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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mach Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/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

Flight Test Engineering Lead

Marina, CA · On-site

$188K - $242K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer Lead to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to lead a highly talented team of flight test ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineering Lead

Marina, CA

$188K - $242K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer Lead to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to lead a highly talented team of flight test ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineering Lead

Marina, CA

$188K - $242K/yr

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer Lead to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to lead a highly talented team of flight test ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site +1

As a UAS Flight Test Engineer you will plan, execute and report on developmental and operational flight Test & Evaluation (T&E) activities. You will work alongside a team of engineers and test ...

DCS Corp

AEW flight Test Engineer

Ridgecrest, CA

$84K - $90K/yr

Salary Range: $84,137 - $90,000 Airborne Electronic Warfare (AEW) Flight Test Engineer supporting the F/A-18 & EA-18G Integrated Product Team (IPT) the incumbent will be required to support Flight ...

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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 Jun 13, 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers, including experienced Flight Test Engineers working in the aerospace industry, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, and extensive experience. High-level engineering roles in specialized fields such as defense, space exploration, or executive positions tend to have the highest compensation, often requiring advanced certifications and significant expertise.

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 industry sector. Senior engineers or those working for major aerospace companies may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires specialized skills in aeronautics and testing procedures.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace or flight test engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like defense or commercial aviation. These roles often require advanced degrees, leadership responsibilities, and work in complex testing environments.

What are Flight Test Engineers?

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 do flight test engineers do?

Flight test engineers design, plan, and oversee testing of aircraft and aerospace systems to evaluate performance, safety, and compliance with specifications. They analyze test data, troubleshoot issues, and work closely with pilots, engineers, and manufacturers using specialized tools and instrumentation. Their work often involves testing in controlled environments and requires knowledge of aerodynamics, systems integration, and safety protocols.
More about Flight Test Engineer jobs
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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $133,118 per year, or $64 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

Mach Industries

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About Mach Industries
Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.
Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.
The Role
Mach develops UAS platforms in various stages of flight test development. 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 on generating and executing test plans. Responsibilities will include the development of test CONOP planning, procedures, test reviews, safety analysis, test preparations, and post-flight test reviews. Testing is conducted on private and DoD ranges, and will require out-of-state and possibly OCONUS travel on occasion. This person will be in a prime position to help build the future flight team as products and operations scale over the next year.
Key Responsibilities
  • Central coordination for flight test operations.
  • Inform the engineering team on key requirements for systems checks, data systems etc.
  • Be a driving force in building out test infrastructure at primary test sites and outfitting test equipment, GCS etc.
  • Conduct/lead team through testing workflow, including test planning preparations, readiness reviews, dry runs, day of test, and post-test reviews.
  • Keep the product development team informed of all requirements.
  • Help construct program flight test campaigns with system, GNC, and energetics engineers.
  • Coordinating and planning of flight test demos.
  • Technical advisor on test operations.
  • Perform safety analysis and maintain company safety policies.

Required Qualifications
  • Engineering degree required unless significant relevant experience can be demonstrated.
  • Minimum of 5 years in related aerospace with preferably UAS flight test engineering.
  • Multi-talented across overall test ops, understanding of flight test development campaigns and helping to lead the engineering team on requirements.
  • Self led and passionate about responsibility to be a key contributor in building flight test capability.
  • Willing to be in the field regularly for 1-3 days.
  • Willing to travel to various test ranges.
  • Good written communication to write briefs, test reports, and formalize test forms/ processes.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with mission planner and other GCS software is a plus.
  • Willingness to travel internationally.
  • Holds private pilot license or part 107.
  • Private pilot, R/C aircraft nut, loves anything to do with aviation.
  • Good candor in high-pressure situations.
  • Highly organized and good with data collection and storage.
  • Not phased by being in the field somewhat regularly.

Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

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