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

804 Technology

Flight Test Engineer

Seattle, WA

Flight Test Engineer The primary role in this position is as a Flight Test Engineer who is responsible for coordinating test and certification requirements, authoring and executing flight and ground ...

804 Technology

Flight Test Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$85 - $95/hr

804 Technology is currently seeking a Flight Test Engineer for a contract job opportunity that is Hybrid remote and in Seattle WA. The primary role in this position is as a Flight Test Engineer who ...

804 Technology

Instrumentation Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$85 - $95/hr

The Instrumentation Test Engineer must have a unique skill set that can work across functions ... Airborne Flight Test support will include instrumentation systems test equipment setup, inflight ...

AeroTEC Inc.

MANAGER - TEST & EVALUATION

Seattle, WA

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

Interlune

Lunar Surface Test Engineer

Seattle, WA

$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.

Interlune

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.

SpaceX

Hardware Test Engineer (Starlink)

Redmond, WA

$115K - $145K/yr

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

SpaceX

Hardware Test Engineer (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

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

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Flight Test Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$49.5K

$153.5K

$232.2K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Seattle, WA is $153,502.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,100.00 and $182,100.00 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 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
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Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 78% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $153,502 per year, or $73.8 per hour.
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

804 Technology

Seattle, WA

Contractor

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Flight Test Engineer
The primary role in this position is as a Flight Test Engineer who is responsible for coordinating test and certification requirements, authoring and executing flight and ground test plans for a wide variety of aircraft platforms including FAA Part 23, 25, 27 and 29 as well as new and novel technology demonstrator programs such as electric and hydrogen propulsion. This role requires the significant exercise of independent discretion and judgment in matters of significance. Additional opportunities also exist to support the design team, flight science team or other teams as company needs and personal career desires dictate.
  • Coordinate test and certification requirements.
  • Author component level qualification test plans and procedures, aircraft level certification plans, flight and ground test plans as well as associated test hazard analysis (FAA Order 4040.26); coordinating with the customer and regulation authorities as required.
  • Author FTEO (Flight Test Engineering Order) packages for test specific installations.
  • Generate and review appropriate test limitations documentation.
  • Planning any and all aspects of a test campaign (test schedule, sequence, test setup requests, experimental ticket process, logistics, resources, third party support, airport and airspace coordination, test readiness, safety of flight, etc).
  • Support ground operations, including weight and balance activities, fuel management, pre-flight and post-flight and ground test conduct and data collection.
  • Serve as an onboard test crew member in the role of Test Director, Instrumentation Operator or Flight Test Engineer as necessary (condition specific or safety of flight data monitoring and real-time evaluation and calls).
  • Analyze test data using time history plots, various analysis tools or custom solutions, evaluate compliance with regulations or internal requirements and prepare certification reports and substantiation documentation.
  • Domestic and occasional international travel is required.

Education

  • Four (4) year degree in Engineering with a focus in Electrical Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or related Science or equivalent experience.

Experience

  • Minimum Five (5) years of relevant Flight Test Engineering experience related to experimental flight test operations. Experience in all the above activities is not critical.
  • Experience with FAA Part 23, 25, 27 or 29 certification and related flight and ground test planning, test conduct, and test data analysis. Operational experience should also include knowledge of test maneuver techniques and build-up methodologies.
  • Experience testing new and novel aviation technology such as green aviation technologies is desired.
  • Private Pilot’s License is desired.
  • Previous Water & Land Survival training is desired.
  • Previous Physiological training (altitude chamber) is desired.
  • Desired for Cross-Training Opportunities:
  • Aerospace engineering experience in Flight Sciences, including experience in aerodynamic testing and/or design; flight testing of aircraft performance and handling characteristics, including experience with take-off; landing; climb and route performance; static-source error corrections and stall speed testing; longitudinal & lateral/directional stability and control; minimum control speeds; stall characteristics; high speed characteristics, crosswind takeoff/landing and flight into known icing.
  • Experience with CFD is desired but not required.
  • Flight Test Instrumentation design, installation and operations experience desired.

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About 804 Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In today’s environment, successful companies need more than what just works, they need unique options for their individual business needs. 804 adjusts to changing needs and then helps clients expand to meet the unfamiliar without sacrificing their trust. 804’s greatest company value is what we deliver; we deliver people. They are the core of our business. That is why we only consider ourselves successful when our people deliver to your expectations.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cottleville, MO, US

Year founded

2004

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