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

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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.

Junior Engineer (VX-20)

Systems Application & Technologies Inc

Patuxent River, MD โ€ข On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Work Location: Patuxent River, MD

Pay Details: $80,000 - $145,000+ / year (depending on experience)


Systems Application & Technologies, Inc. (SA-TECH) is a progressive and well-established Department of War (DoW) contractor specializing in Range operations and maintenance (O&M); weapons testing; facilities management; aerial, ground and seaborne targets O&M; technical, logistics and other engineering support; systems integration; electronics and communications maintenance services; and a growing cybersecurity business. We are highly focused and, among other efforts, currently operate a dozen active test and/or training ranges for the Army, Air Force and Navy. Our 36-year heritage is founded on supporting complex and diverse DoW programs and we've developed a standout reputation for providing the highest quality services, superior workmanship and cost-effective results while achieving complete customer satisfaction.


At the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division in Patuxent River, MD, SA-TECH supports the Aircraft Instrumentation Division (AID) of the Prototyping, Experimentation, and Instrumentation (PIE) Department and we are currently looking to hire an Instrumentation Engineer to support VX-20 and serve as an authoritative technical specialist responsible for the design, development, construction, and test and evaluation of complex, advanced Special Flight Test Instrumentation (SFTI) systems and sub-systems, with special expertise in the area of data processing hardware and software.ย 


This engineer acts as a technical authority concerning SFTI data processing matters and performs the research and development necessary to provide complex, advanced hardware and software for use in support of flight test data operations. The engineer performs investigations into the availability of commercial hardware to advance capabilities in the area of aircraft data acquisition. In this role, you'll provide advice to customer leadership and senior staff personnel on a broad range of unusual and complex technical matters in the area of aircraft testing and data processing. You'll create and manage the processes and procedures necessary for customer personnel to perform post-flight data processing utilizing knowledge of airborne data acquisition and processing systems theory and operations.


The basic duties of the position include (but are not limited to):

  • This position will support VX-20 for E-2D and P-8.
  • Instrumentation system design, integration, calibration, and flight support.
  • Manage small to medium instrumentation projects to include cost, schedule, and performance.
  • Instrumentation includes providing support from the design, programming, and build of the instrumentation through and including the ground test and/or flight test by performing pre-flights, post-flights, re-calibrations, flight support at the ground station, data validation, and data playback.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Conditions:

  • Conditions will vary although most work will be performed in enclosed buildings.
  • Work will include sitting, standing, walking, lifting and reaching.
  • Must be capable of lifting 50 lbs. solo and 50-100 lbs. assisted by others.
  • Working hours are 0530 to 1500 or 0600-1530.
  • Sometimes need to work flex working hours, sometimes need to work overtime.
  • May require periodic travel.

Requirements

Education/Experience/Skills:

  • BS in Physics or Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution.ย 
  • One - three (1 - 3) years of experience required at a minimum, with more experience desired.
  • Experience with flight test instrumentation associated with the design and programing of the instrumentation to collect, store, and transmit the data required to meet customer's needs.
  • Recent experience with flight test instrumentation and associated programming and validation tools is desired (not required).
  • Working knowledge and experience using Microsoft Office and Microsoft SharePoint.
  • Current Driver's License required; must be able to be insured through company's vehicle insurance policy while driving work/government/rental vehicles during working hours, and for the duration of employment.
  • U.S. Citizenship required and you must be able to obtain a U.S. DoW Secret Security Clearance prior to hire date and maintain a Secret clearance throughout employment.
  • All candidates will be required to pass background screening to include SSN, Driver Record, and Criminal Background Investigation.

Working At SA-TECH:

As a highly regarded and long-established DoW employer, SA-TECH recognizes that our success is indicative of our team members' hard work and dedication towards a common goal... Supporting our Warfighters. Along with unparalleled stability, we have the ingredients for superior performance with a servant leadership mentality that provides an affirmation of purpose and value in a team-oriented positive work environment. As such, we provide a sense of family, competitive pay and employee benefits, along with a strong commitment to the professional development of our workforce and for providing broad career opportunities throughout the United States.


SA-TECH offers:

  • Employee Recognition
  • Above-Average Compensation
  • Competitive Benefits
  • Ongoing Training and Development
  • Career Advancement Opportunities

Benefits Offered:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • EAP
  • Education Assistance
  • PTO and Holidays
  • Vacation and Sick Leave

Other Important Information You Should Know:

  • By applying to this posting, you express interest in the position and may be considered for other opportunities within the company that match your skills.
  • SA-TECH offers flexible work schedules depending on the program, alongside generous PTO benefits.
  • We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and evaluate all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status. We participate in the E-Verify system to verify work authorization in the U.S.
  • Applicants are encouraged to apply within 5-15 days of posting for optimal consideration.
  • We prioritize a supportive work environment, professional development, and a healthy work-life balance and our pay and benefits aim to enhance employee well-being. If this culture resonates with you, we invite you to apply. If you're uncertain about your fit, please explore other roles on SA-TECH Careers .


All responses will be handled with strict confidentiality.


** Please note that any provided salary information is a general guideline. SA-TECH considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education, training, and skills as well as market and business considerations when extending offers.