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Flight Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Flight Engineer information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$49.1K

$125K

$274.8K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in Modesto, CA is $125,031.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,200.00 and $121,300.00 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 Modesto, CA are hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Flight Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in Modesto, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,031 per year, or $60.1 per hour.
SUPERVISORY AIRCRAFT FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR

SUPERVISORY AIRCRAFT FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR

Army National Guard Units

Stockton, CA • On-site, Remote

$133K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

New


Army National Guard rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
This SUPERVISORY AIRCRAFT FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR position, is located in the Operations and Training Section of an Army National Guard (ARNG) Aviation Support Facility C AASF)and is part of the CA AASF Stockton.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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THIS IS A T32 EXCEPTED SERVICE, PERMANENT POSITION
The primary purpose of the SUPERVISORY AIRCRAFT FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR, GS-2181-13, is to manage the Operations and Training Section of the AASF and to perform flight instructor duties. The incumbent supervises 3-12 aircraft light instructors, flight engineers and flight operations specialists.
May make additional selections within 90 days of eligible(s) issuance.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
CALIFORNIA NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED: This is an excepted service position that requires membership in the California National Guard. Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform. Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment. If you are interested in joining the California National Guard, please contact a California National Guard recruiter prior to applying for this position. https://ca.nationalguard.com/california
Compatible Military Assignment and Grade are required. Military technicians must be assigned to a military position in the same unit which they are employed or, in a unit that is supported by the employing activity. Military technicians must hold the military grade specified for the position.
Priority Areas(s) of Consideration:
Priority consideration is first given to the areas below.
AREA I= Current California National Guard employees who are serving on a Permanent/Indefinite/Temporary appointment.
Military Grades: O-2 through O-4
Recruitment/Relocation
Recruitment/Relocation Incentive IS NOT authorized.
PCS
Relocation Costs IS NOT authorized based on determination that Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is not in the Government best interest.
  • Must maintain appropriate level of security clearance.
  • May be required to successfully complete a one or two year trial period.
  • Must wear appropriate military uniform including required grooming standards.
  • Must maintain a compatible military unit, grade and job assignment as required by current directives.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.

Security Clearance: at a minimum a National Agency Check is required.
Must provide flight records and/or Aviation Certification. Failure to provide will result in automatic disqualification.
Qualifications
General Experience: Must have a Federal Aviation Administration certification awarded from an accredited civilian aviation program or have a aviation certification from an accredited military aviation school.
SUPERVISORY AIRCRAFT FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR, GS-2181-13: Must have at least one year on-the-job experience in the grade (or a comparable military rank) immediately below the next higher level and have at least two years experience in instructing others in a specific air-frame/military aircraft; Experience with civilian aviation programs, military service aviation programs (active duty or reserve components), Army National Guard Aviation Support facility or Air National Guard Wing/ Operations Group; Experience operating a specific main-frame military aircraft, mission planning, and mission preparation; Experience reviewing and analyzing mission taskings, intelligence, and weather information; Experience supervising and/or filing of flight plans and conducting crew briefings; Experience performing or supervising work procedures involved in navigation, search and rescue operations, surveillance, and/or reconnaissance; Experience conducting training of crew members in simple to complex mission specific tasks; Experience with aircraft preflight inspections, aircraft loading, and equipment assessments; Experience developing plans and policies, monitoring operations, and advising commanders; Experience with flight theory, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, mission tactics, and operating procedures; Experience with unit flying, explosive, and ground safety programs in accordance with Department of Defense, Department of the Army, National Guard Bureau, and/or Occupational Safety and Health Administration policies, regulations, and directives.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the following competencies:
  • Ability to lead or supervise
  • Operations
  • Teaches Others
  • Workforce Development

Education
Must have Federal Aviation Administration certifications awarded from accredited civilian aviation programs OR must have aviation certifications from accredited military aviation schools. Must provide flight records and/or Aviation Certification. Failure to provide will result in automatic disqualification.
When there is a positive education or certification requirement, or you are using education to qualify as a substitution for experience, copies of transcripts (unofficial) and/or certificates are required at the time of application to verify that you meet the educational/certification requirement or substitution. Failure to provide transcripts and/or certificates at the time of application will result in automatic disqualification.
Only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education may be credited. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following website: www.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/index.html.
Foreign Education: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.
Additional information
As a condition of employment, new appointees are required to serve a trial period. Individuals who are initially appointed to a permanent or indefinite position in the CMD must complete a one (1) or two (2) year trial period subject to appointment type (DSMT or T5) and veteran's preference. Trial periods for federal excepted service employees are established under 5 CFR Chapter I, Subchapter A-Part 11.
MILITARY MEMBERS WITH BONUSES: Upon acceptance of a military technician position military members who are currently receiving a military Reenlistment/Extension Bonus (REB) or GI Bill-SR Kicker may lose incentive eligibility and may be subject to termination or suspension of incentive (includes indefinite and temporary technicians on assignment for more than 180 days in any continuous 12-month period).
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).
If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, please email ng.ca.caarng.list.j1-hro-recruitfedjobs-usas@army.mil or Fax to 916-854-3439.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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About Army National Guard

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US