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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Overview FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - SME LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret CERTIFICATION: TRAVEL: as needed Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER ...

Job Overview This is a Flight Test Engineer (FTE) position for UAS development testing and designing of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), aviation electronic systems, and loitering munitions. The ...

Job Overview This is a Flight Test Engineer (FTE) position for UAS development testing and designing of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), aviation electronic systems, and loitering munitions. The ...

Job Overview This is a Flight Test Engineer (FTE) position for UAS development testing and designing of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), aviation electronic systems, and loitering munitions. The ...

In this role, you will be supporting the successful completion of flight test events, platform ... Test Systems design experience and collaborating across multiple engineering disciplines, such as ...

In this role, you will be supporting the successful completion of flight test events, platform ... Test Systems design experience and collaborating across multiple engineering disciplines, such as ...

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Flight Test Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$32.5K

$100.8K

$152.4K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Florida is $100,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $119,600.00 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Flight Test Engineer jobs?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,798 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

How you will contribute to our National Security and Defense Mission: As a Junior Flight Test Engineer for MTSI, you will be at the center of cutting-edge development for USSOCOM's fixed wing capabilities. You will directly support the USSOCOM Det 1 commander and the USSOCOM PEO-FW Materiel Leaders, leading high-visibility test missions that accelerate advanced technologies into the hands of the operational warfighters. From planning complex flight test events to executing missions aboard AFSOC aircraft, you will shape the systems that define the future of special operations.

These duties will require you to acquire technical knowledge of all key AFSOC stand-off precision guided munitions and fixed wing aircraft systems and software. This position will be in the Eglin AFB, FL area. You will be a great fit for this role if: You have a passion for aerospace, defense, special operations, and advanced technologies.

You understand the urgent need to modernize our defense systems and give our warfighters the best possible tools. Paying attention to detail and providing excellent customer service in a professional environment is a skill you excel at. You are passionate about continuous learning and growth, and you seek opportunities to challenge yourself.

You are driving to make a meaningful impact through your work. Responsibilities: Your essential job functions will include but may not be limited to: Core Technical Support: Provide flight test engineering support for USSOCOM weapon system development. Support development of missiondriven test objectives, plans, and documentation that guide successful execution.

Apply technical knowledge to evaluate system readiness and advise senior government leaders. Mission Planning & Execution: Participate in detailed flight test event planning. Support mission execution schedules aligned with program timelines.

Serve as test conductor for both flight and ground events, executing live missions aboard AFSOC aircraft and in DoD control rooms across the country. Integration & Coordination: Coordinate test venues, assets, and participants across the DoD enterprise. Manage logistics for complex test events and support operations with contract maintenance teams.

Facilitate safety processes and aircraft modification requirements. Data, Analysis & Instrumentation: Work with analysts, instrumentation engineers, and vendors to define data needs. Oversee data management plans, ensuring robust collection, analysis, and distribution methods.

Reporting & Communication: Deliver clear, concise, and timely reports that capture results and recommended followon actions. Communicate test status, risks, and readiness assessments to senior government leaders and program stakeholders to support informed decisionmaking. Ability to communicate and collaborate across multiple disciplines; engineering, program management, and aircrew Maintain accurate documentation that enable effective crossteam collaboration.

Qualifications: 0-2 years in test and evaluation, aerospace duties, and/or related technical work Ability to obtain and maintain FAA Class 3 flight physical Proficiency with Microsoft Office products Ability to work well in a team environment as well as independently Excellent written and oral communication skills Working knowledge of Air Force test and evaluation policies Active Secret Clearance Education: Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or science Even Better if you have these desired skills: Master of Science degree in engineering or science Test Pilot School graduate (USAF/USN/NTPS) Demonstrated planning, coordination and execution skills on AFSOC or similar aircraft platforms Knowledge of installed systems/subsystems and support equipment of AFSOC aircraft Knowledge of AFSOC avionics/mission systems, munitions systems and comm/radar systems DoD acquisition experience Clearance Requirements: Must possess an active DoD Secret Clearance. A Top Secret (TS) security clearance (with SCI and SAP eligibility) is HIGHLY desired. #LI-BH1 #mtsi #mtsijobs.