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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Flight Test Lead [US/UK]

Seattle, WA · On-site

$100 - $160/hr

Now, we are assembling a dynamic team of engineers and builders ready to propel our technology to ... Core responsibilities As Flight Test Lead you will be responsible for conducting flight tests of ...

Spanning Structures and Flight Sciences, Design and Stress, Mechanical Systems, Aircraft Systems, Systems Engineering and Certification, Test and Evaluation, and Product Innovation, the Department ...

Flight Control Law Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$155K - $215K/yr

You will design, implement, integrate, and test flight control laws for all phases of operation ... MS in aerospace engineering, robotics, or similar advanced degree * Current pilot, instrument or ...

Lunar Surface Test Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110K - $195K/yr

We are seeking a test engineer to develop and execute test approaches for lunar surface systems across early R&D, prototype development, environmental verification, and flight hardware qualification.

We are seeking a test engineer to develop and execute test approaches for lunar surface systems across early R&D, prototype development, environmental verification, and flight hardware qualification.

Sr. Flight Guidance Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$215K - $300K/yr

Reduce and analyze simulation, lab, and flight test data * Evaluate guidance system performance and ... MS in aerospace engineering, robotics, or equivalent field * 8+ years professional experience ...

HARDWARE TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK) SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and ... Get hands-on and support hardware through production, satellite integration, and flight

HARDWARE TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK) SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and ... Get hands-on and support hardware through production, satellite integration, and flight

HARDWARE TEST ENGINEER (STARLINK) SpaceX is leveraging its experience in building rockets and ... Get hands-on and support hardware through production, satellite integration, and flight

We are looking for an entry level Satellite Test Engineer to help develop and execute testing to qualify new satellite designs for flight This is a fast-paced, intellectually challenging opportunity ...

We are looking for an entry level Satellite Test Engineer to help develop and execute testing to qualify new satellite designs for flight This is a fast-paced, intellectually challenging opportunity ...

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Flight Test Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$49.5K

$153.6K

$232.3K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Seattle, WA is $153,589.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,100.00 and $182,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Flight Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Flight Test Engineer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Flight Test Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,589 per year, or $73.8 per hour.

Flight Test Maintenance Operations Subject Matter Expert

Boeing

Seattle, WA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 612 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Flight Test Maintenance Operations Subject Matter Expert

Company:

The Boeing Company

Boeing is seeking a Flight Test Maintenance Operations Subject Matter Expert to support flight line activities, aircraft design-build execution, and flight test programs, reporting to Seattle, Washington.

The successful candidate will read and interpret engineering drawings, evaluate and revise flight line policies and procedures, and serve as a maintenance SME (Subject Matter Expert) from pre-planning through build and test execution.

This role requires hands-on flight test maintenance experience, strong technical writing skills, and the ability to recommend and implement process improvements that maintain safety, regulatory compliance, and program objectives.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Ability to work on or near aircraft on the flight line, climb ladders, work from lifts/scaffolds, and work in noisy/outdoor conditions

  • Must be able to lift and move equipment as required by maintenance tasks

  • May require occasional travel and irregular hours to support test events

Security & Compliance

  • Must comply with Boeing and customer safety, security, and quality requirements

Position Responsibilities Include:

  • Read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, structural and systems schematics, and engineering change orders (ECOs) to support flight test maintenance and modifications

  • Serve as the maintenance SME for flight test programs: participate in pre-planning, design reviews, build planning, tasking, and execution of aircraft modifications and test configurations

  • Review, write, and revise Boeing maintenance processes, procedures, and job cards to ensure compliance with Boeing policies, customer requirements, and regulatory standards (FAA/EASA/other as applicable)

  • Recommend and implement changes to maintenance policies and procedures to increase safety, efficiency, and reliability of flight line operations

  • Create and maintain technical documentation, maintenance instructions, and inspection criteria for test-configured aircraft

  • Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for in-flight and ground maintenance discrepancies; mentor technicians and engineers on maintenance techniques and procedures

  • Coordinate with design engineers, program management, quality assurance, and safety to ensure integrated and compliant maintenance solutions

  • Support risk assessments, pre-flight briefings, and post-flight debriefs related to maintenance status and configuration control

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • This position requires the ability to obtain a US Security Clearance for which the US Government requires US Citizenship

  • 10 or more years of experience in Aviation industry maintenance

  • 5 or more years of experience (military or commercial) in aircraft maintenance and Flight line operations

  • Experience in test instrumentation planning, installation, and/or design

  • Experience in ground support equipment and/or tooling engineering

  • Experience in the following: aircraft production, ground operations and/or flight-line operations

  • Experience reading and understanding engineering drawings, blueprints, schematics, and specifications

  • Ability to work in a lab environment which includes climbing ladders, scaffolding, and high lift equipment

  • Willing to work travel domestically up to 10% of the time

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active.)

  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certificate or national equivalent

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace/Aeronautical Science or related Aviation Maintenance discipline

  • Proven experience as a subject matter expert on aircraft maintenance practices, modification builds, or flight test maintenance programs

  • Experience leading cross-functional teams in design-build-test environments

  • Experience using technical authoring tools and maintenance record systems

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills; demonstrated ability to write, edit, and implement maintenance procedures and technical documentation

  • Experience developing, reviewing, and implementing Boeing command media (BPI's, PRO's, BPG's etc.) specific to flight line policies and procedures

  • Familiarity with applicable regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA 14 CFR, Part 43/145, EASA or other regional requirements), and with Boeing maintenance/flight test standards

  • Demonstrated experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, maintenance manuals and Boeing command media (BPI's, PRO's, BPG's etc.)

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeingis a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Shift:

This role is primarily first shift; however, there may be additional shift requirements to support flight test schedules/program objectives.

Travel:

This role may require occasional domestic travel to flight test locations to support testing objectives.

Pay & Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary pay range: $119,000 - $161,000

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Not Applicable

Relocation:

Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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