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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Senior Systems Engineer

Crane, IN · On-site

$104K - $142K/yr

... flight test events * Assist in the development and review of test procedures, anomaly reports, and ... engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining ...

New

BAE Systems

Eng II - HW

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$64K - $110K/yr

... by our flight-critical electronic systems. Be part of our journey where you'll be among the ... BAE Systems is seeking a Product Test Engineer for our Controls and Avionics Solutions (CAS ...

Pae

Mid-Level/Senior Level Software Engineer

Odon, IN

$122K - $161K/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

Amentum

Mid-Level/Senior Level Software Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$122K - $161K/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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All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Indiana

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 Jul 12, 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 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
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 79% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,351 per year, or $61.7 per hour.
Senior Systems Engineer

Senior Systems Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Crane, IN

$104K - $142K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services

Job description

SAIC is seeking a Systems Engineer to support the US Navy in Crane, IN.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Performs Systems Engineering tasking for AEW concept of operations formulation, requirements definition, analysis and engineering, system architecting, system analysis and design, interface and data architectures, validation and verification, systems integration, system & op. performance analysis. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide systems engineering support across the full lifecycle of the SPIN POD and MUEU programs, including requirements development, design, integration, verification, and validation
  • Develop, review, and maintain systems engineering artifacts including System Requirements Documents (SRDs), Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Concept of Operations (CONOPS), and Test & Evaluation Master Plans (TEMPs)
  • Perform requirements analysis and decomposition, tracing requirements from the system level down to subsystem and component levels using requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, Jama)
  • Support trade studies, risk assessments, and technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR)
  • Coordinate with hardware, software, and integration teams to ensure system-level compatibility and performance
  • Support integration, test, and verification activities in lab and field environments, including ground and flight test events
  • Assist in the development and review of test procedures, anomaly reports, and test reports
  • Interface with government program offices, prime contractors, and subcontractors to communicate technical status and resolve issues
  • Participate in Configuration Control Boards (CCBs) and support configuration management activities
  • Identify and track technical risks and issues, developing mitigation strategies in coordination with the program team
  • Support logistics, sustainment, and fielding activities as required
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Bachelors and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience
  • Interim secret clearance is required to start with the ability to obtain a secret clearance.  SAIC will sponsor the clearance process.
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen

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