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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Garmin

Flight Test Pilot

Salem, OR

... with engineering teams Analyzes data to assist with development of systems, determines compliance with requirements, and provides certification data Addresses issues with test aircraft and ...

Overwatch Imaging

Systems and Test Analyst

Hood River, OR · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Work closely with engineers to refine system design based on flight and sensor test results. * Provide constructive feedback to product and engineering teams about recurring operational challenges.

Experis

Hardware Test Engineering Lead

Portland, OR · On-site

Role: Hardware Test Engineering Lead Work location: Portland, OR Background and Meet and Greet ... Experience with IFE (in-flight entertainment) or aerospace hardware testing * Familiarity with ...

Merlin Labs

Staff Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$166K/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 ...

Merlin Labs

Staff Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$166K/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 ...

Merlin Labs

OR

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 1+ or MS ...

Merlin Labs

OR

... develop engineers who can own integration problems independently. * Drive root cause analysis and corrective action when system-level issues surface in test or flight, and ensure lessons are ...

Merlin Labs

OR · On-site

... develop engineers who can own integration problems independently. * Drive root cause analysis and corrective action when system-level issues surface in test or flight, and ensure lessons are ...

Merlin Labs

OR

You are an experienced engineer with a background in autonomous systems, aviation, and robotics who ... Support simulation, integration, and flight test activities to validate real-world performance.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Oregon

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 Jul 28, 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 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Oregon are:
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What cities in Oregon are hiring for Flight Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Flight Test Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer jobs in OR? For Flight Test Engineer jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,611 per year, or $68.6 per hour.
Flight Test Pilot

Flight Test Pilot

Garmin

Salem, OR

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Overview We are seeking a full-time Flight Test Pilot 3 at Garmin's Salem, OR location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in the performance of flight test pilot activities including developing ground and flight test plans for complex projects, acting as Pilot in Command during execution of flight tests, authoring certification plans or project‐level documentation for flight manuals, effectively representing the end user, and working with certification authorities to resolve certification issues. Essential Functions Acts as Pilot in Command for experimental aircraft with moderately significant changes to certified design and conducts complex, moderate‐risk tests May act as Flight Test Project Lead for moderately complex projects Drafts ground/flight test plans for complex test programs including programs with tests not previously conducted Defines operational characteristics for the system under development/test and effectively represents end user of individual products Understands and is able to maintain moderately complex test aircraft configurations and coordinates with engineering teams Analyzes data to assist with development of systems, determines compliance with requirements, and provides certification data Addresses issues with test aircraft and installations including advanced troubleshooting and provides support to aircraft maintenance Identifies/tracks issues during flight test, offers quality solutions, and verifies resolution for moderately complex projects Leverages thorough understanding of aircraft certification process and associated regulations to author certification plans or content for complex projects, including new content Creates project‐level documentation structure for flight manuals and technical publications intended for use by pilots Serves as an expert in flight operations aspects of systems sufficient to communicate functional hazards and failure effects to safety analysis team Works with certification authorities to resolve certification issues Revises or authors new procedures and makes significant safety contributions to the flight test organization Provides reliable solutions to a wide range of difficult problems using sound problem‐solving techniques Serves as a mentor to less experienced flight test pilots (Flight Test Pilot 2) Basic Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Electrical, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering AND a minimum of 5 years relevant experience Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule) Commercial Pilot Certificate 2nd Class FAA Medical Certificate Minimum 1,500 hours total flight time Minimum 200 Flight Test Hours Previous flight test experience 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 Demonstrates strong and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills Desired Qualifications Previous experience in systems engineering or software development Flight Test Pilot DER or ODA Unit Member Qualification Commercial aviation experience is a plus Helicopter pilot qualifications 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 #J-18808-Ljbffr

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