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Flight Performance Engineer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

GN&C Flight Analyst Are you excited by the thought of evaluating missile and hypersonic aerospace ... the performance of dynamic systems. * Are proficient in Matlab object-oriented programming.

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 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 ...

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 ...

Senior Propulsion Engineer

Glen Burnie, MD

$101K - $138K/yr

Interface with related engineering disciplines to provide propulsion related expertise (flight performance, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, GNC, operations, etc.) * Support ...

Rotorcraft & Flight Test Engineer The Opportunity: Join a dynamic engineering team focused on ... and performance Use Flightlab to analyze and model various rotorcraft configurations Match ...

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Flight Performance Engineer information

What is a flight performance engineer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight performance engineer?

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 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.

Are flight performance engineers in demand?

Flight performance engineers are in steady demand within the aerospace industry due to their specialized skills in aircraft efficiency, systems analysis, and performance optimization. Employment opportunities are often linked to aerospace manufacturing, airline operations, and government agencies, with a focus on advanced technical knowledge and certifications. The role typically requires a background in aerospace engineering and familiarity with simulation tools and performance testing.

How much does a flight performance engineer get paid?

A flight performance engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher compensation, often including benefits and bonuses.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Maryland?

For Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Maryland are hiring for Flight Performance Engineer jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Flight Performance Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Flight Performance Engineer job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

GN&C Flight Analyst Jobs

ClearanceJobs

Laurel, MD • On-site

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Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

GN&C Flight Analyst

Are you excited by the thought of evaluating missile and hypersonic aerospace vehicle performance using advanced simulation tools and real flight test data? Are you up to the challenge of working with and learning from specialists in the field of Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) and state estimation? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. We are seeking an inquisitive engineer with a background and strong interest in Inertial Navigation, Guidance, Control, and Estimation to help us evaluate the performance of our nation's most advanced hypersonic and ballistic missile systems. As a GN&C Flight Analyst, you will:

  1. Analyze flight test data from GNC telemetry and navigation sensors including inertial measurement units (IMU), Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, RADAR, or other sensor systems.
  2. Develop proficiency with analysis tools and methods to understand overall flight performance of ballistic and hypersonic missile and reentry systems.
  3. Support the design, development, and maintenance of flight analysis software and procedures required to evaluate current and future flight system performance.
  4. Present findings to a broad internal audience as well as sponsors and external organizations at working groups, post-flight briefings, and program reviews.
  5. Collaborate with experts in industry and academia to gain a better understanding of weapon system performance and accuracy.

Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Have a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics (or closely related technical field).
  • Have 1+ years of relevant experience in one or more of the following: Optimal Estimation Methods (Kalman Filters), Inertial Navigation, Flight Dynamics, Flight Data Analysis, or Guidance and Controls Performance Analysis.
  • Are willing and able to travel occasionally (potentially 2-3 trips per year with a duration of one week or less).
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top-Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Have an M.S. (or above) in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Physics (or closely related technical field) or 3+ years of relevant professional experience.
  • Have a strong sense of curiosity to understand how and why a system works and the ambition to follow up on that curiosity.
  • Have experience evaluating the performance of aerospace vehicles using real-world test data (IMU, GPS, RADAR, or similar) and have a strong understanding of their dynamics.
  • Have experience evaluating aerospace vehicle Guidance and Control performance and stability
  • Have proficiency with simulation tools (functional or covariance) that predict the performance of dynamic systems.
  • Are proficient in Matlab object-oriented programming.
  • Currently hold an active Secret clearance (or above).

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area.