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Flight Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Minimum of 2000 hours of flight time as a C-130/L-382 Flight Engineer * Previous experience in curriculum development. * Ability to hold creditability and the attention of the customer attendees.

Flight Engineering Manager

Everett, WA · On-site

$153K - $207K/yr

Flight Engineering Manager Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) is seeking a Flight Engineering Manager (Level K) to lead the Noise, Vibration & Emissions organization within ...

C-130 L-382 Instructor Flight Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$59K - $67K/yr

Minimum of 2000 hours of flight time as a C-130/L-382 Flight Engineer * Previous experience in curriculum development. * Ability to hold creditability and the attention of the customer attendees.

The Flight Operations Engineer takes our aircraft from the hangar to the sky and back, and owns the technical depth behind every flight. You set up the test site, prepare the aircraft, run preflight ...

The Flight Operations Engineer takes our aircraft from the hangar to the sky and back, and owns the technical depth behind every flight. You set up the test site, prepare the aircraft, run preflight ...

As a Flight Sciences Engineer at Elroy Air, you will own performance analysis, flight dynamics, and configuration trades across our hybrid-electric lift+cruise VTOL program. You will be the ...

As a Flight Sciences Engineer at Elroy Air, you will own performance analysis, flight dynamics, and configuration trades across our hybrid-electric lift+cruise VTOL program. You will be the ...

As a Flight Sciences Engineer at Elroy Air, you will own performance analysis, flight dynamics, and configuration trades across our hybrid-electric lift+cruise VTOL program. You will be the ...

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Flight Engineer information

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$46.5K

$118.5K

$260.5K

How much do flight engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight engineer in the United States is $118,512.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $115,000.00 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 are hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Flight Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Flight Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Flight Engineer jobs? The top employers for Flight Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Flight Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Flight Engineer job openings in the United States 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 $118,512 per year, or $57 per hour.
FLIGHT ENGINEER (INSTRUCTOR) with Security Clearance

FLIGHT ENGINEER (INSTRUCTOR) with Security Clearance

Department of the Army

Rochester, NY • On-site

$62K - $70K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


United States Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 481 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties As a Flight Engineer (Instructor), GS-2185-10, you will instruct and perform flight crew work supporting heavy multi engine aircraft, and to provide assistance to the pilot in the overall operation of the aircraft. Primary aircraft include CH 54 Tarbe medium-lift helicopter, CH 47 Chinook medium-lift transport helicopter, and/or UH 60A Black Hawk transport helicopter. The aircrafts missions include combat service support airlift for movement of heavy supplies, vehicles, aircraft and equipment, troop air assaults, extractions and resupply of troops, and aeromedical evacuations, search and rescue, ice break, mine sweep, and air support of national disasters and state contingencies.

Requirements Conditions of employment * NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED. If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact a National Guard recruiter prior to applying for this position. * This is an excepted service position that requires membership in a compatible military assignment in the employing state's National Guard, required prior to the effective date of placement.

* 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. * Applicants who are not currently a member of the National Guard must be eligible for immediate membership and employment in the National Guard in the military grade listed in this announcement.

* Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service. * Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation. * May be required to successfully complete a two year trial period.

* Participation in direct deposit is mandatory. * For positions requiring the operation of motor vehicles, candidates must have a valid state driver's license for the state in which they live or are principally employed. * For positions requiring a security clearance (Secret or Top Secret) the applicant must possess or be able to obtain a clearance within one year of appointment.

Qualifications Military Grades: Enlisted GENERAL EXPERIENCE : Experience which has provided the applicant with a knowledge of aircraft weight and balance computations; aircraft performance data; aircraft records maintenance; and aircraft systems. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE : Must have 36 months experience as a Flight Engineer. Flight Instructor qualification preferred or must be able to attend Flight Instructor Course within one year of appointment.

Must have experience serving as instructor/flight examiner providing instruction, evaluation, and examination on ground and operational training flights to develop and upgrade skills of aircrew members applying knowledge of the full range of aircrew duties and responsibilities, methods of instruction, and requirements of the program. Experience ensuring prescribed programs of instruction for aircrew training is adequately covered in terms of course content, coverage, and scope of material presented and adapt instruction to proficiency level of individuals being rated. Experience with assessing newly assigned individuals' level of experience and training through review of training records and/or proficiency flight evaluation to determine proficiency and skill status; plan and conduct aircrew training program; prepare formal course outlines; schedule and conduct initial, refresher, and continuing training.

Experience with providing training on in-flight planning and coordination responsibilities, operating principles and characteristics of major aircraft systems, aircraft parameters, operational/mission requirements, equipment systems operation/and troubleshooting, proper and correct methods of performing aircrew duties, e.g., use of aircraft performance charts, computation and aircraft weight and balance, techniques of aircraft internal loading, forms and records completion, arm and hand signals, ground handling of aircraft, use of ground equipment, techniques of normal and rapid (hot) refueling, armament rearming, passenger briefing, sling(external) loads, hoist operations, observer duties, and emergency procedures. Must have experience with performing duties of Flight Engineer which includes utilizing a knowledge of major aircraft systems associated with heavy multiengine aircraft, the interrelationships among these systems, and capabilities of the aircraft. Experience with assisting pilots in preflight planning, monitoring adherence to flight plan, and operating aircraft engines and a wide variety of aircraft control systems, e.g., engine, fuel, electrical, hydraulic, fire suppression, environmental, pressurization throughout the flight.

Experience with inspecting condition and readiness of aircraft, accompanies pilots on preflight/in-flight inspections and aircraft test flights, and perform operational checks to monitor aircraft control devices and indicators. Experience with determining and monitoring factors and data affecting performance of aircraft, such as temperature, altitude, humidity, field conditions, configuration and weight of aircraft, on aircraft takeoff, flight and landing, and keeps pilot informed; computes fuel and cargo load, and weights and balance factors; prepare for combination loads determining placement of cargo and passengers within weight and balance limitations. Must have experience with prior to takeoff, insuring cargo is properly secured, and proper publications and emergency equipment are aboard as required such as recovery hardware, slings, litters, etc.

Experience in assisting in familiarizing crew members with operating procedures by briefing on mission equipment and use of life support equipment and safety emergency procedures. Experience with reporting operational progress to pilot; updates and records in-flight performance data, observes warning indicators for system failure or malfunction performing aircraft systems operational checks and troubleshooting systems. Must have experience in providing direction to pilot during ground maneuvers, direct off-loading of cargo.

Experience in maintaining records of operational equipment indicating flights, repairs, maintenance, and inspections; coordinates with maintenance personnel on activities on discrepancies requiring action. Education Education requirements - Not applicable for this position Additional information 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 ( ).


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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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