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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... flight projects. The resource will work in an agile environment to write and execute use cases ... Experience using Azure DevOps Testing Module. * Experience with Mobile App testing of iOS and ...

... tests * Lead efforts with suppliers and manufacturing shops to source flight components, custom tooling, piece-parts, and sub-assemblies * Perform other duties as assigned MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS * Must ...

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Flight Test Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$37.9K

$117.6K

$177.8K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Michigan is $117,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $139,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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What cities in Michigan are hiring for Flight Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Flight Test Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer jobs in MI? For Flight Test Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,565 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Engineering Technician - Hydraulic Test Lab Tech

Parker

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Parker Hannifin rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 358 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Parker Hannifin

At Parker Aerospace, we develop technologies and innovative solutions that enable reliable, efficient and increasingly sustainable flight for the lifecycle of the aircraft, including aftermarket support. Our passionate people with deep engineering expertise, together with our breadth of differentiated technologies, ensure that we make the extraordinary happen and continue to shape the future of aviation in partnership with our customers.

As a member of our team, you are instrumental in fulfilling our mission: 'Enabling Engineering Breakthroughs that Lead to a Better Tomorrow.' Pursuing a career at Parker presents unlimited opportunities for both professional and personal development. Working with some of the most brilliant minds in the industry, your contributions will be pivotal in developing innovative technologies and products, significantly contributing to Parker's goal of addressing the world's most pressing engineering challenges. At Parker, our team members belong, matter and make a difference. 

Position Summary                

Parker Hydraulic Systems Division is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Hydraulics Technician to perform development, qualification and production level testing of aerospace hydraulic components including pumps, hydraulic motors, electric motors, pump-motor packages, reservoirs, accumulators, actuators, filter modules, valves, and other hydraulic components.

Essential Functions

  • Build hydraulic test setups according to hydraulic schematics provided by Engineering.
  • Ensure proper measuring sensors are used in the test setups and meet all calibration requirements.
  • Conduct hydraulic tests according to written Engineering Test Procedures.
  • Collect all test data and be able to perform basic-level data analysis.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to the hydraulic test system including drive motors, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
  • Collaborate with Test Engineers, Project Engineers and Management relative to test schedules and technical obstacles.
  • Collaborate with electronic, mechanical and other hydraulic technicians to support system-level diagnostics and repairs.
  • Perform basic preventive maintenance on Test Lab equipment.
  • Document all testing and maintenance activities, test results, and daily logs accurately.
  • Maintain compliance with safety protocols, 5S standards, electrical codes and standard operating procedures.
  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS) preferred, BS Aviation Maintenance, BS Mechanical Engineering, or BS Industrial Engineering a plus.
  • Equivalent military training, hydraulic or electric motor test experience accepted.
  • Ability to read and work from Test Procedures, Hydraulic Schematics, and engineering drawings.
  • Operational experience with various types of standard lab instrumentation and data acquisition systems used for collecting Pressure, Flow, RPM, Force, Torque, Current, Voltage, and Temperature data.
  • Experience performing setup, test, repair, disassembly, and assembly of aircraft and industrial hydraulic pumps, motors, actuators and hydraulic systems products. 
  • Must be able to conduct a wide variety of Engineering tests, collect test data, and assist in failure investigations with high customer visibility and strict test schedules.
  • Ability to write brief technical reports, e-mails, and other technical communications.
  • Experienced in MS Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
  • Ability to work in a LabVIEW environment as a user.
  • Programming experience including LabVIEW sequencers.
  • A working knowledge of basic electronics.
  • Some machining experience.
  • Experience in the operation, setup and repair of industrial pumping systems.

  • Knowledge of AC and DC motor theory.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS) preferred, BS Aviation Maintenance, BS Mechanical Engineering, or BS Industrial Engineering a plus.
  • Equivalent military training, hydraulic or electric motor test experience accepted.
  • Ability to read and work from Test Procedures, Hydraulic Schematics, and engineering drawings.
  • Operational experience with various types of standard lab instrumentation and data acquisition systems used for collecting Pressure, Flow, RPM, Force, Torque, Current, Voltage, and Temperature data.
  • Experience performing setup, test, repair, disassembly, and assembly of aircraft and industrial hydraulic pumps, motors, actuators and hydraulic systems products. 
  • Must be able to conduct a wide variety of Engineering tests, collect test data, and assist in failure investigations with high customer visibility and strict test schedules.
  • Ability to write brief technical reports, e-mails, and other technical communications.
  • Experienced in MS Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint.
  • Ability to work in a LabVIEW environment as a user.
  • Programming experience including LabVIEW sequencers.

Preferred:

  • A working knowledge of basic electronics.
  • Some machining experience.
  • Experience in the operation, setup and repair of industrial pumping systems.
  • Knowledge of AC and DC motor theory.

Attributes

Additional qualities include a "can do" attitude and an individual that can work multiple tasks simultaneously. The individual must be a motivated self-starter with a willingness to do "whatever it takes" to complete the assigned task.  This individual must be willing to accept responsibility to meet accelerated project schedules and stringent test requirements.

We offer a comprehensive and competitive total compensation package. 

Come join the Parker Aerospace Team! We are proud to offer competitive compensation, including participation in annual incentive programs, and benefits designed with health, wealth, and well-being in mind. Our competitive package includes:

Benefit & Retirement Plans 

Parker offers competitive benefit programs, including:

  • Comprehensive coverage for medical, prescription drugs, dental, vision, voluntary optional life, accident insurance, hospital indemnity insurance and critical illness insurance with competitive premium cost. 
  • 401(k) Plan with company matching contributions at 100% of the first 5% of pay
  • Company provided defined-contribution retirement plan with annual contribution equal to 3% of pay
  • Career development and tuition reimbursement
  • Other benefits including paid parental leave, short and long-term disability programs, adoption assistance, a Care.com membership and financial planning assistance are provided at no cost to you.
  • Supplemental benefit programs including identity protection, legal protection, and pet wellness are available at competitive rates.
  • Paid Time Off and up to 15 Company-Paid Holidays.
  • Business Resource Groups promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Engagement activities celebrated throughout the year. Examples include Internal Career Day, FYE Celebration, anniversary recognition events, employee appreciation week, veteran appreciation, and more! 
  • The Parker Foundation provides access to donation matching, disaster relief, charitable organization funding, and paid volunteer hours. 
  • Employee discounts on various services (car purchases, computer purchases, life adventures, etc.).
  • Employee Referral program - Refer a family member or friend and receive a generous award for referrals that are hired (up to 4,000).
  • Dress for Your Day policy, offering flexible work attire options.
  • A free, on-site, 24-hour Fitness Center available to all active Team Members.
  • Grab a bite to eat at the on-site cafeteria that provides a wide array of breakfast, lunch, and snacks. We also have vending machines available during scheduled breaks and lunch periods. 

Parker Purpose Opportunities (Social Responsibility):

Additional Benefits:

Drug-Free Workplace
In accordance with Parker's policies and applicable state laws, Parker provides for a drug-free workplace. Therefore, all applicants seeking employment with Parker will be subject to drug testing as a condition of employment.

This position is subject to meeting U.S. export compliance and/or U.S Government contracting citizenship eligibility requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Parker is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Parker is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job related reasons regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.  However, U.S. Citizenship, Permanent Residency or other appropriate status is required for certain positions, in accord with U.S. import & export regulations.
("Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran / VEVRAA Federal Contractor")

If you would like more information about Equal Employment Opportunity as an applicant under the law, please go to Employees & Job Applicants | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Employment Type: Regular

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