ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFlight Test Instrumentation Technician Jobs

Flight Test Instrumentation Technician information

See salary details

$85K

$115K

$137.5K

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

As of Jul 1, 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.

How much do flight testers make?

Flight Test Instrumentation Technicians typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They work with specialized testing equipment and often require knowledge of aircraft systems and safety protocols.

How much do flight test instrumentation engineers make?

Flight test instrumentation technicians typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Advanced skills in data acquisition systems, troubleshooting, and familiarity with aerospace testing environments can influence salary levels.

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 does a flight test technician do?

A flight test instrumentation technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting testing equipment used during aircraft flight tests. They ensure data collection systems function correctly and work closely with engineers to support flight testing operations, often using specialized tools and following safety protocols. Their work helps validate aircraft performance and safety standards.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Flight Test Instrumentation Technicians are in high demand due to the need for specialized skills in aircraft testing and data collection. The role requires knowledge of sensors, data acquisition systems, and calibration, and employment opportunities are often available in aerospace and defense industries with steady growth prospects.

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.
More about Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs
What states have the most Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs are:
Flight Test Instrumentation Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Instrumentation Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,999 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
Flight Test Instrumentation Technician (Onsite, Stratford, CT)

Flight Test Instrumentation Technician (Onsite, Stratford, CT)

Stage 4 Solutions Inc

Stratford, CT • On-site

$60 - $68/hr

Contractor

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Flight Test Instrumentation Technician (Onsite, Stratford, CT) 

We are looking for an Flight Test Instrumentation Technician for a global aerospace company. In this role, you will install and configure strain gauges and instrumentation wiring on aircraft and structural components to support flight and ground testing operations and accurately measure stress, load, torque, and structural performance.

This is a 12-month contract (extensions likely), 40-hour-per-week (4-day 10-hour shifts per week) role, this is an Onsite role in Stratford, CT.

This is a W-2 role as a Stage 4 Solutions employee. Health benefits and 401K are offered.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform strain gage installations required to support ongoing Engineering Flight and Ground test operations.
  • Must have knowledge of strain gage Wheatstone bridge wiring methodology.
  • Must be able to apply gages to aircraft and facility components manufactured from of a variety of metals and composites.
  • Fluency and experience with Micro-Measurements techniques and procedures is preferred.

Requirements:

  • 5+ years of experience and ability to accomplish required surface preparation, strain gage measurement, layout, alignment and bonding.
  • Experience with measurement systems, instrumentation wiring, documentation, and Wheatstone Bridge wiring of strain gages to measure Torque, Axial Load, Bending and Shear strain.
  • Requires flexibility to support overtime, extended and modified shift requirements.
  • Equivalent of 4 years high school and 2 years engineering college or tech school

Please submit your resume to our network at http://www.stage4solutions.com/careers/(Please apply to the Flight Test Instrumentation Technician (Onsite, Stratford, CT) role.

Please feel free to forward this opportunity to others who may be interested.

Stage 4 Solutions is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to providing employees with an inclusive environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are based on the job requirements and candidates’ qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion/belief, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, genetic information or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Compensation: $60.00/hr - $68.00/hr

#LI-SW1