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Flight Test Instrumentation Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archer

Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Perform Instrumentation work with the support of an instrumentation technician and Aircraft Operations Team * Ensure flight test instrumentation activities are completed on time and within budget ...

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How much do flight test instrumentation technician jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test instrumentation technician in the United States is $114,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Flight Test Instrumentation Technician vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectFlight Test Instrumentation TechnicianFlight Test Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires an associate degree or technical certification in avionics or electronicsUsually holds a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentHands-on work in test flights, laboratories, and maintenance facilitiesDesigns test plans, analyzes data, and oversees flight testing processes
Industry UsageCommonly employed by aerospace manufacturers, defense contractors, and testing agenciesWorks alongside test teams, often in project management and design roles

While both roles are integral to flight testing, the Flight Test Instrumentation Technician focuses on installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting instrumentation hardware. In contrast, the Flight Test Engineer designs test procedures, analyzes data, and ensures flight test objectives are met. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in aerospace testing.

What are some common challenges faced by Flight Test Instrumentation Technicians during aircraft testing campaigns?

Flight Test Instrumentation Technicians often work in fast-paced, high-stakes environments where timelines can shift quickly due to weather, aircraft availability, or engineering changes. A major challenge is troubleshooting complex data acquisition systems in real time, often under tight deadlines. Technicians must also ensure that all sensors and equipment are properly calibrated and securely installed to collect accurate data during test flights. Effective communication and collaboration with engineers, pilots, and other technicians are essential to address issues promptly and to maintain safety and data integrity throughout the testing process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Test Instrumentation Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Test Instrumentation Technician, you need a strong background in electronics, instrumentation, and data acquisition, typically supported by an associate degree or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with systems such as LabVIEW, data loggers, wiring diagrams, and calibration tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, reliable instrumentation performance, and the overall safety and success of flight test operations.

What are Flight Test Instrumentation Technicians?

Flight Test Instrumentation Technicians are specialized professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting instrumentation systems used during aircraft flight testing. They ensure that sensors, data acquisition systems, and recording devices are properly set up to capture critical performance data throughout test flights. Their work supports engineers and test pilots by providing accurate, real-time information that is essential for evaluating aircraft safety, performance, and compliance with regulations. These technicians often work on both military and commercial aircraft during development, certification, or modification programs.
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What states have the most Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs include:
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Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Instrumentation Technician job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,999 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
V22 Flight Test Instrumentation Technician, Pax River

V22 Flight Test Instrumentation Technician, Pax River

Bell Flight

Lexington Park, MD

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

 V-22 Flight Test Instrumentation Technician (Patuxent River, MD)

We're more than aviation experts, we're pioneers. We challenge what's possible. From breaking the sound barrier to advanced tiltrotor systems. Today, Bell is shaping the future of aviation through specialized engineering. And we want you.

We are developing the future of Army Aviation with the Bell V-280 Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA), part of the US Army's Future Vertical Lift (FVL) modernization effort. We are also developing the Bell 525 Relentless, Bell's Autonomous Pod Transport (APT), and Bell's High-Speed Vertical Take-Off and Landing (HSVTOL) program, a next generation stop-fold tilt-rotor.

Bell Flight is seeking a Flight Test Instrumentation (FTI) Technician to support the testing and development of product improvements for USMC and USN V-22 tiltrotor aircraft at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station located at Patuxent River, Maryland.

Bring your experience and ideas and be part of the dynamic group that is leading the future of vertical lift. The Flight Test Instrumentation Technician team at Bell is responsible for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of the Data Acquisition Systems required for safe execution of all development and certification test activities for civil and military programs. Working alongside likeminded talent, you'll be able to hone your technical abilities on engineering problems, gaining experience in leadership and communication while playing a significant role in propelling Bell forward as the leading edge in innovative future product development.

What you'll be doing as a Flight Test Instrumentation Technician

As a FTI Technician, you will be a vital part of an Integrated Product Team (IPT) working alongside test directors, discipline engineers, instrumentation engineers, and test pilots to plan and execute multiple projects within established flight test guidelines to achieve safe flight operations involving telemetered parameters for real-time data monitoring and collection for post-test analysis. Those projects will include executing installation of instrumentation systems onboard test aircraft, supporting calibration and check out of support hardware, and maintaining / troubleshooting the systems throughout the test program. You will be able to hone your technical abilities on significant engineering problems, all while gaining experience in leadership and communication.

Fabricate, maintain, and operate an Airborne Data Acquisition Systems (ADAS) used to support flight and ground test activities. Troubleshoot and upgrade all related instrumentation systems.

Perform daily Instrumentation preflight checks and ADAS software loads to ensure data system quality and accuracy.

Provide guidance to Electricians and Mechanics on Instrumentation related installations and/or repairs.

Fabricate electrical boxes used within the ADAS or to simulate and validate data.

Maintain inventory for Flight Test Instrumentation equipment to ensure accurate up-to-date information, and create trouble reports for all hardware in need of repair.

Document work performed on RFAs, in Electronic Workbook, and through daily written tie-ins.

Adhere to Bell's best practices and procedures to ensure quality and safe data acquisition and operations.

Skills You Bring To this Role:

Ability to read and understand electrical drawings.

Ability to prioritize work, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, good interpersonal and organizational skills, along with a team player mindset.

Ability to climb onto ladders, platforms, etc., to access instrumentation installed on the aircraft.

Ability to perform minor hardware modification or sheet metal fabrication.

Experience in fabricating cables, including terminating connectors, and soldering. Current, or previously attained, J-STD-001 certification preferred.

A solid understanding of the principles of electronics, including voltage, current, resistance, impedance, and power.

Experience with using basic and advanced lab hardware (signal generators, oscilloscopes, analyzers, power meters, etc.,)

Should be skilled with Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

What you need to be successful:

We are looking for inquisitive and driven technicians, with a passion towards innovation.

Associate's degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related Field; a demonstrated proficiency in a flight test instrumentation or avionics technician role may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Minimum 1 year of experience required in a relevant field.

Must be able to work overtime as required in the Flight Test environment.

Must be able to travel up to 25% of the time, as needed, to support short term (up to two months) off-site assignments at other locations.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET security clearance: This position requires the use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). All applicants must be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. The ITAR / EAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e., 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee. Non-U.S. persons selected must meet eligibility requirements for access to export-restricted information.

In compliance with the local pay transparency law, the hourly pay range for this position is below.
$39.90 - $52.88

What we offer you in return:

80 hours of Personal Time Off (PTO)

120 hours Vacation time

12-13 paid holidays per year

6 weeks parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Competitive salary

Comprehensive health insurance

Access to more than 11 Employee Resource Groups

And so much more

It's time to make your mark on the future of aviation. Join us on this mission, and let's make history together.

We are on a journey to amplify innovation, cultivate purpose and bridge experiences by fostering a culture that is driven by unique perspectives, voices and values.

Apply