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Flight Test Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$115K - $215K/yr

Support aircraft maintenance, configuration control, and system readiness * Create and improve ... flight test, unmanned aircraft systems, aircraft integration, or aerospace systems engineering

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, CA

$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 ...

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 ...

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

San Mateo, CA

$115K - $215K/yr

Support aircraft maintenance, configuration control, and system readiness * Create and improve ... flight test, unmanned aircraft systems, aircraft integration, or aerospace systems engineering

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Flight Test Engineer makes sure every Icarus flight produces clean, trustworthy engineering data. You build the test cards and criteria, oversee their execution in the field, jump in on parameter ...

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The Flight Test Engineer makes sure every Icarus flight produces clean, trustworthy engineering data. You build the test cards and criteria, oversee their execution in the field, jump in on parameter ...

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Flight Test Engineer makes sure every Icarus flight produces clean, trustworthy engineering data. You build the test cards and criteria, oversee their execution in the field, jump in on parameter ...

Reliable Robotics

Sr. Flight Test Engineer

San Martin, CA · On-site

$190K - $260K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer at Reliable Robotics, you will be a part of the Flight Test and ... The team regularly ensures the proper function of mechanical, electrical, and flight control ...

Hermeus

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $187K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer at Hermeus, you will help plan, coordinate, and execute ground and ... Conduct/direct ground and flight tests as part of the flight crew in the ground control station

Hermeus

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $187K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer at Hermeus, you will help plan, coordinate, and execute ground and ... Conduct/direct ground and flight tests as part of the flight crew in the ground control station

Clutch Canada

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$138.55 - $187.45/hr

Coordinate engineering and certification activities for flight test vehicles * Determine and ... Develop and maintain processes to ensure aircraft and systems configuration control * Work jointly ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

... control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to ... As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning ...

LTA Research

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$115K - $170K/yr

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

Socket.dev

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

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

LTA Research

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$115K - $170K/yr

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

LTA Research

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$115 - $170/hr

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

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFlight Test Control Engineer JobsFlight Test Control Engineer Jobs in California

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 Aug 25, 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 is a flight test control engineer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight test control engineer?

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.

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 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.

How do I become a flight test control engineer?

To become a flight test control engineer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Relevant skills include knowledge of flight test procedures, data analysis, and control systems, often complemented by experience with testing tools and certifications such as FAA control room training or safety standards. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level engineering roles in aerospace companies is also important.

How much do flight test control engineers make?

Flight test control engineers typically earn between $80,000 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 does a flight test control engineer do?

A flight test control engineer plans, coordinates, and monitors flight test activities to evaluate aircraft performance and safety. They develop test procedures, analyze data, and ensure tests comply with safety standards, often using specialized software and instrumentation. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of aeronautical systems.
Flight Test Control Engineer jobs near you

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Shield AI
Software Development • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Shield AIexternal

$115K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Shield AI is seeking an experienced Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and improve ground and flight test operations for a fast-paced next gen aircraft system. You will work closely across several segment owners of engineering, operations, autonomy, systems integration, product support, and manufacturing.  
What you'll do:
  • Develop, publish, and execute comprehensive flight test plans, procedures, cards, risk assessments, safety, and readiness reviews 
  • Support integration and test of aircraft systems, payloads, comms/data links, software, ground control systems, and mission equipment 
  • Lead and coordinate pre-flight, flight, and post-flight activities, including system configuration, instrumentation, telemetry, data collection and test reports 
  • Analyze ground and flight test data to identify performance trends, anomalies, root causes, and corrective actions 
  • Coordinate with engineering teams to validate requirements, troubleshoot issues, and mature system capabilities 
  • Lead or participate in test range operations, safety briefings, go/no-go decisions, and test setup and logistics  
  • Document test results, lessons learned, anomalies, and recommendations in clear technical reports 
  • Support aircraft maintenance, configuration control, and system readiness 
  • Create and improve flight test processes, tools, data workflows, and operational efficiency 
  • Create and maintain ground and air operating limitations requirements  
  • Travel to test sites, customer locations, and field exercises as required 
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM Degree) 
  • 5-10 years of experience with developmental and/or operational ground and flight test, unmanned/manned aircraft systems, aircraft integration, or aerospace systems engineering 
  • Strong understanding of aircraft systems, flight dynamics, avionics, telemetry, sensors, or control systems  
  • Proven ability to write and execute structured test plans, procedures, and reports 
  • Strong troubleshooting skills in field and/or lab environments 
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work across engineering and operations teams 
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 80% for candidates not based in the Wichita Metro Area, including travel to test sites, ranges, and other field locations
  • Overtime and weekend coverage as required 
Preferred qualifications:
  • 10+ years of experience with developmental and/or operational ground and flight test, unmanned aircraft systems, aircraft integration, or aerospace systems engineering 
  • Experience in Group 4-5 UAS and/or fighter type capability or similar weapons systems 
  • Familiarity with FAA, DoW, and test range flight operations 
  • Experience with autonomy, navigation, mission planning, and Command-and-Control (C2) systems 
  • Hands-on experience with aircraft maintenance, avionics integration, payload integration, and ground support equipment  
  • Experience with telemetry systems, flight and data logs, sensor data, datalinks, and RF systems 
  • Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or crewed aviation experience 
  • Proven Mission Control Room experience using Integrated Analysis & Data System (IADS) or similar development FTI display system  
  • Experience leading or supporting developmental flight test campaigns from design through planning and execution to include reporting 
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is practical, detail-oriented engineer who is comfortable in control rooms, hangar/maintenance areas, and office type environments. You can write a detailed test plan, troubleshoot hardware and software at a test site, analyze flight data, and communicate clearly under operational pressure. You are safety-minded, have high technical acumen, and motivated by building and validating advanced and complex aircraft systems 
 
#LI-AA1
#LD

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. 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.