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Flight Test Control Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to ... As a Flight Test Engineer you will partner with the Ghost engineering to be responsible for test ...

... control systems to the warfighter. Our MDA analysts and engineers work in modern, well-appointed ... Duties of a Flight Test Engineer may include: * Serve as an Assistant Test Resource Manager ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

... control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to ... As a Flight Test Engineer you will partner with the Ghost engineering to be responsible for test ...

Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA ยท 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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

As Flight Test Engineer at MORSE, you are a critical member of the team taking vehicles from ... Experience with testing UAS Swarming or multi-vehicle control MORSE Corp's salary range for this ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท 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 ...

The Senior Flight Test Engineer acts as a primary technical authority during test planning and ... Coordinate across engineering disciplines to ensure system readiness and configuration control

Our MDA analysts and engineers work in modern, well-appointed government facilities in Huntsville ... command/control systems. Duties of a Flight Test Execution Support may include: * Assist in ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท 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 ...

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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 22, 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:
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

Anduril Industries

San Clemente, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril plays a crucial role in our mission , ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our team conducts full system level development testing, new production acceptance testing, software validation testing and much more. This position is looking for a highly motivated flight test engineer with emphasis in software/hardware capability development and evaluation for the Ghost sUAS platform. Ghost is a Group 2 autonomous vehicle specializing in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. You will be responsible for the evaluation of the software and hardware capabilities for operational suitability as well as Ghost's integration into the full suite of Anduril systems to complete complex operations.
What you'll do
  • As a Flight Test Engineer you will partner with the Ghost engineering to be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware).
  • Test duties include:
  • Supporting daily flight test operations and campaigns at multiple test locations. Candidate will support and plan test events in support of the product roadmap and production schedule.
  • With guidance, manage and oversee a sound configuration management plan and of test assets in preparation for multiple test campaigns.
  • Manage an inventory plan to keep all assets fully mission capable and ready for test.
  • Prepare for test readiness reviews, safety review boards, and operational test readiness. Create and disseminate test reports that create awareness for all stakeholders on system status in varying test campaigns and/or initiatives.
  • Generate and oversee the execution of test cards, pre- and post-flight briefings, and manage test events with a broad support team (pilots, engineering subject matter experts, senior FTEs, etc.).
  • Collaborate with SMEs and cross functional teams within the business line through development and production testing, reporting of test findings, and test status. This includes adjudication of testing tasks and characterization of issues, observations, and detailing results.
  • Interface daily with hardware and software engineering teams.
  • Collect metrics and report on metrics that highlight product performance, progression, and maturity.
Required Qualifications
  • Educational Background:
    • A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
    • Master's degree in a relevant field is a plus.
  • Aviation Experience:
    • 3-5 years of experience in flight testing, flight test planning, or aviation systems development.
    • Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, or aircraft systems integration is strongly preferred.
  • Flight Test Knowledge:
    • Understanding of flight test principles, including test planning, execution, and data analysis.
    • Familiarity with test card development, safety risk assessments, and test methodology.
  • Technical Aptitude:
    • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly understand new technical concepts and apply them effectively.
    • Ability to assess and mitigate technical risks during flight testing.
  • Communication Skills:
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
    • Capable of clearly documenting test plans, procedures, and results.
    • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams, including engineering, program management, and operations.
  • Regulatory Knowledge:
    • Current or ability to obtain FAA 14 CFR Part 107 certification for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
    • Knowledge of FAA regulations and National Airspace procedures, particularly as they relate to manned and unmanned aircraft operations is a plus.
  • Security Requirements:
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Work Environment Flexibility:
    • Willingness and ability to work extended hours as required.
    • Willingness and ability to conduct field testing in diverse outdoor environments, including exposure to sun, heat, and occasional rain.
    • Comfortable with hands-on work that involves physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and setting up test equipment.
    • Ability to occasionally lift and move objects weighing up to 80 lbs (e.g., drone systems) with appropriate assistance and safety measures.
    • Ability to travel for test planning, execution, and customer engagements.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong software and documentation experience; familiarity with Linux-based operating systems. Experience with GitHub, CircleCI, ssh, bash, and command line.
  • Knowledge and experience with Group 1/2 rotary systems that utilize commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) flight control systems and Ardupilot firmware.
  • Experience working DoD programs.
  • Familiarity with remote operations and ground control stations.
  • Prior experience with military or civilian flight test operations.
  • Direct experience working with UAS platforms or autonomous systems.
  • Test Pilot School experience or equivalent training is highly desirable.

US Salary Range
$112,000-$149,000 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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