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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

The Structures Company

Test Mechanic (M11A)

Wichita, KS · On-site

$55/hr

Performs power on testing of wiring, control modules, flight control systems, doors, lighting ... We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support ...

Yingling Aviation Inc

Avionics Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

Familiar with and/or prepared substantiation reports including EMI/RFI, Ground/Flight Test Plans ... General understanding of mechanical engineering and assembly principles. * General understanding of ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

GNC Engineer, Principal

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$133K - $203K/yr

This role ensures program engineering needs are met by leading the design, analysis, and ... Works with the test team to perform bench testing and flight testing. * Works with management to ...

Quantum World Technologies Inc

Stress Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$52.50 - $72/hr

Stress Engineer Location: Wichita, KS Onsite/ Remote: Onsite In this role, you will be a critical ... Author and review operational flight load spectrums based on flight test data, fleet tracking ...

AeroVironment

GNC Engineer, Principal

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$133K - $203K/yr

This role ensures program engineering needs are met by leading the design, analysis, and ... Works with the test team to perform bench testing and flight testing. * Works with management to ...

SOGECLAIR

Stress Engineer - Defense

Wichita, KS

$52.50 - $72/hr

Assess primary structure, secondary structure, and flight test installations from a static strength ... You must have a Bachelor of Engineering or equivalent. * You must havea minimum of 5yearsof ...

SOGECLAIR

Stress Engineer - Defense

Wichita, KS · On-site

$52.50 - $72/hr

Assess primary structure, secondary structure, and flight test installations from a static strength ... You must have a Bachelor of Engineering or equivalent. * You must have a minimum of 5 years of ...

PDS Tech Commercial

Systems Engineer

Wichita, KS · Hybrid

$81.46 - $91.69/hr

Engineer the Future of Flight -- Systems Engineer Opportunity in Aviation Innovation PDS Tech ... Analyzing ground and flight test data to confirm system performance and functionality * Supporting ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Quality Technician III

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

... engineering drawings and specification systems * Strong computer skills and is proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Access, PowerPoint, Excel) * Must be able to fill out the necessary flight test ...

AeroVironment

Quality Technician III

Lawrence, KS

$17 - $22.75/hr

... engineering drawings and specification systems * Strong computer skills and is proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Access, PowerPoint, Excel) * Must be able to fill out the necessary flight test ...

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All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Kansas

Flight Test Engineer information

See Kansas salary details

$38.8K

$120.3K

$181.9K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Kansas is $120,297.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,100.00 and $142,700.00 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.
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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Kansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 84% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,297 per year, or $57.8 per hour.
Test Mechanic (M11A)

Test Mechanic (M11A)

The Structures Company

Wichita, KS • On-site

$55/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

JOB TITLE: Test Mechanic
LOCATION: Wichita, KS
PAY RATE: $55.00/hr

We are a national aerospace and defense staffing agency seeking highly qualified candidates for a position with a top-tier client.

Job Details:

  • Job Type: Contract (3 months with potential for extension)

  • Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation

  • Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna)

  • Perks: Bonus potential + Priority access via Tier 1 supplier

  • Openings Nationwide: Thousands of opportunities across the U.S.

Qualifying Questions:

  • Are you a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) as defined under ITAR regulations?

  • Do you meet the educational and experience requirements for this role?

  • Can you commute to the job location or relocate if necessary?

Summary: 

  • Performs power on testing of wiring, control modules, flight control systems, doors, lighting, cabin pressure, ground blocks, hydraulics, landing gear operation, external electrical power, auto flight tests, air flight data, crew oxygen, flight recording systems, battery compartment, and all pilot controls.

  • Troubleshoots test results of wiring, control modules, flight control systems, doors, lighting, cabin pressure, ground blocks, hydraulics, landing gear operation, external electrical power, auto flight tests, air flight data, crew oxygen, flight recording systems, battery compartment, and all pilot controls.

  • Performs functional testing including high interference radio frequency, integrated cooling systems, potable water, fire suppressant system, oxygen systems, hydraulic systems, accumulator gauge, moisture control system, cargo heat, cabin pressure control, insertion loss, integrated surveillance system, and pitot static system.

  • Troubleshoots test results of high interference radio frequency, integrated cooling systems, potable water, fire suppressant system, oxygen systems, hydraulic systems, accumulator gauge, moisture control system, cargo heat, cabin pressure control, insertion loss, integrated surveillance system, and pitot static system.

  • Loads all applicable software for full power on operational requirements of units.

  • Uses precision laser measurement equipment such as laser tracker to capture, translate, validate, or provide measurement data.

  • Performs complete inspection including first part review of procured or fabricated parts and assemblies.

  • Uses shop mathematics and precision measuring or test instruments to complete work assignments and functional test assemblies and components.

  • Proficient with all equipment and tools associated with installation through final functional test of software and hardware.

  • Applies knowledge of integrated avionics and complex troubleshooting for aircraft systems.

Requirements:

  • Must be a U.S. Person (as defined by ITAR).

  • 10+ years of experience in aircraft assembly, power-on testing, and complex troubleshooting of avionics and electrical systems.

  • Experience with power on testing of aircraft systems including flight controls, hydraulics, landing gear, lighting, and cabin pressure.

  • Experience troubleshooting test results for electrical, hydraulic, and flight control systems.

  • Experience performing functional testing including RF, cooling, water, fire suppressant, oxygen, hydraulic, moisture control, cargo heat, cabin pressure, and pitot static systems.

  • Experience loading software for aircraft operational requirements.

  • Experience using precision laser measurement equipment such as laser trackers for measurement validation.

  • Experience performing complete inspections including first article inspection of parts and assemblies.

  • Proficient in using shop mathematics and precision measuring instruments for functional testing.

About Us:

The Structures Company is a premier national aerospace and defense staffing agency specializing in contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire placements. We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support roles.

As trusted partners to leading aerospace and defense OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, we connect professionals with career opportunities to grow and excel in aviation, aerospace, and defense.

Eligibility Requirements:

Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)) to comply with ITAR regulations.

Keywords: aerospace, aviation, engineering, maintenance, aircraft design, defense

Take your career to new heights—apply today!

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