1

Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Title: Flight Test Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Flight Test Engineer

Beavercreek, OH · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Title: Flight Test Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Title: Flight Test Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

Test Engineer

Akron, OH · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Flight Test Operations: Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of our sub-scale airship model * HIL Simulation: Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab ...

Flight Test Operations: Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of our sub-scale airship model * HIL Simulation: Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab ...

New

Test Engineer

Akron, OH · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Flight Test Operations: Prepare for, execute, and troubleshoot weekly flight test operations of our sub-scale airship model * HIL Simulation: Conduct and troubleshoot hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) lab ...

Provide flight test engineering expertise to U.S. Air Force and Space Force customers for advanced technology development related to R&D, acquisition, development and testing of cutting-edge ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Flight Test Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$41.4K

$128.2K

$193.9K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Ohio is $128,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,300.00 and $152,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 employer. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace hubs or with government agencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Ohio are:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer jobs in Ohio?

For Flight Test Engineer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Flight Test Engineer jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Flight Test Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer jobs in OH?

For Flight Test Engineer jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $128,234 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

KBR, Inc.

Beavercreek, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

144th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
Flight Test Engineer
Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!
KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
Why Join Us?
  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

Position Summary:
KBR is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Flight Test Engineer to support work with the Air Force Research Lab's autonomous air refueling effort.
We are seeking a seasoned professional to take a senior role in our flight test operations. The right candidate will be responsible for defining test requirements, developing comprehensive test plans and procedures, and managing ground and flight test events and serve as the expert in the collection, analysis, and reporting of complex flight test data to ensure the safety, performance, and mission readiness of advanced aerospace systems.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of complex flight test programs for various aircraft platforms and systems.
  • Develop detailed flight test plans, procedures, and test cards, ensuring clear objectives, performance criteria, and safety standards.
  • Manage and oversee ground and flight test events, including range and airspace coordination.
  • Instrument test assets and manage data acquisition systems to ensure comprehensive data collection.
  • Perform in-depth analysis of flight test data to evaluate aircraft performance, handling qualities, and system functionality.
  • Prepare detailed flight test reports, documenting results, highlighting key findings, and providing actionable recommendations.
  • Evaluate vendor deliverables to ensure contract performance and compliance.
  • Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, flight operations, and program management.
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards, regulatory requirements, and program guidelines.
  • Identify potential safety risks and technical challenges, and develop mitigation strategies.
  • Participate in pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefings.
  • Potentially serve as a Test Director, responsible for the overall execution of flight and ground tests.

Work Environment:
  • Location: Onsite
  • Travel Requirements: minimal
  • Working Hours: Standard

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or a closely related STEM field.
  • Minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in flight test engineering, encompassing all phases of the test lifecycle.
  • Active Secret security clearance.
  • Demonstrated expertise in defining test requirements, developing test plans and procedures, and executing flight tests.
  • Proven ability in flight data analysis and the generation of comprehensive test reports.
  • Strong understanding of aircraft systems, avionics, flight controls, and performance analysis.
  • Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively.
  • Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Knowledge of FAA and/or military specifications and certification requirements.

Desired:
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or a closely related STEM field.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI clearance
  • 15+ years of hands-on test experience
  • Experience with aerial refueling test and evaluation.
  • Graduate of a military Experimental Test Pilot School or FAA Flight Analyst DER.
  • Experience with unmanned aircraft platforms and mission systems.
  • Familiarity with relevant military standards (e.g., MIL-HDBK-516, JSSG series).
  • Experience with temporary modification of test aircraft.
  • Experience with collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) platforms and supporting software architecture.
  • Proficiency in relevant data analysis tools and software (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW).
  • DAWIA Test and Evaluation certification.
  • Experience with mission planning and execution

Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of national defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

What KBR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


KBR logo

About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998