1

Flight Test Engineer Intern Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

HARDWARE TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK) SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and ... Get hands-on and support hardware through production, satellite integration, and flight

We are looking for an entry level Satellite Test Engineer to help develop and execute testing to qualify new satellite designs for flight This is a fast-paced, intellectually challenging opportunity ...

Flight Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Develop, test, and deploy mission-critical flight software in C/C++. * Implement guidance ... Collaborate with hardware engineers to define system architecture and interfaces. Requirements * B.

We are looking for an entry level Satellite Test Engineer to help develop and execute testing to qualify new satellite designs for flight. This is a fast-paced, intellectually challenging opportunity ...

Flight Software Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Design, develop, and test flight software in Rust for attitude and pointing state machines, command ... Mentor engineers on the team and review designs and code to raise overall software quality * Help ...

HARDWARE TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK) At SpaceX we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and ... Design and implement test and ground support equipment to include flight hardware interfacing ...

Showing results 21-40

Flight Test Engineer Intern information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$12

$21

$33

How much do flight test engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for flight test engineer intern in Seattle, WA is $21.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer Intern job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Internship, 65% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,719 per year, or $22 per hour.

Hardware Test Engineer (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA • On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
HARDWARE TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK)
SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We design, build, test, and operate all parts of the system - thousands of satellites, consumer receivers that allow users to connect within minutes of unboxing, and the software that brings it all together. We've only begun to scratch the surface of Starlink's potential global impact. As we continue to upgrade and expand the constellation, we're looking for best-in-class engineers to join the team.
As a Hardware Test Engineer on Starlink, you'll sit at the intersection of electrical, mechanical, thermal analysis, software, and antenna engineering - ultimately ensuring that our satellite hardware can withstand the harsh environment of space and maintain communication with millions of users on a global scale. You will spearhead the development and deployment of advanced, automated electrical test systems which span an array of technical domains, such as high-speed digital communications, network and power systems integration, RF engineering, avionics, networked computing, power electronics, failure investigation, on-orbit reliability assurance, and automated testing frameworks.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Work with a cross-discipline team including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to conceptualize and develop test systems used to test and validate flight hardware
  • Define, document and present test system requirements, coverage, designs and operational strategies
  • Design and produce test assets such as test racks, electrical panels, electrical test fixtures, harnessing, connectors, PCBAs, machinery, tools, processes, etc.
  • Select commercial-off-the-shelf hardware and/or design custom PCBAs to measure signals, apply flight-like loads, and power units under test
  • Drive continual improvements to our designs by building physical and digital tools to analyze data collected both on-orbit and in production
  • Utilize software tools (Python) to interact with units under test, test equipment, instrumentation, field data, and production documentation systems
  • Get hands-on and support hardware through production, satellite integration, and flight
  • Understand all products and processes that require the systems for which they have developed and/or are responsible for.
  • Challenge assumptions and work to find simple solutions to complex problems
  • Ensure work is conducted and systems are designed/produced in compliance with appropriate safety requirements (UL, NFPA, ANSI, IEC, Etc.)

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics or other STEM discipline
  • 1+ years of experience with hardware development or electronics test engineering (internship experience is acceptable)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or similar engineering degree
  • Experience analyzing circuits and developing functional test plans
  • Thorough understanding of electrical schematics and electronics manufacturing to analyze and improve test coverage
  • Thorough understanding of electronics reliability and failure mechanisms
  • Experience designing and troubleshooting PCBAs
  • Strong understanding of computers and programming languages (Python, C/C++, TwinCAT)
  • Experience with the testing and/or characterization of RF: components, circuits, PCBAs, antennas, systems, etc.
  • Experience with test equipment and measurement techniques to verify and validate product requirements (oscilloscope, multimeter, electronic load, spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, vector signal generator, source measurement unit, etc.)
  • Thorough understanding and experience in environmental testing such as HALT/HASS, thermal, vibration and TVAC
  • Experience with PLC hardware and/or software
  • Experience with the design/deployment of functional safety systems
  • Experience working with pressure, temperature and flow measurement devices
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a highly cross-functional role
  • Exceptional organizational, teamwork, and written/verbal communication skills to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams in fast-paced, dynamic environments

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadlines
  • Some roles may require working on an "on-call" basis on a weeklong rotational schedule (On-Orbit Reliability only)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Hardware Test Engineer/Level 1: $105,000.00 - $120,000.00/per year
Hardware Test Engineer/Level II: $115,000.00 - $145,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


SpaceX logo

About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US