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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Director, Engineering

Nashville, TN

Previous role(s) as a program Chief Engineer (or equivalent) on mission system, sensors, or ... Experience leading ground / flight test programs for manned / unmanned platforms & payloads

BNH

Lead System Administrator

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$108K - $131K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

BNH

Lead System Administrator

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$108K - $131K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

BNH

Lead System Administrator

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$108K - $131K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

BNH

Firewall Administrator

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

Bnh

Windows System Administrator

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

$74K - $102K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

BNH

Firewall Administrator

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

Bnh

Firewall Administrator

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

BNH

Firewall Administrator

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

BNH

Firewall Administrator

Arnold Air Force Base, TN · On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

S. Air Force to conduct Test and Operations Sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development ... flight test. Execution of the mission requires a large team of highly qualified and dedicated ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Flight Test Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$39.5K

$122.4K

$185.2K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Tennessee is $122,424.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,800.00 and $145,200.00 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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For Flight Test Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,424 per year, or $58.9 per hour.

Director, Engineering

Nashville, TN

L3HHCM20
See more jobs at L3HHCM20external

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee technical execution and planning for current and new programs within the ForceX business unit.

  • Serve as the technical focal point for program and product development efforts, including R&D-funded projects.

  • Track and report key metrics related to staffing, cost, schedule, and technical risks to support program management and decision-making.

Job description

Job Title: Director, Engineering 

Job Number: 41624

Location: Nashville, TN

Schedule: 9/80 (every other Friday off!)

Job Description:

The Targeting & Sensor Sensors (TSS) Sector within L3Harris Integrated Mission Systems seeks a Director Engineering Management to oversee technical execution and planning for both current and new programs within the ForceX business unit.  ForceX is focused on fielding scalable and innovative mission system software solutions and products for all domains, in addition to Counter-Unmanned System technologies.  Our solutions are tailored to mission CONOPS and designed with open standards and COTS/GOTS components where possible.  We provide cutting edge solutions to both manned and unmanned airborne platforms, ground vehicles, and surface ships for both domestic and international customers.  We operate in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and pride ourselves at responding quickly to customer needs (including rapid direct support to personnel using our operational systems around the world, 24/7/365).

Essential Functions:

The ForceX Director, Engineering Management will report directly to the TSS Sector Chief Engineer and will act as a liaison to the ForceX General Manager, Program Directors, and other senior leadership on all matters related to technical execution of ForceX programs (including cost, schedule, emerging challenges, and Engineering staffing resourcing).  The Director, Engineering Management will also build sound relationships with individual program Chief Engineers within the portfolio and provide guidance and direction on technical execution.  Essential functions include:

  • Serve as the technical focal point for execution of programs and product development efforts across the ForceX portfolio, including execution of R&D-funded efforts
  • Accurately track and report key metrics to feed projected staffing demand, cost/schedule inputs to program budget reviews, and technical risk & opportunity registers
  • Participate in bid/proposal activities as necessary for securing new business, with both new and existing customers
  • Responsible for supporting the growth and development of employees through leadership and mentorship
  • Provides clear, concise briefings to both internal and external audiences as required to support program objectives and convey status to senior leadership
  • Track and help shape R&D efforts that feed into the long-term ForceX portfolio
  • Excellent briefing and presentation skills; able to deliver technical information to a mixed audience with internal stakeholders and customer representation
  • Ability to adapt to and promote a strong "Mission First" culture, focused on always delivering for our customers
  • Previous role(s) as a program Chief Engineer (or equivalent) on mission system, sensors, or platform development efforts

Qualifications:

  •  Bachelor's Degree: with 15 years of experience in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or other relevant Engineering field(s). Master's Degree: with 13 years of experience in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or other relevant Engineering field(s). In Lieu of a Degree, a minimum of 19 years of relevant experience.
  • Secret Clearance required. DoD Secret clearance to start, ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance longer term
  • Ability to travel up to 25%, both CONUS and OCONUS
  • Requires 15+ years of experience, with heavy emphasis on multi-disciplinary Engineering leadership roles and software leadership background with hardware integration experience, leading multi-disciplined Engineering teams through entire product development lifecycle, Agile software development methodologies, lab and field testing of developmental and operational systems

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Top Secret / SCI clearance
  • Masters or Doctorate degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science
  • Experience leading ground / flight test programs for manned / unmanned platforms & payloads
  • Familiarity with computer networking protocols, Windows and Linux-based environments, and virtualization technologies

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