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Flight Test Engineer 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

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

$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

$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 information

See California salary details

$42.9K

$133.1K

$201.3K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in California is $133,118.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,100.00 and $157,900.00 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.
More about Flight Test Engineer jobs

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

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

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

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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,118 per year, or $64 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 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):
  • 9/80 schedule
  • 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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