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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Airspace Link, Inc.

Golang Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

... UTM & flight operations, organization readiness, and airspace awareness.. We give people an ... Engineers are given real ownership of what they focus on, and are responsible for tests, user ...

Ascent Aerospace

Systems Engineer

Macomb, MI · On-site

$55 - $72/hr

Ascent Aerospace - Inspiring the next generation of flight! Ascent Aerospace is a world-renowned ... Develop test plans and acceptance criteria for tools or systems of tools. * Collaborate with ...

Ascent Aerospace

Controls Project Engineer

Macomb, MI · On-site

Ascent Aerospace - Inspiring the next generation of flight! Ascent Aerospace is a world-renowned ... Be able to design, write, test, implement and document PLC and HMI software * Manage the ...

ascentaerospace

Controls Project Engineer

Macomb, MI · On-site

Ascent Aerospace - Inspiring the next generation of flight! Ascent Aerospace is a world-renowned ... Be able to design, write, test, implement and document PLC and HMI software * Manage the ...

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All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Michigan

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 Jul 14, 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 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 Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 80% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,565 per year, or $56.5 per hour.
Quality Engineer, Aftermarket (Onsite)

Quality Engineer, Aftermarket (Onsite)

Raytheon Technologies

Lansing, MI • On-site

$73K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Date Posted:
2026-05-21
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-MI-LANSING-PLANT 1 ~ 5640 Enterprise Dr ~ PLANT 1
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access certain necessary systems.
Security Clearance Type:
None/Not Required
Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power systems and has been revolutionizing modern flight for over 100 years. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
What You Will Do:
Pratt & Whitney AutoAir (Lansing, MI.) designs, manufactures, and repairs composite components, engine test equipment, and nacelles for the aerospace industry. We're looking for a professional Quality Engineer to join our team. The primary focus of this role is to ensure QMS adherence and overall product quality, while supporting daily operations of the assigned manufacturing cell staff members, which typically is made up of operators and inspectors. This is a phenomenal opportunity to enter the Aerospace industry and hone your skills while developing skills in a thriving industry.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Support your assigned manufacturing cell(s) operators and inspectors.
  • Review all applicable Technical Data (blueprints, material specifications, engineering Drawings Engine manuals) that are developed by Engineering to ensure they meet Pratt & Whitney quality requirements.
  • Assist Material Review Board and Clinic members with managing projects and inventories. This will include daily QN tasking, product review, and physical organization of non-conforming material.
  • Perform Internal Process and System Audits
  • Promote the Product Safety and Quality culture across the site through compliance to the QMS and adherence to Quality Cardinal Rules.
  • Work with Operations, Engineering, Materials, Safety, and Maintenance teams to meet deliverables and solve problems.

Qualification You Must Have:
  • Advanced degree and 3+ years of experience in Quality, Engineering or Operations experience in Manufacturing, Aerospace, Defense, Automotive or other heavily regulated industry; OR Bachelor's degree and 5+ years of relevant industry experience.

Qualifications We Prefer:
  • University degree ideally in Engineering. Mechanical or Quality Engineering preferred
  • ASQ -CQE certification a plus
  • FAA Airframes & Powerplant License
  • Knowledge of Quality Management Systems (i.e., AS9100/AS9110 or ISO 9001) and internal audit experience
  • Root Cause and Corrective Action experience (QCPC, RCCA Red-X, Fault Tree, etc.)
  • Experience with Quality Notifications/Material Review Board
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, familiarity with geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T) inspection equipment, tools and methods
  • Working knowledge of Pratt & Whitney shop practices & processes, quality standards, and inspections methods & tools
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies (CORE/ACE/SixSigma, etc.)
  • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite programs, SAP ERP, and Solumina MES
  • Ability to work and effectively communicate with all levels of management, shop personnel and customers

What is my Role Type?
In addition to transforming the future of flight, we are also transforming how and where we work. We've introduced role types to help you understand how you will operate in our blended work environment. This role is:
  • Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance workers, as they are essential to the development of our engines.

Candidates will learn more about role type and current site status throughout the recruiting process. For onsite and hybrid roles, commuting to and from the assigned site is the employee's personal responsibility.
Learn more & apply today!
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 86,800 USD - 165,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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