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Flight Performance Engineer Jobs in Lusby, MD (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Engineer, Sr

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$115K - $200K/yr

... flight test support and flight data analysis, and/or familiarity with aircraft performance ... Knowledge of sound engineering practices that may include such areas as requirement tracking ...

Aerospace Engineer, Sr

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$115K - $200K/yr

Be the engineering lead in support of flight control system development; aircraft modeling and ... flight test support and flight data analysis, and/or familiarity with aircraft performance ...

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Flight Performance Engineer information

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How much do flight performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight performance engineer in Lusby, MD is $60.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.23 and $67.98 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.

MQ-9 Reaper Radar Flight Test Engineer - Journeyman

Tekla Research

Patuxent River, MD โ€ข On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Education:Bachelor of Science (BS) in an engineering discipline or related technical field from an accredited college or university.
Experience:
  • Minimum of at least 3 years of professional engineering experience that has consisted of performing the foregoing engineering functions
  • At least 3 years shall have consisted of performing engineering functions with respect to support, research or development of mechanical, electrical, or aerospace systems plus experience in requirements development, test planning, coordinating and executing test and evaluation activities, analysis of data products, and presentation and documentation of system performance results.
  • 3 years experience assisting more senior positions performing functional duties of a similar position.A journeyman employee level person typically performs all functional duties independently.

Desired Experience
  • Unmanned aerial Systems (UAS) experience
  • Radar, IFF, Navigation, EO/IR, and sensor test
  • Aircraft Test and Evaluation, including sensors and systems integration
  • Sense and Avoid systems

Position Description:
  • Journey-level Flight Test Engineer responsible for MQ-9 Reaper radar flight test and evaluation
  • Applies engineering principles to research, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test, or evaluate systems.
  • Reviews and prepares engineering and technical analyses, reports, change proposals, and other technical documentation.
  • Applies engineering experience to perform functions such as system integration, design, configuration management, quality assurance testing, or acquisition and resource management.
    Must be a U.S. Citizen

Benefits:
Medical, Dental, & Vision Plan, short- and long-term disability, accidental death & dismemberment, 401K retirement & matching, Tuition assistance program, direct deposit, leave package and 11 paid federal holidays.
Salary:
The projected salary range for this position is $90,000-$130,000; however, this is not a guarantee of salary.Salary will be set based on experience and contractual requirements.