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Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elroy Air

Flight Test Engineer

Byron, CA · On-site

The Flight Test Engineer at Elroy Air will drive the development and certification of Chaparral, our autonomous VTOL cargo aircraft reshaping middle-mile logistics. You'll architect and execute ...

MORSE Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Cambridge, MA

As Flight Test Engineer at MORSE, you are a critical member of the team taking vehicles from concept to flight leading fast-paced, iterative, and rigorous test campaigns managing both local and ...

JetZero

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

JetZero is seeking a Senior Flight Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, and analysis of experimental aircraft flight tests supporting upcoming JetZero full scale demonstrator. This role ...

SCEYE INC

Flight Test Engineer

Moriarty, NM · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Location: Moriarty, NM Reports to: Chief of Mission Operations Who Are We: Sceye is a high-growth technology company, building the next generation of instant communications ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to work closely as part of the Flight Test team, working with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and to direct ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to work closely as part of the Flight Test team, working with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and to direct ...

LHH US

Flight Test Engineer

Moriarty, NM · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Flight Test Engineer Location: Eastern New Mexico Employment Type: Full-Time LHH is partnering with an innovative aerospace organization developing advanced high-altitude flight systems to hire a ...

New

Astrion

Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Overview Flight Test Engineer JOB LOCATION: Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability to Obtain Secret Astrion is seeking an intermediate level Flight Test Engineer to support Missile ...

Astrion

Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$105K - $115K/yr

Overview Flight Test Engineer JOB LOCATION: Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability to Obtain Secret Astrion is seeking an intermediate level Flight Test Engineer to support Missile ...

Bombardier

Flight Test Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

The candidate must hold a Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or have previous experience within a flight test engineering organization. Product specific development and training will be ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to work closely as part of the Flight Test team, working with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and to direct ...

LHH US

Flight Test Engineer

Moriarty, NM · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Flight Test Engineer Location: Eastern New Mexico Employment Type: Full-Time LHH is partnering with an innovative aerospace organization developing advanced high-altitude flight systems to hire a ...

New

JetZero

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

JetZero is seeking a Senior Flight Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, and analysis of experimental aircraft flight tests supporting upcoming JetZero full scale demonstrator. This role ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

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Flight TEST Engineer information

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How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in the United States is $134,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers, including experienced Flight Test Engineers working in the aerospace industry, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, and extensive experience. High-level engineering roles in specialized fields such as defense, space exploration, or executive positions tend to have the highest compensation, often requiring advanced certifications and significant expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Test Engineers during the testing process?

Flight Test Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing safety with the need to gather comprehensive data during test flights. They must coordinate closely with pilots, design teams, and regulatory bodies to ensure all test objectives are met while adhering to strict safety protocols. Weather conditions, unexpected aircraft behavior, and last-minute design changes can also impact test schedules. Effective communication, adaptability, and attention to detail are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful test outcomes.

What is the difference between Flight Test Engineer vs Flight Test Technician?

AspectFlight Test EngineerFlight Test Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace or mechanical engineering; often requires FAA or EASA certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's in aerospace technology or related field; certifications may vary
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, analyzing flight tests; collaborating with engineers and pilotsAssisting with test preparations, data collection, and aircraft inspections
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace manufacturing, research, and developmentInvolved in testing and maintenance within aerospace companies and testing facilities

Flight Test Engineers focus on designing and analyzing flight tests, requiring advanced engineering skills and certifications. Flight Test Technicians support these activities through hands-on testing and data collection. Both roles are essential in aerospace testing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How much do flight test engineers get paid?

Flight test engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior engineers or those working for major aerospace companies may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires specialized skills in aeronautics and testing procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Test Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, strong analytical abilities, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and simulation software—along with certifications like FAA DER or EASA equivalent—are often required. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with pilots and multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities ensure accurate data collection, safe test operations, and successful validation of aircraft performance and safety standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace or flight test engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like defense or commercial aviation. These roles often require advanced degrees, leadership responsibilities, and work in complex testing environments.

What are Flight Test Engineers?

Flight Test Engineers are specialized professionals who plan, conduct, and analyze tests on aircraft and aerospace systems to ensure they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. They collaborate with pilots, design engineers, and technicians to develop test plans, monitor test flights, and interpret data collected during these flights. Their work is crucial in identifying potential issues, validating design changes, and certifying aircraft for operational use. Flight Test Engineers often work for aircraft manufacturers, government agencies, or research organizations.

What Does a Flight Test Engineer Do?

As a flight test engineer, your job is to oversee testing the operations and performance of aircraft in line with FAA regulations and guidelines from the manufacturer. This job frequently involves planning, managing, coordinating, and executing a full spectrum of aircraft testing, including tests on all mechanical and electronic systems. Some details of this job vary based on the kinds of aircraft with which you work. Flight test engineers may work with everything from single-engine civilian aircraft to large, military planes. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of a flight test engineer often requires meeting the qualifications for a security clearance, studying guides and technical manuals, contacting part manufacturers, and excellent communication skills.

