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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Garmin Ltd.

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Salem, OR · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Overview We are seeking a full-time Senior Flight Test Engineer for Garmin's Salem, OR location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of complex ...

Garmin Ltd.

Flight Test Pilot 3

Salem, OR · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Demonstrates proficient use of advanced engineering and flight test tools including performing ... advanced troubleshooting on complex avionics system installations * Demonstrates solid and ...

Garmin Ltd.

Senior Flight Test Pilot

Salem, OR · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Demonstrates proficient use of advanced engineering and flight test tools including performing ... advanced troubleshooting on complex avionics system installations * Demonstrates solid and ...

Merlin Labs

Staff Engineer, Core Flight Controls

OR · On-site +1

$200K - $265K/yr

... flight test facilities, including Kerikeri, New Zealand; Quonset Point, Rhode Island; and soon ... You are an experienced flight controls engineer passionate about autonomous flight who wants to ...

Merlin Labs

Staff Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$165K - $215K/yr

You are a very experienced systems engineer involved in systems integration, requirements ... You've worked in an experimental R&D flight test environment with general civil certified or ...

AeroVironment

Electrical Engineer, Sr.

Wasco, OR

$111K - $170K/yr

Supports Flight Test operations, as needed * Troubleshoots complex systems. Documents designs with engineering drawings and written descriptions. Operates computer-assisted engineering and design ...

Merlin Labs

Autonomy Software Engineer

OR · On-site +1

$130K - $175K/yr

Contribute to simulation, integration, and flight test activities to validate autonomy software in ... Degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, robotics, or a related field. * BS and 3+ or MS ...

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Flight Test Engineer information

See Oregon salary details

$46K

$142.6K

$215.7K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Oregon is $142,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $169,200.00 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.
More about Flight Test Engineer jobs

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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,611 per year, or $68.6 per hour.

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Garmin International, Inc.

Salem, OR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time Senior Flight Test Engineer for Garmin's Salem, OR location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of complex flight-testing activities including drafting and executing ground and flight test plans, conducting real time data analysis and making real time modification to test parameters for complex test programs. In addition, this role may act as Test Director or Flight Test Lead for complex projects.
Essential Functions
  • Drafts ground and flight test plans and reports for complex test programs including programs with tests not previously conducted
  • Coordinates and executes complex flight tests as part of a flight test crew, including acting as a test director
  • Defines, documents, and maintains complex test aircraft and equipment configurations including multiple test aircraft programs, and coordinates with engineering teams
  • Operates flight test tools, conducts real time data analysis, and makes real time modifications to test parameters
  • Proposes unique viable solutions to issues identified during flight test
  • Prepares complex avionics system installation data for test aircraft
  • Works with certification authorities to resolve certification issues
  • Revises or authors new procedures and makes significant safety contributions
  • Provides reliable solutions to a wide range of difficult problems using sound problem solving techniques
  • Serves as a mentor to less experienced flight test engineers (Flight Test Engineer 1 & 2)

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Aerospace Engineering AND a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
  • Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
  • Demonstrates proficient use of advanced engineering and flight test tools including performing advanced troubleshooting on complex avionics system installations
  • Demonstrates solid and proficient understanding of certification process and associated regulations
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills

Desired Qualifications
  • A flight test backgroud within an aviation or aerospace environment
  • Experience with revision control tools, audio/video recording tools, or database tools
  • Previous experience using aviation products
  • Pilot or aircraft maintenance certification

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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