ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Flight Performance Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Codal

Marketing Campaign Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$97K - $119K/yr

... platform engineering, cloud architecture, big data and AI, serving as the premium development ... Identify execution gaps and follow-up opportunities based on in-flight performance * Lead retros ...

Codal

Marketing Campaign Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$97K - $119K/yr

... platform engineering, cloud architecture, big data and AI, serving as the premium development ... Monitor in-flight performance and make optimisations * Report results confidently, connecting ...

Codal

Marketing Campaign Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$97K - $119K/yr

... platform engineering, cloud architecture, big data and AI, serving as the premium development ... Monitor in-flight performance and make optimisations * Report results confidently, connecting ...

Ascend Engineering

Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an embedded software engineer to develop and maintain low-level flight software for ... field performance. This position requires someone who is equally comfortable in a datasheet, a ...

TSMG

B2 Licensed Aircraft Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... performance standards. Your responsibilities will include troubleshooting, conducting routine ... Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections of electrical and avionics systems to ensure ...

TSMG

B2 Licensed Aircraft Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... performance standards. Your responsibilities will include troubleshooting, conducting routine ... Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections of electrical and avionics systems to ensure ...

Astronics

Structural Analysis Engineer IV

Chicago, IL · On-site

... for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems ... Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.Safety and Security ...

Astronics

Sr. Engineer, Software (FW)

Waukegan, IL

... for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems ... performance requirements of overall system. Provide pre-sales support and contribute to the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFlight Performance Engineer JobsFlight Performance Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Flight Performance Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$61

$101

How much do flight performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight performance engineer in Chicago, IL is $61.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.77 and $70.10 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 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?

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 Chicago, IL? For Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Performance Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Flight Performance Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Performance Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,787 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

Engineer - Flight Operations (Remote)

United Airlines, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

United Airlines rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 341 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 26 rated airlines

Job description

Description
Get ready for a career at the leading edge of the airline industry! Our Flight Operations team works hard to connect people and unite the world safely, reliably and efficiently every single day. From industry leadership and pioneering technologies to next-level training - our Flight Ops team hires, trains, qualifies and supports the best pilots in the industry. The moments we share in the air and on the ground with our customers and our colleagues make United a special place to work and a great way to fly, together.
Job Overview and Responsibilities
The Flight Operations Engineer will have basic knowledge of aircraft performance
They will work under the guidance of a lead engineer to develop all aspects of aircraft performance which may include takeoff and landing performance, enroute performance, driftdown, terrain clearance, decompression, ETOPS, MEL performance effects, Weight and Balance engineering, and development of performance data in support of company flight manuals.
The flight operations engineer will support development of performance software applications, analysis for new stations, markets, and fleets, tools to increase operational efficiency, and support of all internal and external customers in the interpretation and analysis of aircraft performance data, maintaining and developing airport and obstacle data, including NOTAM information and special engine-out departure procedures.
They will work with databases and modern analytics packages to improve operational safety and efficiency
  • Aircraft Performance on Runway Performance/Flight Planning/Weight and Balance Systems.
  • Create and review Aircraft Performance data and perform testing in support of these projects.
  • Provide input to development team on the fuction and operation of these systems.
  • Maintains and support all aspects of Aircraft Performance and related data for United Airlines under the guidance of lead / Senior engineer
  • Manages Airport and Obstacle Data, including NOTAMS, for assigned airports under the guidance of the lead engineer
  • Develops and maintains tools, software application to support operations and increase efficiency

Qualifications
What's needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
  • Bachelor's degree or 4 years of relevant work experience
  • 2 years of experience in airline flight operations engineering or related area targeted to a specific United Airlines fleet
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Must be flexible and willing to be available on-call to support operations per United Airlines CORE 4 values
  • Knowledge and interest in aircraft performance engineering, weight and balance, and airline operations
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
  • Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
  • Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Attended Boeing and/ or Airbus Performance Engineering classes
  • Good Presentation skills
  • Experience in airplane performance engineering
  • Strong Excel skills
  • Python skills
  • SQL
  • Data Analytics

What United Airlines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

United Airlines logo

About United Airlines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

United Airlines is embarking on an exciting journey to become the best airline in aviation history. Our purpose, "Connecting People, Uniting the World," extends beyond transportation, emphasizing our commitment to uplift and create opportunities in the places we serve. With a global presence and diverse workforce, we value inclusivity and are dedicated to hiring tens of thousands of individuals across various roles. Our comprehensive benefits package, including perks like space available travel, parental leave, and 401k, aims to support your well-being and growth.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1926

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All United Airlines Jobs

Apply