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Flight Performance Engineer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

PNT/GPS Engineer

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... performance. * Engineering Analysis and Review * Assists in the technical review of engineering documentation. Under the guidance of senior engineers, supports the evaluation of Flight Clearances ...

... boundaries of engineering, models, services, and technology development. Visit us at www ... Perform theoretical, aerodynamic studies to evaluate factors (performance, stability, trajectory ...

... boundaries of engineering, models, services, and technology development. Visit us at www ... Perform theoretical, aerodynamic studies to evaluate factors (performance, stability, trajectory ...

... boundaries of engineering, models, services, and technology development. Visit us at www ... Perform theoretical, aerodynamic studies to evaluate factors (performance, stability, trajectory ...

... boundaries of engineering, models, services, and technology development. Visit us at www ... Perform theoretical, aerodynamic studies to evaluate factors (performance, stability, trajectory ...

... boundaries of engineering, models, services, and technology development. Visit us at www ... Perform theoretical, aerodynamic studies to evaluate factors (performance, stability, trajectory ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

2027 PhD Graduate - Missile GN&C Engineer - Flight Navigation, Guidance & Control Evaluation and Dev

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research


Job description

Description
Do you have a passion for applied research and development in the field of Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C)?
Are you interested in working on cutting edge weapon systems that are critical for the survivability and long-term deterrence strategy of the United States?
Are you up to the challenge of providing critical insight into the GN&C performance of Nuclear Ballistic Missile Systems, hypersonic missile systems, and influencing the design of next-generation weapon systems?
If you are graduating or have recently graduated with a PhD degree in engineering, math, or physics, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
The Strategic Flight Guidance, Navigation, and Control Group is seeking a passionate PhD Grad to help us with the design, implementation and evaluation of GN&C subsystems for the nation's primary missile systems. You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians who are enthusiastic about their role as an independent evaluator for the nation's strategic systems. We strive to foster an environment of innovation and learning to develop the critical technologies and experts of the future.
As a Missile GNC Engineer You Will:
  • Develop innovative GN&C methodologies for next-generation strategic missile flight systems.
  • Apply state estimation techniques to solve problems with very large state representations for applications in on-board implementations and post-flight analysis.
  • Develop and understand underlying weapon system navigation related error models from a fundamental math and physics perspective.
  • Work with modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB and Simulink to generate navigation sensor models and conduct performance trade studies.
  • Develop navigation algorithms for 6-DOF simulations.
  • Present analysis and results to sponsors that depend on APL to independently inform weapon system performance and designs.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have, or soon to have, a PhD in Engineering, Physics, Math, or a related field.
  • Have had coursework and/or research experience in flight dynamics, guidance, navigation, or control, linear state-space systems, physical system modeling, or estimation theory.
  • Are inquisitive and are willing to learn new skills and expand your capabilities.
  • Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain 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 experience with MATLAB or another programming language such as C++.
  • Have experience or coursework with aided inertial navigation error analysis or system development.
  • Have experience or coursework with Kalman filtering.
  • Hold an active Secret or higher-level clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
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. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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