • Partner with Dispatch, Flight Operations, Network Planning, and Technical Operations while maintaining regulatory and safety boundaries.
  • Support Network Planning with payload/range analysis for market planning.
  • Oversee fleet weight and balance engineering in relation to the OCC function.
  • Perform audits and maintain records for aircraft performance and fleet weight and balance in support of Safety Management System requirements.
  • Act as Avelo liaison to Boeing and Embraer Flight Operations Engineering.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, aviation, analytics, or related field, or equivalent experience
  • Working knowledge of Part 121 Federal Aviation Regulations as related to operations
  • Detailed knowledge of Part 25 Federal Aviation Regulations as related to aircraft performance
  • Strong statistical analysis and communication skills
  • Strong computer skills

X-Factors:
  • FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate and/or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate
  • Working knowledge of Boeing and Embraer aircraft
  • Familiarity with NavBlue operations control software
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Fabric and PowerBI
  • Computer programming skills focused on data analysis
  • Working knowledge of Flight Management Systems and ACARS communication

May perform other responsibilities as assigned. Responsibilities and duties may change when circumstances dictate.
Avelo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.