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Flight Performance Engineer information

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$10

$56

$91

How much do flight performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight performance engineer in Arizona is $56.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.91 and $63.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Flight Performance Engineers?

Flight Performance Engineers are specialized professionals responsible for analyzing and optimizing the performance of aircraft during all phases of flight. They assess factors such as fuel efficiency, payload, climb rates, and range to ensure aircraft operate safely and efficiently. Their work involves using advanced software models, interpreting flight test data, and collaborating with design and operations teams to improve aircraft performance and meet regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Flight Performance Engineer vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectFlight Performance EngineerFlight Test Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering; often certifications in aeronauticsBachelor's in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering; certifications in testing or aviation
Work EnvironmentAircraft performance analysis, in-flight data monitoring, and optimizationDesign, plan, and execute flight tests, analyze test data
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aircraft manufacturers, aerospace companiesAircraft manufacturers, aerospace testing facilities, defense contractors

While both roles involve aircraft and aeronautics, Flight Performance Engineers focus on analyzing and optimizing aircraft performance during flights, whereas Flight Test Engineers design and conduct flight tests to validate aircraft systems. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Performance Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Performance Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in simulation software (such as MATLAB, Simulink, or flight performance analysis tools) and knowledge of regulatory standards are essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set exceptional candidates apart in this field. These skills are critical for ensuring accurate performance calculations, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to guarantee safe and efficient aircraft operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Performance Engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Flight Performance Engineers frequently work with teams from avionics, propulsion, aerodynamics, and operations. A common challenge is translating complex performance data into actionable insights that are understandable to colleagues from different technical backgrounds. Additionally, aligning performance requirements with design and regulatory constraints often requires strong communication and negotiation skills. Successful Flight Performance Engineers proactively foster open dialogue and use data visualization or simulation tools to bridge knowledge gaps and ensure all stakeholders are aligned on project goals.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Arizona? For Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Flight Performance Engineer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Flight Performance Engineer job openings:
Flight Performance Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Performance Engineer job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,503 per year, or $56 per hour.
Principal Flight Test Engineer

Principal Flight Test Engineer

ORSA Technologies LLC

Yuma, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION: Principal Flight Test Engineer
Orsa Technologies is seeking qualified candidates to provide Principal Engineer Operational Flight Test and Evaluation to Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron One. The Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer will conduct operational tests and evaluations to ensure the effectiveness and suitability of Marine Corps aviation assets, which include UAS, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft. The Operational Test Engineer works closely with pilots and other Marine Corps and Navy subject matter experts to plan for test events, collect data, and analyze results. Draft reports to ensure verified and validated operational requirements are met, and capabilities are effective and suitable.
DAILY RESPONSIBILITES MAY INCLUDE:
  • Work closely with active-duty test directors, government civilians and contractor support staff to plan for, execute, collect/analyze data, report on test and evaluation events.
  • Plan and administer performance tests on military aeronautical equipment, controls, systems, and other products and systems.
  • Designs and directs engineering and technical personnel in testing and test-control apparatus and equipment.
  • Coordinate and direct engineering activities concerning the development, procurement, installation, and calibration of instruments, equipment, and control devices required to test, telemeter, record, and reduce test data.
  • Determine conditions under which tests are to be conducted and sequences/phases of test operations. Direct and exercise control over operational, functional, and performance phases of tests.
  • Primarily responsible for the creation and dissemination of test data cards for all test events. At the conclusion of test events, will review all data cards to ensure all data has been captured.
  • Analyzes and interpret test data and prepare technical reports for use by engineering and management personnel.
  • Test planning functions involve determining measures, data requirements, and flight condition requirements to safely provide evaluation, qualification, and certification data. Will have the lead responsibility of preparing for test planning meetings and writing test plans.
  • Test conduct involves briefing flight and ground crews and real-time telemetry monitoring of critical parameters. Large volumes of gathered flight data are processed, analyzed, and reported. Will have the lead responsibility of writing test reports and data analysis summaries.
  • This position also involves significant teamwork and coordination with flight test co-workers in various disciplines (pilots, mechanics, inspectors, instrumentation, and data technicians), qualification or certification authority representatives, and subject matter expert design engineers.
  • Is the primary interface with Operational Test Authorities and the lead expert in the mechanics of their test processes.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor of Science (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or other technical field) degree or equivalent experience and training.
  • At least 8 years of experimental or Operational flight test experience as a Flight Test Engineer.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with colleagues across various technical disciplines.
  • Must be capable of completing an NCIC criminal background check to access military installations.
  • Strong technical and analytical skills.
  • Must be able to work independently and on a team and travel as required.
  • Read and speak English proficiently.
  • Must be able to write clear and concise test documents
  • Must be a US citizen.
  • Must have a valid photo ID (driver's license + social security card or birth certificate OR US passport).
  • Must have a valid driver's license/vehicle insurance to drive on U.S. Military Installations.
  • Must be able to travel based on program requirements.

DESIRED REQUIREMENTS:
  • B.S. in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering
  • Experimental flight test experience as a Flight Test Engineer, preferably including VTOL or STOVL and fly-by-wire.
  • Aircraft maintenance or pilot experience, preferably from a recognized test pilot school or equivalent on the job experience.
  • Experience with Modeling and Simulation tools such as MATLAB and Simulink
  • General knowledge of aviation rules and procedures
  • Computer skills to include Microsoft Office applications and basic knowledge of analytical software
  • Ability to effectively communicate orally and in written reports
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to assess problems quickly and easily.
  • Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
  • Ability to multi-task and employ problem-solving skills
  • Ability to take the initiative in problem-solving and achieve organizational goals with minimal oversight

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: This position requires a government security clearance. Must be a US Citizen for consideration. Must possess a secret clearance or be able to obtain a secret clearance.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate of Science degree from an accredited course of study in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or other technical field.
ORSA Technologies is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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