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Flight Test Engineer Intern 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 Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Skyryse

Flight Test Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - CAMARILLO, CA We are advancing flight control and automation technology through rigorous and continuous flight testing. In this role, you'll design and refine detailed test ...

Skyryse

Flight Test Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - CAMARILLO, CA We are advancing flight control and automation technology through rigorous and continuous flight testing. In this role, you'll design and refine detailed test ...

Visa Hunt

Flight Test Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$159.80 - $235/hr

About the Role We are seeking a highly motivated Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, and analyze flight tests for our next-generation delivery aircraft. In this role, you will turn engineering ...

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 aircraft. You will report directly to the head of flight ops and work with system engineering leads ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of the ...

Slope

Flight Test Engineer

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$112 - $149/hr

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)

Next Matter

Flight Test Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Flight Test Engineer As a Flight Test Engineer at Castelion, you will be working within the Test Operations and Logistics team to execute a rapid iterative development and test campaign. You will ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, CA

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

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Flight Test Engineer Intern information

What does a flight test engineer intern do?

A Flight Test Engineer Intern assists in planning, executing, and analyzing flight tests for aircraft or aerospace systems. Their responsibilities often include preparing test plans, monitoring test flights, collecting data, and supporting senior engineers in evaluating aircraft performance and safety. Interns gain hands-on experience with test procedures, instrumentation, and regulatory compliance, contributing to the development and certification of new aviation products.

What types of projects and hands-on experiences can I expect as a flight test engineer intern?

As a Flight Test Engineer Intern, you’ll typically work on a mix of pre-flight preparations, data collection during test flights, and post-flight analysis. You may assist with instrumentation setup, monitor real-time data, and help troubleshoot technical issues alongside experienced engineers and pilots. Interns often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including aerodynamics, avionics, and safety specialists, giving you an excellent opportunity to understand the broader context of flight testing. These experiences are invaluable for building foundational skills, gaining insight into industry-standard procedures, and networking for future career opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Flight Test Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of aerospace engineering fundamentals, data analysis, and avionics, typically supported by progress toward a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with aircraft instrumentation, MATLAB, LabVIEW, and data acquisition systems is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish successful interns in this field. These skills are vital for ensuring accurate test results, maintaining safety standards, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams during complex flight test operations.

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

AspectFlight Test Engineer InternFlight Test Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of aerospace or related engineering programBachelor's or master's degree in aerospace engineering or related field, with relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often supervised, in aerospace testing facilities or on test flightsFull-time professional role, involved in planning, executing, and analyzing flight tests
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by aerospace companies, government agencies, or defense contractorsFull-time positions in aerospace, defense, or aviation industries

The main difference between a Flight Test Engineer Intern and a Flight Test Engineer is experience level and responsibility. Interns are typically students or recent graduates gaining hands-on experience, while engineers are full-time professionals responsible for planning and executing flight tests. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward a career as a Flight Test Engineer.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer Intern jobs in California?

For Flight Test Engineer Intern jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flight Test Engineer Intern jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Test Engineer Intern jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Flight Test Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Flight Test Engineer Intern job openings:

Flight Test Engineer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Internship, 68% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA • On-site

Stratolaunch
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Stratolaunchexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
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 Test Conductor, or other lead position, during flight test and air-launch test missions. You will have an active leadership role in developing test plans and schedules, mission procedure documentation, and compliance with approved launch license procedures. You should possess considerable experience in conducting and leading disciplined, effective developmental flight test, or similar experience in a technically demanding environment. You must establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues on a small, agile design-to-flight team. You will be challenged with bringing unique and complex aircraft from initial flight to operational use, at a company that believes in giving our team members the authority and responsibility to succeed.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead the mission control room team as a Test Conductor, or similar operational role, during experimental flight test of the Roc carrier aircraft and/or the Talon hypersonic vehicle testbeds.
  • Lead the Mission Operations team assigned to a flight or series of flight as the main liaison to program management personnel.
  • Responsible for safe and effective conduct of ground and flight test missions, and engineering support from the mission control room.
  • Develop depth of engineering and system knowledge to enable rapid decision-making and task prioritization.
  • Lead test or flight readiness reviews prior to test plan execution.
  • Coordinate range, airspace, and support resources in support of flight test missions.
  • Develop and document procedures for expanded mission control room operations, to support air-launch test missions with multiple aircraft and separate control elements. Develop and document procedures covering all aspects of test mission execution for the integrated launch system.
  • Support development of test strategy and objectives, test plans and mission cards for ground and inflight testing and identify test hazards and develop mitigation actions.
  • Coordinate closely with vehicle engineering teams to define test and data requirements and help identify system safety or operational concerns.
  • Manage and communicate test-specific vehicle limitations and flight readiness review actions.
  • Coordinate on-vehicle test requirements with overall manufacturing and program schedules.
  • Mentor less experienced personnel in proper flight test planning and execution.
  • Assess readiness of mission control room discipline engineers and support functions.
  • Travel, as needed, to support mission planning, launch approval meetings, and other tasks.
  • Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and initiative to fulfill commitments.

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
REQUIRED:
  • Technical aerospace experience, including training in a technical discipline.
  • Ability to analyze and prioritize tasks on their own initiative, and drive projects to completion, to fit within overall business goals.
  • Ability to lead a small team, make decisions, communicate requirements, and quickly adapt to changing priorities.
  • Previous experience with new, experimental, or modified aircraft, launch vehicles or spacecraft, technical and safety review boards, and configuration control methods.
  • Experience with engineering and test data analysis tools such as IADS and MATLAB.
  • Knowledge of risk management or safety management systems.
  • Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience leading flight test programs.
  • Be able to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel periodically.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance.

HIGHLY DESIRED:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, or similar technical foundation
  • Flight Test Engineer graduate of a recognized test pilot school long course
  • Experience as a Test Conductor for a developmental test program
  • Experience as a Flight Test Engineer or control room engineer on an active test program
  • Experience with launch vehicle or aircraft requirements verification
  • Experience with launch vehicle, air-launch, or high-speed flight programs
  • Experience with government flight test organizations, ranges, and procedures
  • Experience operating in a classified work environment or with classified hardware

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Level II ($101-000-$146,500): Bachelor's degree or higher from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Sr. Level ($120,000-$158,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Staff Level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
  • This position is located in Mojave, CA.
  • Travel estimated to be approximately 5%
  • #LI-Onsite

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You're within a half day's drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state's best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke's in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won't find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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