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Flight Test Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Manage and communicate test-specific vehicle limitations and flight readiness review actions. * Coordinate on-vehicle test requirements with overall manufacturing and program schedules. * Mentor less ...

Skyryse

Flight Test Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during ... FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - CAMARILLO, CA We are advancing flight control and automation technology ...

Hermeus

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$138K - $187K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer at Hermeus, you will help plan, coordinate, and execute ground and ... On-site test management, including test card generation, briefing, debriefing, documenting test ...

Clutch Canada

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

On-site test management, including test card generation, briefing, debriefing, documenting test ... Conduct/direct ground and flight tests as part of the flight crew in the ground control station

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Manage and communicate test-specific vehicle limitations and flight readiness review actions. * Coordinate on-vehicle test requirements with overall manufacturing and program schedules. * Mentor less ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Test Engineer

California, MO · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Manage and communicate test-specific vehicle limitations and flight readiness review actions. * Coordinate on-vehicle test requirements with overall manufacturing and program schedules. * Mentor less ...

Poseidon Aerospace

Flight Test Engineer

California, MO · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Proven track record drafting detailed flight test cards, managing test configurations, and operating within highly structured flight test environments. * Data Tools: Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or ...

New

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

High signal (engineering) to noise (management) culture * Dream desk setup * Daily lunch * Unlimited celsius This is not a normal flight test job * We are pioneers, not corporate managers. Icarus ...

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA

High signal (engineering) to noise (management) culture * Dream desk setup * Daily lunch * Unlimited celsius This is not a normal flight test job * We are pioneers, not corporate managers. Icarus ...

Stratolaunch

$150 - $200/hr

Manage and communicate test-specific vehicle limitations and flight readiness review actions. * Coordinate on-vehicle test requirements with overall manufacturing and program schedules. * Mentor less ...

Icarus

Flight Test Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

High signal (engineering) to noise (management) culture * Dream desk setup * Daily lunch * Unlimited celsius This is not a normal flight test job * We are pioneers, not corporate managers. Icarus ...

Mobius

Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Serve as an Assistant Test Resource Manager supporting the government's Test Resource Manager with a variety of pre-mission flight test planning, architecture development and test execution ...

MORSE Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

You will provide technical support for multiple programs by managing logistics, safety, and overall coordination of flight test activities. This role will work with engineers across a variety of ...

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Flight Test Manager information

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$115K

$137.5K

How much do flight test manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test manager 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 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.

What states have the most Flight Test Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Flight Test Manager jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Manager jobs?

For Flight Test Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Flight Test Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,999 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA • On-site

Stratolaunch
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Stratolaunchexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
As a Flight Test Engineer, you will enable development and successful flight testing of Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a Test Conductor, or other lead position, during flight test and air-launch test missions. You will have an active leadership role in developing test plans and schedules, mission procedure documentation, and compliance with approved launch license procedures. You should possess considerable experience in conducting and leading disciplined, effective developmental flight test, or similar experience in a technically demanding environment. You must establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues on a small, agile design-to-flight team. You will be challenged with bringing unique and complex aircraft from initial flight to operational use, at a company that believes in giving our team members the authority and responsibility to succeed.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead the mission control room team as a Test Conductor, or similar operational role, during experimental flight test of the Roc carrier aircraft and/or the Talon hypersonic vehicle testbeds.
  • Lead the Mission Operations team assigned to a flight or series of flight as the main liaison to program management personnel.
  • Responsible for safe and effective conduct of ground and flight test missions, and engineering support from the mission control room.
  • Develop depth of engineering and system knowledge to enable rapid decision-making and task prioritization.
  • Lead test or flight readiness reviews prior to test plan execution.
  • Coordinate range, airspace, and support resources in support of flight test missions.
  • Develop and document procedures for expanded mission control room operations, to support air-launch test missions with multiple aircraft and separate control elements. Develop and document procedures covering all aspects of test mission execution for the integrated launch system.
  • Support development of test strategy and objectives, test plans and mission cards for ground and inflight testing and identify test hazards and develop mitigation actions.
  • Coordinate closely with vehicle engineering teams to define test and data requirements and help identify system safety or operational concerns.
  • Manage and communicate test-specific vehicle limitations and flight readiness review actions.
  • Coordinate on-vehicle test requirements with overall manufacturing and program schedules.
  • Mentor less experienced personnel in proper flight test planning and execution.
  • Assess readiness of mission control room discipline engineers and support functions.
  • Travel, as needed, to support mission planning, launch approval meetings, and other tasks.
  • Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and initiative to fulfill commitments.

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
REQUIRED:
  • Technical aerospace experience, including training in a technical discipline.
  • Ability to analyze and prioritize tasks on their own initiative, and drive projects to completion, to fit within overall business goals.
  • Ability to lead a small team, make decisions, communicate requirements, and quickly adapt to changing priorities.
  • Previous experience with new, experimental, or modified aircraft, launch vehicles or spacecraft, technical and safety review boards, and configuration control methods.
  • Experience with engineering and test data analysis tools such as IADS and MATLAB.
  • Knowledge of risk management or safety management systems.
  • Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience leading flight test programs.
  • Be able to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel periodically.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance.

HIGHLY DESIRED:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, or similar technical foundation
  • Flight Test Engineer graduate of a recognized test pilot school long course
  • Experience as a Test Conductor for a developmental test program
  • Experience as a Flight Test Engineer or control room engineer on an active test program
  • Experience with launch vehicle or aircraft requirements verification
  • Experience with launch vehicle, air-launch, or high-speed flight programs
  • Experience with government flight test organizations, ranges, and procedures
  • Experience operating in a classified work environment or with classified hardware

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Level II ($101-000-$146,500): Bachelor's degree or higher from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Sr. Level ($120,000-$158,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Staff Level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
  • This position is located in Mojave, CA.
  • Travel estimated to be approximately 5%
  • #LI-Onsite

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You're within a half day's drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state's best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke's in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won't find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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