What do flight test engineers do?

Flight test engineers design, plan, and oversee testing of aircraft and aerospace systems to evaluate performance, safety, and compliance with specifications. They analyze test data, troubleshoot issues, and work closely with pilots, engineers, and manufacturers using specialized tools and instrumentation. Their work often involves testing in controlled environments and requires knowledge of aerodynamics, systems integration, and safety protocols.
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Flight TEST Engineer jobs near you
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

Elroy Air

Byron, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

The Flight Test Engineer at Elroy Air will drive the development and certification of Chaparral, our autonomous VTOL cargo aircraft reshaping middle-mile logistics. You'll architect and execute flight test programs that push the boundaries of autonomous flight systems, working with engineers, pilots, and technicians to validate performance in real-world operations. This role offers the chance to tackle cutting-edge challenges in vertical flight and autonomy while directly impacting how critical supplies reach communities worldwide.
Responsibilities
  • Test Planning: Develop detailed ground and flight test plans, procedures, and test cards for autonomous VTOL aircraft. Define test objectives, parameters, and instrumentation needs while collaborating with engineers to align plans with certification requirements and manage risk assessments.
  • Flight Testing: Conduct flight tests for autonomous systems including navigation, control, cargo handling, and mission autonomy systems. Operate data acquisition systems during flight tests to collect real-time performance data and evaluate system reliability across flight conditions and VTOL/forward flight profiles.
  • Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze and interpret flight test data to evaluate system performance and identify deviations from expected results. Generate timely, comprehensive reports with data summaries, analysis results, and conclusions. Provide actionable recommendations for aircraft design and performance improvements.
  • System Integration and Validation: Participate in system integration testing and validation activities for aircraft subsystems. Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to troubleshoot issues and verify system performance against specifications.
  • Instrumentation and Modeling: Configure, calibrate, and maintain flight test instrumentation systems. Utilize modeling and simulation to predict aircraft performance, comparing simulated predictions with actual flight performance to validate models and improve accuracy.
  • Safety and Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and company policies during flight tests, with particular emphasis on autonomous operations. Maintain compliance with FAA and UAS regulations while participating in safety reviews and risk assessments.
Our Ideal Candidate
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • 4+ years of flight test engineering experience with preference for autonomous systems, VTOL aircraft, or UAS operations
  • Deep understanding of flight test methodologies, aircraft systems integration, and autonomous flight control systems
  • Proficiency in instrumentation, data acquisition, and analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
  • Working knowledge of FAA Part 107, proposed FAA Part 108, and other UAS regulations and certification requirements.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with excellent technical communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively in dynamic flight test environments, including outdoor flight test operations and schedules impacted by weather
Bonus Points For
  • Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field
  • 8+ years of experience in flight testing or a related engineering field, with experience in autonomous systems or VTOL aircraft
  • Experience with DOD aircraft programs, and familiarity with military airworthiness processes
  • Experience developing safety cases and risk assessments for novel autonomous aircraft configurations
  • Hands-on experience with flight dynamics modeling and simulation-based test planning
  • Private Pilot's License or higher
  • Certification Experience with DO-178C, DO-254, or similar
What's in it for you
  • Pioneer the future of logistics: You'll help create aircraft systems that have never existed before, directly enabling critical supply delivery, and transforming middle-mile transportation.
  • Shape an emerging industry: As an early team member, you'll help define the autonomous cargo aircraft category and establish new standards for vertical flight logistics.
  • Accelerate your career: Join a fast-growing team where your contributions directly impact company direction, and grow alongside experienced aerospace professionals in a collaborative, learning-focused environment.
  • Work with exceptional talent: Collaborate with a team of kind, brilliant engineers, pilots, and technicians who are passionate about solving hard problems and building groundbreaking technology.
  • Own meaningful equity: Equity package with real upside potential as we scale autonomous cargo operations nationwide.
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Full medical/dental/vision coverage, 401(k) with company matching, generous parental leave, and flexible PTO policy.
  • Flexible work environment: Hybrid work options when not conducting flight operations, with a collaborative office culture that values work-life integration.
We strongly encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences—many of our most valuable team members have taken non-traditional paths to aerospace. If you're passionate about autonomous flight and transforming logistics, we want to hear from you.

Ready to help build the future of cargo aviation? Apply today and join a team that's redefining what's possible in autonomous flight.
Please note: This position requires eligibility to access export-controlled technology under U.S. regulations, and any employment offer will be contingent on meeting these requirements.

Elroy Air manages all recruiting activities internally through our People & Places team and does not work with external recruiting agencies unless under written agreement.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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.