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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Valinor Enterprises

GNC Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

Conduct structured flight test campaigns - define test cards, instrument logging, execute in-field ... engineering experience on real flying hardware * Deep familiarity with PX4 (or comparable open ...

L3HHCM20

Sr Specialist, Systems Engineer

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Experience supporting flight test, environmental qualification, and customer verification ... Familiarity with systems engineering, requirements management, and configuration management tools.

L3HHCM20

Lead, Systems Engineering

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$127K - $236K/yr

The Lead Systems Engineer will perform the following functions : * Subject matter expert in ... Oversees design verification testing efforts including lab, chamber, ground, and flight test

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Flight Test Engineer information

See New York salary details

$47.6K

$147.6K

$223.2K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in New York is $147,568.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,400.00 and $175,000.00 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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What cities in New York are hiring for Flight Test Engineer jobs? Cities in New York with the most Flight Test Engineer job openings:
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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in New York as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $147,568 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Test Engineer (Hardware/Launch Infrastructure)

Innovative Rocket Technologies Inc.

Hauppauge, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

As iRocket advances toward frequent launches, we need a Test Engineer focused on hardware and launch infrastructure to validate subsystems, ground support equipment, integration, and launch-site readiness.

The Role

  • Lead test programs for launch-pad hardware, ground support systems (GSE), avionics integration, and vehicle subsystem checkout.
  • Develop test plans, write procedures, execute dry-runs, and perform full system validation.
  • Troubleshoot hardware anomalies, manage data acquisition and reporting, work with cross-functional teams to close issues.
  • Support launch operations: pre-launch checkouts, integrated systems tests, post-launch data reviews, and lessons learned.
  • Drive configuration management, test-to-flight traceability, and audit readiness.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or related).
  • 2+ years of test engineering experience in aerospace, launch, or hardware integration/test environment.
  • Experience with instrumentation, data acquisition systems, hardware integration, and test stand operations.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with evolving requirements and launch cadence goals.
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Wellness Resources

Apply