1

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

Full-Stack Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Observability, incident response, performance tuning, and the scalable patterns that hold as volume ... flight data, customer ERPs. Most don't have clean APIs. Some claim a shipment is delivered while ...

... flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people ... This role encompasses team leadership, management, and technical performance. Department ...

New

... flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people ... This role encompasses team leadership, management, and technical performance. Department ...

New

Aircraft Performance Data Analysis * Process Improvement * Problem Solving * Cross-functional ... Experience with avionics and flight systems * This role is subject to ITAR/EAR; candidates must be ...

Aircraft Performance Data Analysis * Process Improvement * Problem Solving * Cross-functional ... Experience with avionics and flight systems * This role is subject to ITAR/EAR; candidates must be ...

Aircraft Performance Data Analysis * Process Improvement * Problem Solving * Cross-functional ... Experience with avionics and flight systems * This role is subject to ITAR/EAR; candidates must be ...

Showing results 21-40

Flight Performance Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$61

$101

How much do flight performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 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 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.
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.

Space Sr. Principal Engineer Systems

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site


Northrop Grumman Corporation
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, but they're also making history.
The Mission and Payload Programs organization within the Northrop Grumman Space Systems pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!
Our Systems Engineering Integration & Test (SEIT) organization within Space Superiority Division provides complex subsystems and defense electronics. This position can be hired as a Sr Principal Systems Engineer (level 4)based on their qualifications in one or more of the following 3 disciplines: (1) Systems Design (2) Modeling & Simulation, and (3) Integration & Test.
This position is part of the Space Sectors' Eastern Region SEIT Engineering Organization located at Rolling Meadows, IL.
Systems Design Tasking can include:
• SEIT Lead & Cost Account Management
• Creating and refining Model Based System Engineering products (System behavioral models, Use Case realizations, State Machines, etc.)
• Generation and update of specifications in DOORS, including requirements traceability and dxl script development
• Capability assessments to predict requirement compliance
• Functional algorithm development
• Risk assessment and burn down of mitigation steps
• Generating and reporting system Technical Performance Measures
• Presenting analysis that shapes the system design and obtaining end-customer buy-in
• Interface development and documentation
Modeling & Simulation Tasking can include:
• Software development of physics-based in-house models and algorithms
• Perform analysis and trades of product line architectures using analytical models and mission level simulations
• Functional algorithm development
• Authoring technical documentation such as white papers, proposal technical volumes, program milestone briefings (i.e. SRR, PDR, CDR,...), systems engineering design documentation
• Presenting technical analysis to multiple stakeholders
• Creating and refining Model Based Systems Engineering Products (System behavioral models, Use Case realizations, State Machines, etc.)
Integration & Test Tasking can include:
• SEIT Lead & Cost Account Management
• Systems: sensors/antennas, transmitters/receivers, optics, and associated lab equipment
• Full life cycle experience developing, integrating, and deploying space systems
• Experience with real-time signal processing
• Knowledge of MATLAB, Python, or other scripting languages
• Working knowledge of Robot Framework, or other test automation frameworks
• Working knowledge of DOORS and ClearCase/ClearQuest
• Experience creating and executing integration & test and design verification test plans and procedures
• Experience performing system verification and validation
• Agile development experience a plus
• Supporting Systems Integration Labs (SIL) testing
• Ability and willingness to travel
Basic Qualifications:
• Sr Principal Systems Engineer: BS + 8 years of experience; MS + 6 years of experience; PhD + 3 years of experience
• BS and/or MS degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics or related technical degree.
• Educational background or experience with signal processing and algorithm development
• Proficient with MATLAB or Python object-oriented programing languages
• U.S. citizen with ability to obtain U.S. Government DoD Top Secret security clearance at time of application
Preferred Qualifications:
• Demonstrate history of strong organization and coordination skills (working with cross-functional teams).
• Knowledge of the space domain (e.g. orbital mechanics, remote sensing, etc.)
• Strong RF domain background (link budget, waveform modulation schemes, transceiver technologies, antennas)
• Integration and test experience; familiarity with signal generators and spectral analyzers
• Active TS/SCI with adjudicated polygraph is preferred
#SpaceEngJobs
#SpaceSysEngJobs
Primary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939


What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom