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Flight Test Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Canvas

Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Arnold, MD · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an ...

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

Washington, DC

$115K - $215K/yr

Shield AI is seeking an experienced Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and improve ground and flight test operations for a fast-paced next gen aircraft system. You will work closely ...

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

Washington, DC · On-site

$115K - $215K/yr

Shield AI is seeking an experienced Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and improve ground and flight test operations for a fast-paced next gen aircraft system. You will work closely ...

HRB

E-130J Navigation Flight Test Engineer

Highland, MD · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Supports test and evaluation of E-130J Navigation Systems Applies engineering principles to research, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test, or evaluate systems. Reviews and prepares ...

VTG

Supply Chain SME - Flight Test Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking a Supply Chain SME - Flight Test Engineer in McLean, VA What will you do? The Supply Chain SME provides senior-level expertise in the planning, design, integration, and ...

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All JobsFlight Test Engineer JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Flight Test Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$49.3K

$152.8K

$231.1K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in Washington, DC is $152,770.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,500.00 and $181,200.00 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

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For Flight Test Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Flight Test Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,770 per year, or $73.4 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer (PL)

Canvas

Arnold, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Flight Test Engineer

Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH

This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an application does not guarantee an interview or offer of employment. Opportunities are subject to business needs, contract requirements, funding, and customer approval.

The Flight Test Engineer provides critical systems engineering, test planning, and operational execution support to the 715 TS IDT Flight. Acting as the Lead Developmental Test Organization (LDTO) on behalf of the Air Force Test Center (AFTC), this role is responsible for the safe and effective execution of hypersonic flight test programs. The position spans junior to senior experience levels, requiring progressive responsibility in test design, range coordination, safety documentation, and post-flight data analysis.

The primary functions of this role are categorized below. Personnel at senior levels are expected to perform these duties with high autonomy and lead cross-functional teams.


Test Planning & Design: Draft, review, and finalize detailed flight test plans, Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRM), and Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMP) for hypersonic test assets.
Safety & Compliance: Generate, review, and complete all required safety documentation, including formal hazard analyses, risk assessments, and Go/No-Go checklists prior to test executions
Mission Execution: Act as a key LDTO representative during active flight tests. Coordinate with range control, program offices, and control room personnel to ensure adherence to test profiles and safety parameters.

Data Analysis: Perform post-flight analysis of telemetry and flight data to verify system performance against established requirements and aerodynamic models.

Reporting & Briefings: Author comprehensive technical test reports, engineering memos, and deficiency reports. Present test readiness briefings to senior government and military leadership.

Mentorship (Senior Levels): Provide technical leadership and guidance to junior engineering staff, ensuring the transfer of institutional knowledge regarding range operations and flight test protocols.

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