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Flight Performance Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Draper

Flight Software Engineer, Distinguished

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$100K - $275K/yr

Draper is looking for a highly skilled Flight Software Engineer, Distinguished to join the Mission ... The engineer develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets. They design and ...

Inuplands

Flight Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$62.50 - $140/hr

## Flight Software EngineerApplyremote type: Onsite Requiredlocations: Cambridge, MAtime type: Full ... The Software Engineer 1 develops high performance solutions for resource constrained targets.

Draper

Senior Flight Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$62K - $275K/yr

... high-performance, fault-tolerant flight software for resource-constrained platforms across air ... The Senior Engineer will own the end-to-end software lifecycle-from requirements analysis and ...

Medium

Aeronautical Test Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Plan and execute performance and GNC/ flight control laws optimization for fixed‑wing aircraft. * Plan and implement engineering and flight test plans and procedures for component, ground, taxi ...

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All JobsFlight Performance Engineer JobsFlight Performance Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

Flight Performance Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$12

$65

$106

How much do flight performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight performance engineer in Boston, MA is $65.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.56 and $73.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

Flight Performance Engineer jobs near you

Aeronautical Test Engineer

Enigma Aerospace

Burlington, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Enigma Aerospace is seeking an Aeronautical Test Engineer to lead the analysis and testing of our next-generation, runway-independent autonomous fixed-wing aircraft. This role will involve significant contributions to aircraft design through analysis, simulation and testing of aircraft and flight subsystems from the benchtop, to ground test, through flight testing, ensuring our aircraft perform as expected and is ready for inclusion in demonstrations, exercises, and sustained flight operations.
This is a cross-functional position that spans aircraft design and analysis, flight test, flight software modifications, avionics/telemetry, instrumentation, and system integration. You'll work alongside software, avionics, systems, and other engineering teams to ensure our flight systems are ready for complex, real-world operations.
Responsibilities
  • Plan and execute performance and GNC/ flight control laws optimization for fixed-wing aircraft.
  • Plan and implement engineering and flight test plans and procedures for component, ground, taxi, and flight operations based on aircraft design requirements and software changes.
  • Instrument aircraft with sensors, data acquisition, and telemetry systems; validate calibration and data integrity.
  • Analyze post-flight data, generate reports, and provide actionable feedback to design and systems teams.
  • Work with controls, avionics, propulsion, and systems engineers to align test objectives with performance requirements.
  • Participate in integration, repair, and fabrication of aircraft and sub-systems.
  • Feed flight data, analyses and insights to aircraft design teams and processes.
  • Conduct safety reviews, risk assessments, and test readiness reviews.
  • Contribute to development and maintenance of engineering, regulatory and operational documentation.
  • Travel up to 25% of time.

Desired Qualifications
  • BS/MS or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Controls, or a related field.
  • Strong understanding of aircraft dynamics and flight controls.
  • 7+ years of experience in aerospace and flight test engineering, or related field specifically on fixed-wing, autonomous aircraft systems.
  • Strong & demonstrated knowledge and experience with GNC/ Flight control law software including open source software such as PX4 and Ardupilot.
  • Hands-on experience with fixed-wing aircraft flying and/or testing (manned or unmanned).
  • Proficiency with data acquisition and analysis software, scripting and tools (MATLAB, Python or similar) and telemetry/DAQ systems.
  • Knowledge of flight test regulations, safety protocols, and UAS operational requirements.
  • Must be eligible to work in the U.S without company sponsorship and ability to receive and hold government security clearances.
  • Exceptional communication and organizational skills.

Great to have Qualifications and Skills
  • Experience supporting experimental flight test programs at startups or R&D organizations.
  • Familiarity with flight control systems, avionics, propulsion, autopilots.
  • FAA Part 107 certification or piloting experience.
  • Experience with system modeling tools or HIL/SIL environments.
  • Interest in operating at the boundary of software and hardware in a fast-paced startup.
  • Knowledge of industry (ASTM) and FAA/DoD experimental test standards.
  • You are a systems thinker who can balance performance, safety, and complexity.
  • You are mission-oriented, detail-driven, and excited to move quickly from design analysis to test design to flight.

Benefits, Equity, & Work Location
Enigma Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package including generous healthcare with the option to include an HSA, a 401k plan with a company match component, unlimited PTO, flexible work-from-home policies, stock options, free parking on-site, and a well-stocked snacks and coffee environment.
This position is eligible for equity compensation.
Our headquarters is currently located in Burlington, MA. This position is primarily on-site with an expectation that commuting to our test sites will be required often.
About Enigma Aerospace
Enigma Aerospace is building the next-generation autonomous air cargo solution for military and commercial markets. By combining a novel fixed-wing aircraft design with advanced mission and flight autonomy software, Enigma enables runway-independent resupply in vast, contested theaters and dramatically reduces the cost of commercial cargo delivery. Our technologies deliver charter-level performance at freight prices, redefining what's possible in the $150B air cargo market.
Headquartered in Burlington, MA, Enigma is a venture-backed company founded by UAS and logistics experts, including a U.S. Air Force veteran. The founding team brings experience from leading organizations such as American Robotics, Airobotics, Exponent, the United States Air Force, Parsons, DIU, and Apple.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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