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Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Atlanta, GA

This position is looking for a highly motivated flight test engineer with emphasis in software/hardware capability development and evaluation for the Altius UAS platform. Altius is a Group 2/3 ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, CA

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

Ursa Major

Flight Test Engineer

Berthoud, CO

$90K - $110K/yr

As a Flight Test Engineer, you'll serve as the on-site technical authority regarding Ursa Major's hypersonic products, supporting system integration, operations, testing, and flight for customer ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air ...

Astrion

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$103K - $114K/yr

Overview Senior Flight Test Engineer LOCATION: Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability to Obtain Secret $5000 SIGN ON BONUS Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Flight Test Engineer ...

Astrion

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Overview Senior Flight Test Engineer LOCATION: Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability to Obtain Secret $5000 SIGN ON BONUS Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Flight Test Engineer ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of the ...

Electra Aero, Inc.

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air ...

MORSE Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

As Flight Test Engineer at MORSE, you are a critical member of the team taking vehicles from concept to flight leading fast-paced, iterative, and rigorous test campaigns managing both local and ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware). * Test duties ...

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All JobsFlight Test Engineer Jobs

Flight Test Engineer information

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$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

How much do flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test engineer in the United States is $134,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,000.00 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
Infographic showing various Flight Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 94% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,885 per year, or $64.8 per hour.
Flight Test Engineer/Test Conductor

Flight Test Engineer/Test Conductor

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Edwards, CA • On-site

$140K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) is seeking a Flight Test Engineer / Test Conductor to join our growing team at Edwards AFB in California. This position may be hired at the Associate, Career or Senior level.
This individual will be responsible for planning, execution, and reporting of flight tests for military platforms as a Test Conductor.
The following specific duties are anticipated:
• Author and review ground and flight test plans and test cards.
• Author and review flight test safety plans.
• Schedule resources for tests and coordinate with many engineering disciplines and outside agencies to ensure successful test execution.
• Lead test mission briefs as a Test Conductor
• Lead the execution of test missions as a Test Conductor
• Complete post-test mission reporting requirements.
• Other duties in-line with MTSI's core value to "Own and Solve our Customer's Problems."
Required:
• Bachelors degree in Engineering is required.
• Possess a willingness to accept changing and evolving roles & responsibilities in support of our customers' requirements and needs.
• Have a reputation of being a team player and work well in a team environment, as well as independently.
• Possess maturity and professionalism to lead the execution of flight test missions, briefings and oversee team of discipline engineers in a Mission Control Room.
Desired:
• Coursework relating to aeronautics, flight test, and/or electronic warfare capabilities
• Private Pilot license
• Prior experiences as a test conductor, test director, or flight test control room engineer
Travel:
Approximately 10-25% travel may be required.
Clearance Requirements:
Candidates must be able to qualify for and maintain a Top Secret clearance with special access programs.
U.S. Citizenship is required
This position may be filled at multiple levels depending on candidate pool. Anticipated salary depends on experience:
Associate Flight Test Engineer: $97,000 - $115,000 annually
Career Flight Test Engineer: $115,000 - $140,000 annually
Senior Flight Test Engineer: $140,000 - $172,000 annually
The pay range for this position in California is $97,000/year to $172,000/ year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via MTSI's internal or external careers site.
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