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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Canvas

Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Eglin, FL · 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 ...

Astrion

Flight Test Engineer - SME

FL · On-site

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 ...

AEVEX

Flight Test Engineer 3

Tampa, FL

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 ...

AEVEX

Flight Test Engineer 3

Tampa, FL · On-site

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 ...

AEVEX

Flight Test Engineer 3

Tampa, FL · On-site

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 ...

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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 Jul 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 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 engineers with specialized skills, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large companies or defense contractors are more likely to reach this compensation level.

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.

How hard is it to become a flight test engineer?

Becoming a flight test engineer typically requires a bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering, along with experience in aircraft systems and testing. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of flight operations, and familiarity with testing protocols are essential, and obtaining certifications like the FAA's pilot or test pilot license can be beneficial. The role often involves rigorous training and safety procedures, making it a challenging but achievable career path for qualified engineers.

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 with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace or defense companies.

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 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 regulations. 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 standards.
More about Flight Test Engineer jobs
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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Canvas

Eglin, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Title: 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 application does not guarantee an interview or offer of employment. Opportunities are subject to business needs, contract requirements, funding, and customer approval.

The Flight Test Engineer provides critical systems engineering, test planning, and operational execution support to the 715 TS IDT Flight. Acting as the Lead Developmental Test Organization (LDTO) on behalf of the Air Force Test Center (AFTC), this role is responsible for the safe and effective execution of hypersonic flight test programs. The position spans junior to senior experience levels, requiring progressive responsibility in test design, range coordination, safety documentation, and post-flight data analysis.

The primary functions of this role are categorized below. Personnel at senior levels are expected to perform these duties with high autonomy and lead cross-functional teams.


Test Planning & Design: Draft, review, and finalize detailed flight test plans, Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRM), and Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMP) for hypersonic test assets.
Safety & Compliance: Generate, review, and complete all required safety documentation, including formal hazard analyses, risk assessments, and Go/No-Go checklists prior to test executions
Mission Execution: Act as a key LDTO representative during active flight tests. Coordinate with range control, program offices, and control room personnel to ensure adherence to test profiles and safety parameters.

Data Analysis: Perform post-flight analysis of telemetry and flight data to verify system performance against established requirements and aerodynamic models.

Reporting & Briefings: Author comprehensive technical test reports, engineering memos, and deficiency reports. Present test readiness briefings to senior government and military leadership.

Mentorship (Senior Levels): Provide technical leadership and guidance to junior engineering staff, ensuring the transfer of institutional knowledge regarding range operations and flight test protocols.

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