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Flight Performance Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CHAOS Industries

Aerodynamics Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

CHAOS is seeking an Aerodynamics Engineer to lead the aerodynamic design, analysis, and flight performance optimization of fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems and missile-class vehicles. This role ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology ... As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of ...

Antramo, Inc

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

About The Role The Senior Flight Test Engineer will play a critical role in the planning, execution ... Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft performance. * Understanding of human factors and ...

Leidos

Flight Dynamicist

San Diego, CA

Develop high-fidelity simulations and digital engineering models to support concept development ... performance and identify key design drivers and technical risks. * Perform flight mechanics ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans & test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship ... Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft performance. * Understanding of human factors and ...

Canvas

Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Edwards, CA · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended ... Perform post-flight analysis of telemetry and flight data to verify system performance against ...

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Flight Performance Engineer information

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$96

How much do flight performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight performance engineer in California is $59.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.65 and $67.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior flight performance engineers or aerospace engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in the aerospace industry. High compensation often reflects leadership roles, complex project responsibilities, or working for major aerospace companies with demanding schedules and technical expertise.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace or flight performance engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often working in the aerospace or defense industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such high compensation typically requires specialized expertise, leadership roles, or working for major corporations in high-demand sectors.

Is there a demand for Flight Engineers?

The demand for Flight Engineers has decreased significantly with advancements in aircraft automation and modern aircraft design, leading to fewer openings in the field. However, opportunities may still exist in specialized roles, older aircraft maintenance, or in regions with limited automation, requiring relevant certifications and experience. Overall, the role is becoming less common in the aviation industry.

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 do aircraft performance engineers do?

Aircraft performance engineers analyze and optimize the performance of aircraft, including fuel efficiency, speed, and handling characteristics. They use flight data, simulations, and engineering tools to ensure aircraft meet safety and efficiency standards, often working closely with design teams and pilots. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of aerodynamics and aircraft systems are essential for this role.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Performance Engineer jobs in California? For Flight Performance Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Performance Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Performance Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Flight Performance Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Flight Performance Engineer job openings:
Flight Performance Engineer jobs near you

Aerodynamics Engineer

CHAOS Industries

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead aerodynamic design and analysis of interceptors and long-endurance uncrewed vehicles.

  • Develop aerodynamic databases and models for use in 6-DOF simulation, GNC development, and mission analysis.

  • Perform CFD analyses across subsonic, transonic, and supersonic regimes.

Job description

CHAOS Industries is redefining modern defense with a multi-product portfolio that gives the ultimate advantage-domain dominance. The company's products are powered by Coherent Distributed Networks (CDN™), empowering warfighters, commercial air operators, and border protection teams to act faster, adapt rapidly, and stay ahead of evolving threats.
CHAOS Industries was founded in 2022 and has raised a total of $1 billion in funding from leading investors, including 8VC, Accel, and Valor Equity Partners. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, with offices in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, and London. For more information, please visit www.chaosinc.com.
Role Overview:
CHAOS is seeking an Aerodynamics Engineer to lead the aerodynamic design, analysis, and flight performance optimization of fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems and missile-class vehicles. This role will be responsible for developing aerodynamic models, performing high-fidelity CFD analysis, supporting flight test campaigns, and driving vehicle design decisions from concept through operational deployment.
You will work closely with guidance, navigation & control (GNC), propulsion, structures, manufacturing, and flight test teams to create highly maneuverable, efficient, and producible air vehicles capable of operating in demanding mission environments.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead aerodynamic design and analysis of interceptors and long-endurance uncrewed vehicles.
  • Develop aerodynamic databases and models for use in 6-DOF simulation, GNC development, and mission analysis.
  • Perform CFD analyses across subsonic, transonic, and supersonic regimes.
  • Conduct trade studies evaluating wing planforms, control surfaces, airfoil selection, vehicle sizing, and stability characteristics.
  • Analyze static and dynamic stability, control effectiveness, trim conditions, and maneuver performance.
  • Evaluate aerodynamic interactions between airframe, propulsion systems, and payloads.
  • Develop reduced-order aerodynamic models from CFD and test data.
  • Support wind tunnel testing, captive-carry testing, and flight test activities.
  • Correlate CFD, wind tunnel, and flight test results to improve model fidelity and vehicle performance predictions.
  • Partner with GNC engineers to characterize vehicle dynamics and improve closed-loop performance.

Minimum Requirements:
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in aerodynamic design and analysis of fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, guided munitions, or unmanned aerial systems.
  • Strong understanding of compressible and incompressible aerodynamics, flight mechanics, stability and control, and aircraft/missile performance.
  • Experience with Missile DATCOM or similar first order solvers
  • Experience with CFD tools such as STAR-CCM+, ANSYS Fluent, or equivalent.
  • Experience generating aerodynamic coefficients and force/moment databases.
  • Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or similar engineering analysis tools.

Preferred Requirements:
  • MS or PhD in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or similar discipline
  • Experience with missile, interceptor, or high-performance UAS development programs.
  • Experience developing aerodynamic models for 6-DOF simulations.
  • Experience with high speed vehicles
  • Experience supporting wind tunnel campaigns and flight test programs.
  • Active U.S. Security Clearance or ability to obtain one.

Why CHAOS?
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision benefits 100% paid for by the company
  • Additional benefits: 401k (+ 50% company match up to 6% of pay), FSA, HSA, life insurance, and more
  • Our Perks: Free daily lunch, 'No meeting Fridays', unlimited PTO, casual dress code
  • Compensation Components: Competitive base salaries, generous pre-IPO stock option grants, relocation assistance, and (coming soon!) annual bonuses
  • Team Growth: 250 employees and counting across 5 global offices

Salary Range: $160,000 - $240,000
The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base compensation range and excludes additional earnings such as bonus, equity, and benefits. If your compensation requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations.
Recruiting Agencies: CHAOS Industries does not accept unsolicited resumes or outreach. Unsolicited submissions will not be reviewed or compensated.
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