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Flight Test Control Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Flight Test Control Engineer information

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$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

How much do flight test control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test control 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 are Flight Test Control Engineers?

Flight Test Control Engineers are specialized engineers responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing the testing of aircraft systems and components during flight tests. They work closely with pilots, test engineers, and other team members to ensure that flight tests are conducted safely and efficiently, gathering and analyzing data to validate aircraft performance and compliance with regulations. Their role is crucial in identifying potential issues and ensuring that new or modified aircraft meet all safety and operational requirements before entering service.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior flight test control engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in aerospace systems, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually. High compensation is often associated with leadership roles, specialized skills, and working for major aerospace or defense companies in a highly technical environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Test Control Engineers during test campaigns?

Flight Test Control Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to changing test parameters, coordinating real-time data collection with multiple teams, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols during dynamic flight conditions. They must also troubleshoot unexpected technical issues on the ground and in-flight, often under tight deadlines. Collaboration with pilots, instrumentation engineers, and regulatory representatives is crucial to ensure successful and compliant test operations.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A Flight Test Control Engineer typically does not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within aerospace or related industries. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities may approach high six-figure incomes, but salaries of $500,000 are rare for this position alone.

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

AspectFlight Test Control EngineerFlight Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace or related field, certifications like FAA or EASA preferredBachelor's or higher in aerospace or mechanical engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentTest ranges, aircraft facilities, control roomsFlight testing sites, laboratories, aircraft
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace manufacturing and testingDesign, execute, and analyze flight tests in aerospace

Both roles require aerospace knowledge and certifications, but Flight Test Control Engineers focus on managing test operations and control systems, while Flight Test Engineers are involved in planning and conducting the actual flight tests. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities within the flight testing process.

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

To thrive as a Flight Test Control Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, flight test principles, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, telemetry systems, and specialized software (such as MATLAB or LabVIEW) is typically required, along with certifications like FAA DER or EASA equivalent being advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help coordinate test activities and interpret results. These competencies are vital to ensure the accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance of flight test operations.

How much do flight test engineers get paid?

Flight test control engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Senior engineers or those working on complex projects may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires knowledge of aerospace systems and testing procedures.

What does a flight control engineer do?

A flight control engineer designs, tests, and manages the control systems that ensure an aircraft's stability and maneuverability. They analyze flight data, develop control algorithms, and work with simulation tools to optimize aircraft performance, often requiring knowledge of aerodynamics, control theory, and avionics systems.
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Flight Test Control Engineer

Flight Test Control Engineer

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Fort Worth, TX • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Flight Test Control Engineer for the Test and Evaluation (T&E) Mod Team, primarily supporting F-35 test aircraft. The successful applicant will provide FTCE support for test aircraft modification operations at our Test Sites. Tasks will involve pre-mod coordination including working with the FW Flight Test Ops Center and Test Sites on mod planning, evaluating Basis of Estimates (BOE) for mod work, defining Production Equipment (PE) tooling requirements, identifying mod team skillset needs; Integrated schedule development; Providing a detailed execution plan; Mod Team onsite management; Serving as the ALIS POC during mod execution; Verifying engineering, technical and support data; Verifying work instructions and coordinating revisions; Coordinating applicable GFR/DCMA 8210 and CGOP requirements.


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About Lockheed Martin

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As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912