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Flight Test Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Staff Aeroacoustics Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$113K - $138K/yr

Manage contractors and interface with academic partners developing acoustic tools and supporting analyses. * Support ground and flight test activities, including acoustic testing and test planning ...

SimIS

Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA

$113K - $136K/yr

Performs analysis to determine adequacy of NWE, ground, and flight test infrastructure, facilities ... Management Center (TRMC) needs Benefits: * Medical, Dental, and Vision * Short Term Disability ...

SimIS

Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA

$113K - $136K/yr

Performs analysis to determine adequacy of NWE, ground, and flight test infrastructure, facilities ... Management Center (TRMC) needs Benefits: * Medical, Dental, and Vision * Short Term Disability ...

SimIS Inc.

-- Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

Performs analysis to determine adequacy of NWE, ground, and flight test infrastructure, facilities ... Management Center (TRMC) needs Benefits: * Medical, Dental, and Vision * Short Term Disability ...

SimIS Inc.

-- Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

Performs analysis to determine adequacy of NWE, ground, and flight test infrastructure, facilities ... Management Center (TRMC) needs Benefits: * Medical, Dental, and Vision * Short Term Disability ...

Electra

Engineering Manager - Control Laws

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$153K - $185K/yr

The Role As the Engineering Manager - Control Laws, you will serve as both the engineering lead and ... flight test * Ensure that the control laws meets performance, safety, and handling quality ...

Parsons Corporation

Advanced Test Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$134K - $241K/yr

This oversight encompasses the full test lifecycle for flight, ground, and cyber testing, including ... Capable of establishing and optimizing priorities and managing planning and readiness activities of ...

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Flight Test Manager information

What does a flight test manager do?

A Flight Test Manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of flight test programs for new or modified aircraft. They lead teams of engineers, pilots, and technicians to ensure test flights are conducted safely and effectively, adhering to regulatory standards. Their responsibilities include developing test plans, analyzing data, and reporting results to ensure the aircraft meets all performance and safety requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight test manager?

To thrive as a Flight Test Manager, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, test planning, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience in flight test operations. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and industry-standard safety protocols is essential, and certifications like DER or equivalent can be advantageous. Outstanding leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial for coordinating multidisciplinary teams and ensuring smooth test execution. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant flight test programs that deliver actionable results for aircraft development.

What are some common challenges a flight test manager faces when coordinating test schedules and resources?

Flight Test Managers often encounter challenges in balancing tight project timelines with the availability of specialized personnel, aircraft, and testing equipment. Unexpected technical issues or weather delays can impact test schedules, requiring quick problem-solving and adjustments. Effective communication and collaboration with engineering, maintenance, and regulatory teams are essential to keep testing on track while ensuring safety and compliance. Adapting to shifting priorities and maintaining a detailed overview of multiple test activities are key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Flight Test Manager vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectFlight Test ManagerFlight Test Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire flight test programs, manages teams, plans testing schedules, and ensures safety compliance.Conducts specific flight tests, collects data, analyzes results, and reports findings.
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in aerospace engineering, pilot certifications, and experience in flight testing.Requires a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering, with experience in flight testing and data analysis.
Work EnvironmentLeads teams in test aircraft operations, collaborates with engineers and pilots, often in test ranges or labs.Works directly on aircraft during testing, often in labs or on test flights, focusing on data collection and analysis.

The main difference is that the Flight Test Manager oversees the entire testing program and team, ensuring safety and schedule adherence, while the Flight Test Engineer focuses on executing specific tests and analyzing data. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

Test and Launch Engineer II - Launch Pad

Wallops Island, VA • On-site

Rocket Lab Corporation
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Rocket Lab Corporationexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON 

Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab, a publicly traded end-to-end space company. The rocket can deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven history with Electron – the second most launched rocket, worldwide, in 2024. If you're interested in joining an incredible team in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, this is your opportunity. 

HASTE 

HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 3 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability to deliver hypersonic test vehicles to the required flight conditions for cutting-edge aerodynamic and propulsion research. The program represents an exciting evolution of the Electron platform, supporting critical national defense and aerospace research objectives while maintaining Rocket Lab's commitment to rapid, reliable launch operations. 

TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER II – LAUNCH PAD

The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab manages all aspects of testing, launching, and mission operations for the Electron and Neutron rockets, including facility and equipment oversight. Test and Launch Engineers serve as mission controllers, developing procedures, conducting real-time operations, analyzing data, and ensuring safe and reliable launches from Mission Control. They are responsible for troubleshooting issues, leading training exercises, and making critical decisions during live missions. Test and Launch Engineer II position is an advanced role for operators who can independently manage console operations, mentor junior staff, and lead projects to improve procedures and systems. This engineer plays a key role in continuous operational improvement and support both Electron and Neutron missions.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: 

  • Work in Mission Control as a console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations
  • Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations
  • Develop and improve Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for ground systems monitoring and control
  • Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals
  • Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems issues
  • Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts
  • Develop, operate, and test ground systems relating to Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
  • Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch pad systems including GSE, fluid systems, and industrial controls
  • Lead and manage testing projects for ground systems, including cryogenic loading tests, pressurization system checkouts, and integrated pad operations
  • Mentor and train other operators within the Test and Launch Operations team on launch pad systems and ground operations
  • Author, review and carry out operations procedures for launch pad systems
  • Support the development of Neutron ground systems and operations procedures
  • Receive instructional training and become qualified as a launch operator on Electron launch vehicles

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering)
  • 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, with focus on ground systems, industrial controls, or fluid systems
  • 4+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

  • 3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
  • Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
  • Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test may be considered an alternative
  • Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
  • Experience with ground support equipment, launch pad systems, or industrial control systems
  • Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/cryogenic/pressurized/hazardous systems
  • Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations
  • Experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, or automated control sequences
  • Knowledge of propellant handling operations
  • Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, or HMIs
  • Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia's pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.  

Base Pay Range (VA Only)
$87,000—$110,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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