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

As of Aug 14, 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 does a flight test instrumentation technician do?

A flight test instrumentation technician installs, maintains, and repairs the sensors, data acquisition systems, and electronic equipment used to collect flight performance data during aircraft testing. They work closely with engineers to ensure accurate data collection and may troubleshoot issues with instrumentation systems in a laboratory or aircraft environment. Certification in electronics or avionics is often required, and the job involves working in a controlled environment with safety protocols.

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?

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 is a flight test instrumentation technician?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,999 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Flight Test Instrumentation Manufacturing Engineer - (SJ2026MV)

Archer

Santa Clara, CA

$187K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

What You'll Do 

  • Conduct the manufacturing and installation planning for flight test instrumentation hardware on experimental and production airplanes that require instrumentation. 
  • Lead the Build and Assembly integration process of the airplanes flight test instrumentation system. 
  • Support the Developmental Test and Certification Efforts of Archer's piloted eVTOL aircraft project. 
  • Collaborate with design engineering to develop installation and assembly planning for flight test instrumentation installs. 
  • Work with internal customers and vendors to solve instrumentation and measurement related challenges. Lead make/buy decisions for flight test hardware and harnesses. 
  • Key advisor to the Instrumentation Director regarding status of the instrumentation builds, assembly challenges, integration with airplane build, and parts status. 
  • Develop processes and documentation to support the procurement, installation, and checkout of flight test instrumentation and ancillary hardware. 
  • Collaborate with the New Product Integration Team, Manufacturing Engineering, Suppliers, and Design Engineering to plan and perform all required test installation and modification activities. 
  • Collaborate with all engineering design and analysis teams to establish a comprehensive instrumentation plan. Assist in designing instrumentation wiring, termination details, and physical and digital integration with the aircraft and aircraft systems. 
  • Assist in designing all hardware required for flight test. For example, instrumentation racks, air data booms, aircrew interfaces, workstations, camera systems, telemetry systems, etc. 
  • Perform Instrumentation Installation and assembly work with the support of an instrumentation technician team. 
  • Ensure flight test instrumentation activities are completed on time and within budget.

Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree in Engineering.

Minimum Experience Requirement: Aircraft Maintenance Lead, Manufacturing Engineer or related job title in which three (3) years of experience with testing, troubleshooting, preventative and corrective maintenance and repair of aircraft or prototype aircraft hardware and systems using JIRA, SAP or other planning software and configuration management process was gained.

Alternate Experience Requirement: Aircraft Maintenance Lead, Manufacturing Engineer or related job title in which five (5) years of experience with testing, troubleshooting, preventative and corrective maintenance and repair of aircraft or prototype aircraft hardware and systems using JIRA, SAP or other planning software and configuration management process was gained.

Please apply online at: https://www.archer.com/careers. Must put job code SJ2026MV on resume/CV and cover letter. 

At Archer we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our business. For this position we are offering $187,782 to $197,171 per year.

 #LI-DNI

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