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Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD

$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 ...

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

DCS CORPORATION

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

DCS CORPORATION

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a ...

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

KBR, Inc.

Flight Test Engineer

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

Title: Flight Test Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in 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 ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$107.40 - $174.05/hr

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 ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD

$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 ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a ...

KBR, Inc

Flight Test Engineer

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Title: Flight Test Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, 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 ...

VLinc

Flight Test Engineer

Elizabeth City, NC · On-site

VLinc Corporation is looking for a Flight Test Engineer to support rotary-wing developmental test and evaluation. This is a hands-on role. You will plan test events, ride along as non-pilot aircrew ...

VLinc

Flight Test Engineer

Elizabeth City, NC · On-site

VLinc Corporation is looking for a Flight Test Engineer to support rotary-wing developmental test and evaluation. This is a hands-on role. You will plan test events, ride along as non-pilot aircrew ...

VLinc

Flight Test Engineer

Elizabeth City, NC · On-site

VLinc Corporation is looking for a Flight Test Engineer to support rotary-wing developmental test and evaluation. This is a hands-on role. You will plan test events, ride along as non-pilot aircrew ...

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 Engineer information

See salary details

$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test 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 is a flight test engineer?

Flight Test Engineers are specialized professionals who plan, conduct, and analyze tests on aircraft and aerospace systems to ensure they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. They collaborate with pilots, design engineers, and technicians to develop test plans, monitor test flights, and interpret data collected during these flights. Their work is crucial in identifying potential issues, validating design changes, and certifying aircraft for operational use. Flight Test Engineers often work for aircraft manufacturers, government agencies, or research organizations.

What does a flight test engineer do?

As a flight test engineer, your job is to oversee testing the operations and performance of aircraft in line with FAA regulations and guidelines from the manufacturer. This job frequently involves planning, managing, coordinating, and executing a full spectrum of aircraft testing, including tests on all mechanical and electronic systems. Some details of this job vary based on the kinds of aircraft with which you work. Flight test engineers may work with everything from single-engine civilian aircraft to large, military planes. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of a flight test engineer often requires meeting the qualifications for a security clearance, studying guides and technical manuals, contacting part manufacturers, and excellent communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight test engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Test Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, strong analytical abilities, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and simulation software—along with certifications like FAA DER or EASA equivalent—are often required. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with pilots and multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities ensure accurate data collection, safe test operations, and successful validation of aircraft performance and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by flight test engineers during the testing process?

Flight Test Engineers often encounter challenges related to balancing safety with the need to gather comprehensive data during test flights. They must coordinate closely with pilots, design teams, and regulatory bodies to ensure all test objectives are met while adhering to strict safety protocols. Weather conditions, unexpected aircraft behavior, and last-minute design changes can also impact test schedules. Effective communication, adaptability, and attention to detail are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful test outcomes.

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

AspectFlight Test EngineerFlight Test Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in aerospace or mechanical engineering; often requires FAA or EASA certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's in aerospace technology or related field; certifications may vary
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, analyzing flight tests; collaborating with engineers and pilotsAssisting with test preparations, data collection, and aircraft inspections
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace manufacturing, research, and developmentInvolved in testing and maintenance within aerospace companies and testing facilities

Flight Test Engineers focus on designing and analyzing flight tests, requiring advanced engineering skills and certifications. Flight Test Technicians support these activities through hands-on testing and data collection. Both roles are essential in aerospace testing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

How much do flight test engineers get paid?

Flight test engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace hubs or with government agencies.
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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,885 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD • On-site

DCS Corporation
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about DCS Corporationexternal

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary Range: $60,467 - $90,423

Are you ready to perform hands-on, cutting-edge work in Aviation?

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 Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers are located at the Naval Air Test Center at Naval Air Station Patuxent River Maryland. Full-time T&E positions for current and future Navy/Marine aircraft and stores are available supporting the Navy Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department at Naval Air Station, Patuxent River in beautiful St. Mary's County.

Selected candidates will participate in ongoing flight test operations and receive training and mentoring from experienced DCS and Government engineers across several areas:

  • Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures for Fixed Wing Tactical or Maritime Aircraft
  • Rotary Wing and Small Unmanned Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures
  • Aircraft Propulsion & Subsystems
  • Aircraft Ship Suitability
  • Air Vehicle Stores Compatibility and Ballistics & Weapons Employment

High performing participants may have the potential to attend the Flight Test Engineer course at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School. 

Essential Job Functions:

The Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department requires full-time engineering support to:

  • Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test and/or evaluate aircraft and aircraft related systems.
  • Review and prepare engineering and technical analyses, reports, change proposals, and other technical documentation.
  • Prepare flight cards for aircraft testing during the development and V&V phases.
  • Prepare and present flight briefings.
  • Prepare and communicate flight test objectives.
  • Develop flight test profiles.

Required Skills:

Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required.

ABET accredited BS Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeromechanical or Mechanical Engineering OR a Masters Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeromechanical or Mechanical Engineering.

Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance. 

GPA of 3.75 or higher required. 

Desired Skills: 

Fast learner and able to work in a team environment.

https://careers.dcscorp.com/pages?page=dcsbenefits

Employment Type: Full Time
DCS logo

About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

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