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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Work closely with engineers, testers, and program managers to capture technical details and ... flight test cadence and development to include manipulating graphics, charts, diagrams, etc. to be ...

Our expertise in engineering innovation and semiconductor technologies allows us to deliver mission ... flight test cadence and development to include manipulating graphics, charts, diagrams, etc. to be ...

Administrative Assistant III

Crane, IN · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

... flight test operations. The individual will be located at the customer site and serve as the ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

Mid-Level/Senior Level Software Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$122.70K - $161.80K/yr

The Mid-Level Software Engineer will contribute to the development of hardware and software ... Support development of Fleet OTPS and flight line operational verification test systems

Mid-Level/Senior Level Software Engineer

Odon, IN

$122.70K - $161.80K/yr

The Mid-Level Software Engineer will contribute to the development of hardware and software ... Support development of Fleet OTPS and flight line operational verification test systems

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Showing results 1-20

Flight Test Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$41.4K

$128.4K

$194.1K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Indiana is $128,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,400.00 and $152,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 role ensures aircraft meet regulatory standards before commercial or military deployment.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer jobs in Indiana? For Flight Test Engineer jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Flight Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Flight Test Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer jobs in IN? For Flight Test Engineer jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 65% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,351 per year, or $61.7 per hour.
Modeling and Simulation Engineer (Multi Domain Physics)

Modeling and Simulation Engineer (Multi Domain Physics)

Vertex Aerospace

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

The Modeling and Simulation Engineer (Multi-Domain Physics) will develop actuator models and system-level integrations to support aerospace research and product development. This role focuses on creating and validating mathematical models and multi-body dynamic simulations using MATLAB, Simulink, and Simscape to analyze the performance of thermal fluid systems, pneumatic actuators, and electro-mechanical mechanisms. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams, guide global modeling initiatives, and provide technical leadership to advance model-based engineering practices.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop multi-domain physics-based plant models and multi-body dynamic simulations for aerospace systems, including actuators, thermal fluid systems, and dynamic mechanical systems.
  • Validate models using experimental lab data, application testing, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) setups.
  • Support controls integration with system-level simulations for closed-loop performance verification and stability analysis.
  • Analyze actuator-structure interactions, load transmission, and transient responses using multi-domain coupling techniques.
  • Refine and update models based on experimental results to improve predictive accuracy and reliability.
  • Collaborate with global teams and product teams to define modeling objectives, assumptions, and expected results while ensuring the technical quality of model deliverables.
  • Document analysis processes and produce traceable verification artifacts, including interface control documents and verification matrices.
  • Mentor junior engineers, support global modeling efforts, and champion best practices for modeling and simulation workflows.

Required Skills:

  • Minimum of six (6) years of relevant professional experience, including hands-on work in modeling mechanical, thermal fluid, pneumatic, and actuator systems.
  • Expertise in MATLAB, Simulink, and Simscape (including Simscape Fluids) for modeling mechanical, thermal fluid, pneumatic, and actuator systems.
  • Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools for dynamic systems and thermal-fluid systems.
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testbeds, real-time model deployment, and system testing.
  • Ability to implement systems engineering principles for simulation activities, including multidisciplinary system coupling and actuator integration.
  • Strong technical data analysis, model refinement, and verification skills using experimental and flight test data.
  • Excellent cross-functional communication and teamwork abilities, including mentoring, technical oversight, and delivering traceable verification artifacts.         
  • Familiarity with aerospace and defense standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810/DO-254).
  • US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a secret clearance.

Desired Skills:

  • Ten (10) years or more of relevant professional experience, including hands-on work in modeling mechanical, thermal fluid, pneumatic, and actuator systems.
  • Knowledge of Simulation Process Data Management (SPDM) tools.
  • Experience with advanced modeling software such as Siemens Amesim.
  • Hands-on experience with multi-body dynamics and actuator-structure interaction assessments.
  • Exposure to CAD/FEA workflows, thermal-stress analyses, and experimental testing.

Education Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited institution.
  • Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or a related discipline strongly preferred but not required.

Benefits include the following: 

  • Healthcare coverage
  • Retirement plan
  • Life insurance, AD&D, and disability benefits
  • Wellness programs
  • Paid time off, including holidays
  • Learning and Development resources
  • Employee assistance resources

Pay and benefits are subject to change at any time and may be modified at the discretion of the company, consistent with the terms of any applicable compensation or benefit plans.