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Flight Test Control Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lockheed Martin

Aeronautical Engineer Sr

Henderson, NV · On-site

We are Lockheed Martin As an Flight Test Control Engineer (FTCE), you will be part of the Flight Test team of professionals. FTCE will have a strong background in developmental flight testing working ...

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 ...

804 Technology

Flight Test Engineer

Seattle, WA

Flight Test Engineer The primary role in this position is as a Flight Test Engineer who is ... control; minimum control speeds; stall characteristics; high speed characteristics, crosswind ...

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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 ... control; minimum control speeds; stall characteristics; high speed characteristics, crosswind ...

Tyonek Native Corporation

Perform flight engineer test duties both from ground test control locations as well as collection of data in flight in multiple aircraft types. * May act as Test Directors and supervise flight test ...

AeroTEC Inc.

FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER

Moses Lake, WA · On-site

The Test & Evaluation Department provides expertise in Flight Test Engineering, Instrumentation ... To meet export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.15 is ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

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.

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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 Jul 1, 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, 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.
More about Flight Test Control Engineer jobs
What states have the most Flight Test Control Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Test Control Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test Control Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test Control Engineer jobs are:
Flight Test Control Engineer jobs near you
Flight Test Engineer/Test Conductor

Flight Test Engineer/Test Conductor

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Edwards, CA • On-site

$140K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) is seeking a Flight Test Engineer / Test Conductor to join our growing team at Edwards AFB in California. This position may be hired at the Associate, Career or Senior level.
This individual will be responsible for planning, execution, and reporting of flight tests for military platforms as a Test Conductor.
The following specific duties are anticipated:
• Author and review ground and flight test plans and test cards.
• Author and review flight test safety plans.
• Schedule resources for tests and coordinate with many engineering disciplines and outside agencies to ensure successful test execution.
• Lead test mission briefs as a Test Conductor
• Lead the execution of test missions as a Test Conductor
• Complete post-test mission reporting requirements.
• Other duties in-line with MTSI's core value to "Own and Solve our Customer's Problems."
Required:
• Bachelors degree in Engineering is required.
• Possess a willingness to accept changing and evolving roles & responsibilities in support of our customers' requirements and needs.
• Have a reputation of being a team player and work well in a team environment, as well as independently.
• Possess maturity and professionalism to lead the execution of flight test missions, briefings and oversee team of discipline engineers in a Mission Control Room.
Desired:
• Coursework relating to aeronautics, flight test, and/or electronic warfare capabilities
• Private Pilot license
• Prior experiences as a test conductor, test director, or flight test control room engineer
Travel:
Approximately 10-25% travel may be required.
Clearance Requirements:
Candidates must be able to qualify for and maintain a Top Secret clearance with special access programs.
U.S. Citizenship is required
This position may be filled at multiple levels depending on candidate pool. Anticipated salary depends on experience:
Associate Flight Test Engineer: $97,000 - $115,000 annually
Career Flight Test Engineer: $115,000 - $140,000 annually
Senior Flight Test Engineer: $140,000 - $172,000 annually
The pay range for this position in California is $97,000/year to $172,000/ year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via MTSI's internal or external careers site.
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