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Flight Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

AST SpaceMobile

Mechanisms Flight Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

The Mechanisms Flight Engineer is responsible for the verification, operational readiness, and flight execution support of spacecraft deployment and actuation systems. This role focuses on mechanisms ...

AST SpaceMobile

Mechanisms Flight Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

The Mechanisms Flight Engineer is responsible for the verification, operational readiness, and flight execution support of spacecraft deployment and actuation systems. This role focuses on mechanisms ...

Blue Origin

GN&C Navigation Engineer III

Reston, VA · On-site

$164K - $230K/yr

Proficiencyin flight dynamics, navigation principles and applications, algorithm development, and ... S. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer ...

Electra Aero, Inc.

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA

$102K - $124K/yr

Flight Test Engineer 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 ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer 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 ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer 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 ...

Lynk

Flight Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary The Flight Software Engineer at Lynk will be developing flight software applications for commanding and controlling our satellites. This includes developing our satellite command and data ...

Electra

Principal Flight Controls Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

Electra

Principal Flight Controls Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

Umbra

Flight Software Engineer (Rust)

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Job We are seeking a Flight Software Engineer who possesses experience in Rust programming language to take an active role in the development and delivery of embedded flight software ...

Quantum Space

Flight Software Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

We are seeking a Flight Software Engineer to design, develop, integrate, and test embedded software that powers our spacecraft and payload systems. You will work across subsystem teams to implement ...

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All JobsFlight Engineer JobsFlight Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Flight Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$48.4K

$123.3K

$271K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in Reston, VA is $123,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,800.00 and $119,600.00 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 popular job titles related to Flight Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Flight Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Flight Engineer job openings:
Flight Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,295 per year, or $59.3 per hour.
Mechanisms Flight Engineer

Mechanisms Flight Engineer

AST SpaceMobile

Lanham, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

AST SpaceMobile is building the first and only global cellular broadband network in space to operate directly with standard, unmodified mobile devices based on our extensive IP and patent portfolio and designed for both commercial and government applications. Our engineers and space scientists are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today's five billion mobile subscribers and finally bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected.
Position Overview:
The Mechanisms Flight Engineer is responsible for the verification, operational readiness, and flight execution support of spacecraft deployment and actuation systems. This role focuses on mechanisms represented within the flat sat environment, including deployment actuators, drive assemblies, hold-down and release mechanisms (HDRMs), and gimbaled systems.
This engineer will verify command and telemetry paths, motor drive performance, sensor feedback, and end-to-end mechanism functionality prior to flight. The role owns the execution and validation of flight operations procedures for deployment and actuation events, including commanding and monitoring mechanisms, validating timelines and mode transitions, rehearsing commissioning activities, and reproducing on-orbit conditions in the lab to support anomaly investigation and resolution.
The Mechanisms Flight Engineer serves as the critical link between mechanism hardware and control-system bring-up in the electronics lab and the successful execution of deployment and actuation events throughout the mission lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Build, configure, and maintain the mechanism drive and control representation on the flat sat, including harness routing, connector integration, motor drivers, actuator electronics, release-device fire circuits, and position/feedback sensors.
  • Perform bring-up, functional checkout, and troubleshooting of mechanism drive electronics and control paths, including motors, position sensors, peripheral devices, and HDRM circuits.
  • Develop, execute, and maintain automated and manual procedures for mechanism functional verification, including deployment, actuation, and gimbal-pointing activities.
  • Create and utilize scripting and test automation tools to improve test repeatability, efficiency, and verification coverage.
  • Execute flight operations procedures for mechanism deployments and actuation events, including commanding mechanisms, monitoring telemetry, validating timelines, and verifying mode transitions.
  • Rehearse and validate commissioning, deployment, and on-orbit actuation events in the flat sat environment.
  • Reproduce on-orbit mechanism conditions in the laboratory to support anomaly investigation, troubleshooting, and resolution.
  • Verify mechanism electrical interfaces against ICDs, schematics, and engineering requirements, including continuity, pinout verification, power distribution, motor phases, sensor signals, and HDRM circuitry.
  • Instrument and monitor mechanism performance using laboratory test equipment including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, DMMs, programmable power supplies, and data loggers.
  • Capture and analyze telemetry and test data, including motor current signatures, heater and RTD data, switch states, and deployment timing metrics to assess mechanism performance and health.
  • Support real-time mission operations during deployment and actuation activities by monitoring telemetry, executing procedures, and providing hardware-informed engineering support during critical mission events.
  • Maintain configuration control of flat sat hardware, software, and testbed builds to ensure accurate representation of flight configurations and document all deltas.
  • Collaborate closely with Mechanisms, Avionics, Software, Integration & Test, Systems Engineering, and Flight Operations teams to close verification activities and resolve technical issues.

Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Experience:
  • Minimum 3+ years of hands-on experience in spacecraft integration and test, flight hardware operations, mission operations, or related engineering disciplines involving mechanism control systems, actuators, or complex electromechanical systems.
  • Experience with electronics bring-up, mechanism actuation and control, and electrical troubleshooting using laboratory instrumentation.
  • Experience developing automated test procedures and scripts (Python preferred) for functional verification, integration testing, or operational validation.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, interface control documents (ICDs), and engineering drawings.
  • Experience performing connector verification, harness validation, and electrical interface testing.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Direct experience supporting spacecraft mechanisms, flat sat environments, spacecraft integration and test (I&T), or mission operations.
  • Experience commanding and monitoring deployment or actuation events through telemetry and command interfaces.
  • Experience with motor drive and actuator control systems, including brushed DC, brushless DC, and stepper motors, encoders, and closed-loop positioning systems.
  • Experience with spacecraft commissioning activities, deployment operations, sequence validation, timeline verification, or ground-segment interfaces.
  • Experience supporting anomaly investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective action implementation.
  • Familiarity with spaceflight hardware development and operational readiness activities.

Soft Skills:
  • Strong systematic troubleshooting skills with the ability to isolate whether a fault is mechanical, electrical, firmware, software, or operational in nature and drive resolution to root cause.
  • Meticulous documentation practices and configuration management discipline.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain composure during real-time deployment and actuation events where actions may be time-critical and irreversible.
  • Self-directed and proactive in a fast-paced, small-team environment.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Technology Stack:
  • Python and scripting languages for test automation and verification.
  • Exposure to embedded C/C++ and embedded systems development is a plus.
  • Laboratory instrumentation including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, digital multimeters, programmable power supplies, and data loggers.
  • Configuration management and document-control systems such as Windchill, Arena, and Git.
  • Jira or equivalent issue-tracking tools.
  • Microsoft Office Suite.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to perform hands-on hardware operations in electronics laboratory and cleanroom environments for extended periods.
  • Ability to work with cabling, fine-pitch connectors, electronic assemblies, and precision flight hardware.
  • Compliance with ESD and contamination-control protocols.
  • Ability to use computers, engineering workstations, and laboratory instrumentation for extended periods.
  • Willingness to support occasional nights, weekends, and mission-critical operations associated with launch, commissioning, and on-orbit deployment activities.
  • Ability to lift and manipulate hardware, cabling, and test equipment as required for integration and test activities.

This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.
AST SpaceMobile is an Equal Opportunity, at will Employer; employment is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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