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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Skyways

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

The Opportunity As a Senior Flight Test Engineer, you'll own the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests that validate our aircraft's performance, safety, and reliability. You'll define ...

Skyways

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Austin, TX

The Opportunity As a Senior Flight Test Engineer, you'll own the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests that validate our aircraft's performance, safety, and reliability. You'll define ...

Skyways

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

The Opportunity As a Senior Flight Test Engineer, you'll own the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests that validate our aircraft's performance, safety, and reliability. You'll define ...

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All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Texas

Flight Test Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$40.5K

$125.7K

$190.1K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Texas is $125,666.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,300.00 and $149,100.00 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 engineering roles in specialized fields such as defense, space exploration, or executive positions tend to have the highest compensation, often requiring advanced certifications and significant expertise.

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 industry sector. Senior engineers or those working for major aerospace companies may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires specialized skills in aeronautics and testing procedures.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace or flight test engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like defense or commercial aviation. These roles often require advanced degrees, leadership responsibilities, and work in complex testing environments.

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 specifications. 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 protocols.
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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you

Flight Test Engineer

Delta Black Aerospace Inc

Mckinney, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description:

ABOUT DELTA BLACK AEROSPACE


Delta Black Aerospace is a U.S.-based OEM redefining unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for mission-critical defense applications. Founded and led by former Warfighters and senior industry Subject Matter Experts, Delta Black is developing the RAIDER 330 — a patented Group 3 UAS delivering Group 4 capabilities. The RAIDER 330 features true Hybrid-Electric Propulsion (HEPS), Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) and Extreme Short Takeoff and Landing


(E-STOL). Headquartered in McKinney, TX, Delta Black moves at 5x the pace of traditional defense primes.


POSITION OVERVIEW


Delta Black Aerospace is seeking an experienced Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, and analyze flight test campaigns for the RAIDER 330 UAS. This is a foundational role in the company’s path to fielding a certified, combat-proven Group 3 UAS. You will be responsible for developing the flight test program from initial ground runs through envelope expansion, payload integration, and operational mission profiles — including VTOL, E-STOL, hybrid-electric transitions, and GPS-denied operations. The right candidate combines rigorous test methodology with the operational instincts of someone who understands how warfighters will use this system.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES


» Develop and manage the RAIDER 330 flight test program including test plans, test cards, and data requirements for all flight phases

» Execute flight test sorties coordinating with ground pilots, safety pilots, and ground crew

» Perform envelope expansion testing for VTOL, E-STOL, and fixed-wing cruise regimes including hybrid-electric propulsion transitions

» Collect, reduce, and analyze flight test data; author test reports and performance characterization briefs

» Conduct safety risk assessments, hazard analyses, and develop test safety plans for all test events

» Coordinate flight test logistics including test site access, airspace coordination, range safety compliance, and regulatory liaison (FAA COA or COA waivers)

» Work with integration engineers to define instrumentation requirements and ensure proper data capture for all test objectives

» Support payload integration flight tests including ISR sensor checkout, MBM module validation, and Multi-INT platform verification

» Conduct GPS-denied environment testing and evaluate navigation system robustness in contested conditions

» Document and disposition anomalies; drive corrective action to closure in coordination with design engineers

» Prepare and brief test readiness reviews (TRRs) and present results to internal leadership and government customers

Requirements:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS


» Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical discipline

» 5+ years of flight test experience on fixed-wing, rotary-wing, or UAS platforms

» Experience developing and executing formal flight test plans, test cards, and envelope expansion programs

» Proficiency with flight test data acquisition, reduction, and analysis tools (MATLAB, Python, or equivalent)

» Familiarity with FAA UAS regulatory framework including Part 107, COA operations, and BVLOS waivers

» Strong written communication skills for test reports, anomaly reports, and briefing materials

» Experience operating in field environments with physical demands associated with remote test site operations

» Understanding of airworthiness documentation and configuration control in a test program context


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS


» USAF, USN, USA, or USMC flight test training (TPS graduate or equivalent service school) strongly preferred

» Experience as a UAS operator, pilot, or rated aviator with operational flight hours

» Background with Group 2-5 UAS test programs

» Experience testing VTOL or hybrid propulsion aircraft

» Familiarity with GPS-denied operations and contested electromagnetic environment (EMCON) test procedures

» Experience with government test and evaluation (DT&E, OT&E) programs or JOTT/JITC processes

» Active Secret or Top Secret/SCI clearance

» Prior experience briefing senior military or government acquisition officials


SECURITY CLEARANCE


Active Secret clearance required; Top Secret/SCI strongly preferred. U.S. Citizenship required.


COMPENSATION & BENEFITS


» Competitive base salary commensurate with experience; equity participation available

» Full medical, dental, and vision benefits

» 401(k) with company contribution

» Travel to test sites domestically and potentially OCONUS — this role involves meaningful field time

» Opportunity to shape the test program for a groundbreaking defense UAS from early development through fielding

» Direct collaboration with former Warfighters and a leadership team that has been the end user