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Flight Test Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of ... You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a Test Conductor, or other lead ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of ... You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a Test Conductor, or other lead ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans & test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship ... Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems.

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans & test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship ... Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems.

Mach Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

This position will specialize in flight test engineering, operations, and testing of developing UAS ... S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans & test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship ... Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems.

Lockheed Martin

Flight Test Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

We are Lockheed Martin As a Flight Test Engineer you will be responsible for leading the flight ... from the control room (TD and TC). Maintain detailed specific knowledge of all aspects of the ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$107K - $174K/yr

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 flight ...

JetZero

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA

JetZero is seeking a Senior Flight Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, and analysis of ... Coordinate across engineering disciplines to ensure system readiness and configuration control

Canvas

Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Edwards, CA · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended ... Coordinate with range control, program offices, and control room personnel to ensure adherence to ...

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 ...

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Flight Test Control Engineer information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$133.1K

$201.3K

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

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test control engineer in California is $133,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,100.00 and $157,900.00 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, specialized skills, and certifications in aerospace testing, can earn salaries around or above $300,000 annually. High compensation is often associated with leadership roles, complex projects, or working for major aerospace or defense companies. Factors such as location, company size, and individual expertise influence salary levels in this field.

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?

Flight Test Control Engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive, senior management, or specialized engineering roles in aerospace or defense industries. Top-tier aerospace engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities may reach high six-figure incomes, but salaries of $500,000 are rare for this specific role.

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 for major aerospace companies may earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills in flight testing procedures and systems.

What does a flight control engineer do?

A flight control engineer designs, tests, and manages the systems that control an aircraft's flight, such as autopilot and stability systems. They analyze flight data, develop control algorithms, and ensure system reliability, often using simulation tools and working closely with aerospace teams during aircraft development and testing.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Control Engineer jobs in California? For Flight Test Control Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test Control Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test Control Engineer jobs in California are:
Flight Test Control Engineer jobs near you
Flight Test Control Engineer

Flight Test Control Engineer

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Edwards, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 388 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

We are Lockheed Martin
Flight Test Ground Operations (Control) Engineer for F-35 aircraft. The successful applicant will provide Flight Test Ground Operations engineering support. Tasks will include coordination and execution of pre-flight and post-flight activities to ensure aircraft's test readiness including issuance, and closure of documentation relating to work performed on the aircraft, and coordination of aircraft modifications. Position requires control and tracking of aircraft configuration, coordinating and staging of support equipment, developing and maintaining aircraft test schedules, and coordinating with other organizations associated with test readiness. Related skills include:
Schematic reading/interpretation/troubleshooting.
Knowledge of installed aircraft systems/subsystems and Support equipment.
Knowledge of avionics/mission systems and vehicle/utility systems.
Fault isolation and/or problem analysis at the subsystem level.
Good knowledge of the system/software engineering environment.
Authoring test and technical documents (EIR/TCTD/AOL/GML, etc.), plus directing and overseeing their execution.
The individual must be fluent in the Flight Test Request (FTR) and T2 modification processes. This position will act as the principal focal point between maintenance and engineering personnel. The ability to interface with all levels of project management is desired. Above average oral and written communication skills are required. Exceptional planning and coordinating skills are also required.
**Must be a US Citizen. This position is located at a facility that requires special access.*
What's In It For You
Our employees play an active role in strengthening the quality of life where we live and work by volunteering more than 850,000 hours annually. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:
Medical
Dental
401k
Paid time off
Work/life balance
Career development
Mentorship opportunities
Rewards & recognition
Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here.
***THE ABILITY TO WORK EXTENDED HOURS AND WEEKENDS EITHER FIRST (1ST) OR SECOND (2ND) SHIFT IS REQUIRED.***

What Lockheed Martin employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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

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