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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

The Flight Test Engineer makes sure every Icarus flight produces clean, trustworthy engineering data. You build the test cards and criteria, oversee their execution in the field, jump in on parameter ...

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Flight Test Engineer makes sure every Icarus flight produces clean, trustworthy engineering data. You build the test cards and criteria, oversee their execution in the field, jump in on parameter ...

Canvas

Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Edwards, CA · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware). * Test duties ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware). * Test duties ...

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 ...

DCS CORPORATION

AEW flight Test Engineer

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Socket.dev

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to operate within the Flight Test team. Candidate will work with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and direct ...

Zipline

Senior Flight Test Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $195K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer you will lead comprehensive flight test campaigns and integrate automated testing infrastructure into our flight test program. In this role, you will develop a deep ...

DCS Corp

AEW flight Test Engineer

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$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 ...

LTA Research

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$115K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to operate within the Flight Test team. Candidate will work with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and direct ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in California

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 18, 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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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

Anduril Industries

San Clemente, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,541 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril plays a crucial role in our mission , ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our team conducts full system level development testing, new production acceptance testing, software validation testing and much more. This position is looking for a highly motivated flight test engineer with emphasis in software/hardware capability development and evaluation for the Ghost sUAS platform. Ghost is a Group 2 autonomous vehicle specializing in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. You will be responsible for the evaluation of the software and hardware capabilities for operational suitability as well as Ghost's integration into the full suite of Anduril systems to complete complex operations.
What you'll do
  • 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).
  • Test duties include:
  • Supporting daily flight test operations and campaigns at multiple test locations. Candidate will support and plan test events in support of the product roadmap and production schedule.
  • With guidance, manage and oversee a sound configuration management plan and of test assets in preparation for multiple test campaigns.
  • Manage an inventory plan to keep all assets fully mission capable and ready for test.
  • Prepare for test readiness reviews, safety review boards, and operational test readiness. Create and disseminate test reports that create awareness for all stakeholders on system status in varying test campaigns and/or initiatives.
  • Generate and oversee the execution of test cards, pre- and post-flight briefings, and manage test events with a broad support team (pilots, engineering subject matter experts, senior FTEs, etc.).
  • Collaborate with SMEs and cross functional teams within the business line through development and production testing, reporting of test findings, and test status. This includes adjudication of testing tasks and characterization of issues, observations, and detailing results.
  • Interface daily with hardware and software engineering teams.
  • Collect metrics and report on metrics that highlight product performance, progression, and maturity.
Required Qualifications
  • Educational Background:
    • A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
    • Master's degree in a relevant field is a plus.
  • Aviation Experience:
    • 3-5 years of experience in flight testing, flight test planning, or aviation systems development.
    • Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, or aircraft systems integration is strongly preferred.
  • Flight Test Knowledge:
    • Understanding of flight test principles, including test planning, execution, and data analysis.
    • Familiarity with test card development, safety risk assessments, and test methodology.
  • Technical Aptitude:
    • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly understand new technical concepts and apply them effectively.
    • Ability to assess and mitigate technical risks during flight testing.
  • Communication Skills:
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
    • Capable of clearly documenting test plans, procedures, and results.
    • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams, including engineering, program management, and operations.
  • Regulatory Knowledge:
    • Current or ability to obtain FAA 14 CFR Part 107 certification for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
    • Knowledge of FAA regulations and National Airspace procedures, particularly as they relate to manned and unmanned aircraft operations is a plus.
  • Security Requirements:
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Work Environment Flexibility:
    • Willingness and ability to work extended hours as required.
    • Willingness and ability to conduct field testing in diverse outdoor environments, including exposure to sun, heat, and occasional rain.
    • Comfortable with hands-on work that involves physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and setting up test equipment.
    • Ability to occasionally lift and move objects weighing up to 80 lbs (e.g., drone systems) with appropriate assistance and safety measures.
    • Ability to travel for test planning, execution, and customer engagements.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong software and documentation experience; familiarity with Linux-based operating systems. Experience with GitHub, CircleCI, ssh, bash, and command line.
  • Knowledge and experience with Group 1/2 rotary systems that utilize commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) flight control systems and Ardupilot firmware.
  • Experience working DoD programs.
  • Familiarity with remote operations and ground control stations.
  • Prior experience with military or civilian flight test operations.
  • Direct experience working with UAS platforms or autonomous systems.
  • Test Pilot School experience or equivalent training is highly desirable.

US Salary Range
$112,000-$149,000 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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