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Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DCS CORPORATION

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Can you see yourself performing and succeeding as a Flight Test Engineer in a dynamic team environment? DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air ...

804 Technology

Flight Test Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$85 - $95/hr

804 Technology is currently seeking a Flight Test Engineer for a contract job opportunity that is Hybrid remote and in Seattle WA. The primary role in this position is as a Flight Test Engineer who ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Mojave, CA Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

Salary Range: $84,137 - $120,000 DCS Corp has an exciting potential opportunity supporting the Navy Test Wing Atlantic located at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a Flight Test Engineer. This position ...

Saxon Global

Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Senior Flight Test Engineer Location - Long Beach, CA Duration- Fulltime Domain - Aerospace / Aviation industry Mandatory Skills Flight Test Engineering, Test Planning, Cross-Functional Integration ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$107K - $174K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes developing detailed ...

AeroTEC Inc.

FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER

Moses Lake, WA · On-site

The Test & Evaluation Department provides expertise in Flight Test Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering and Installation, Test Pilot Support and Telemetry Operations. About the Role The primary ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, CA · On-site

$107K - $174K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes developing detailed ...

DCS CORPORATION

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

Salary Range: $84,137 - $120,000 DCS Corp has an exciting potential opportunity supporting the Navy Test Wing Atlantic located at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a Flight Test Engineer. This position ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$107K - $174K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes developing detailed ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a ...

Stratolaunch, LLC

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a ...

AeroTEC, Inc.

FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER

Moses Lake, WA · On-site

The primary role in this position is as a Flight Test Engineer who is responsible for coordinating test and certification requirements, authoring and executing flight and ground test plans for a wide ...

Sceye inc

Flight Test Engineer

Moriarty, NM · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Sceye is currently seeking a full-time Flight Test Engineer to join the Mission Operations Team. As Sceye expands, more test engineers are needed to perform Acceptance Testing of ...

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 ...

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Icarus was founded on the belief that the Stratosphere is the Forgotten Frontier and that reclaiming it will define the next era of aerospace and what is possible from the sky.

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 ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

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 ...

MORSE Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

Flight Test Engineer Cambridge, MA MORSE Corp is an employee owned, small business based in Cambridge, MA, Arlington, VA, and Seattle, WA with a history of fielding cutting-edge technology. MORSE ...

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All JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs

Flight TEST Engineer information

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$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 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 engineers with specialized skills, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large companies or defense contractors are more likely to reach this compensation level.

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.

How hard is it to become a flight test engineer?

Becoming a flight test engineer typically requires a bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering, along with experience in aircraft systems and testing. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of flight operations, and familiarity with testing protocols are essential, and obtaining certifications like the FAA's pilot or test pilot license can be beneficial. The role often involves rigorous training and safety procedures, making it a challenging but achievable career path for qualified engineers.

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 with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace or defense companies.

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 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 regulations. 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 standards.
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Flight TEST Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 80% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,885 per year, or $64.8 per hour.
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

DCS CORPORATION

Patuxent River, MD • On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Salary Range: $60,467 - $90,423
Are you ready to perform hands-on, cutting-edge work in Aviation?
Can you see yourself performing and succeeding as a Flight Test Engineer in a dynamic team environment?
DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers are located at the Naval Air Test Center at Naval Air Station Patuxent River Maryland. Full-time T&E positions for current and future Navy/Marine aircraft and stores are available supporting the Navy Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department at Naval Air Station, Patuxent River in beautiful St. Mary's County.
Selected candidates will participate in ongoing flight test operations and receive training and mentoring from experienced DCS and Government engineers across several areas:
  • Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures for Fixed Wing Tactical or Maritime Aircraft
  • Rotary Wing and Small Unmanned Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures
  • Aircraft Propulsion & Subsystems
  • Aircraft Ship Suitability
  • Air Vehicle Stores Compatibility and Ballistics & Weapons Employment

High performing participants may have the potential to attend the Flight Test Engineer course at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.
Essential Job Functions:
The Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department requires full-time engineering support to:
  • Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test and/or evaluate aircraft and aircraft related systems.
  • Review and prepare engineering and technical analyses, reports, change proposals, and other technical documentation.
  • Prepare flight cards for aircraft testing during the development and V&V phases.
  • Prepare and present flight briefings.
  • Prepare and communicate flight test objectives.
  • Develop flight test profiles.

Required Skills:
Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required.
ABET accredited BS Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeromechanical or Mechanical Engineering is required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.
GPA of 3.75 or higher required.
Desired Skills:
Fast learner and able to work in a team environment.
https://careers.dcscorp.com/pages?page=dcsbenefits
DCS logo

About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

Social media

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