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Flight Test Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... and systems behavior. * Run root cause analysis on anomalies and failures and drive them to ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or experience operating unmanned aircraft. * Background ...

... and systems behavior. * Run root cause analysis on anomalies and failures and drive them to ... FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or experience operating unmanned aircraft. * Background ...

Our system strengthens supply chains, reduces congestion, and gives people time back. With more ... About You and The Role You are a hands-on Flight Test Operator focused on executing high-volume ...

Flight Test Operations ... Instrumentation & Data Systems - Test Software & Telemetry, System Design & Development, System ...

Bachelor's of Science in aerospace engineering, systems engineering or other engineering discipline. * 4+ years of professional working experience. * Experience working with flight test and Safety ...

Flight Test Operator

San Clemente, CA Β· On-site

$77K - $120K/yr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Build, program, and maintain autonomous aircraft for flight. * Work with Test Engineers on a ...

Flight Test Engineer

Camarillo, CA Β· On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's of Science in aerospace engineering, systems engineering or other engineering discipline. * 4+ years of professional working experience. * Experience working with flight test and Safety ...

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... As a Flight Test Engineer you will partner with the Ghost engineering to be responsible for test ...

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Flight Test Systems Operator information

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$137.5K

How much do flight test systems operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test systems operator 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 a flight test systems operator?

Flight Test Systems Operators are specialized professionals who assist in testing aircraft systems during development and certification flights. They are responsible for operating, monitoring, and recording data from avionics, propulsion, and other onboard systems while ensuring safety and compliance with testing protocols. Their work supports engineers and pilots in evaluating aircraft performance and identifying any issues that need to be addressed before full-scale production or operation.

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

To excel as a Flight Test Systems Operator, you need a strong background in aeronautical engineering, systems integration, and data analysis, typically supported by a relevant technical degree or military training. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, telemetry systems, and data acquisition software is essential, along with certifications like FAA or EASA licenses where applicable. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, safe test operations, and effective collaboration in the high-stakes environment of flight testing.

What are some typical challenges faced by a flight test systems operator during a test campaign?

Flight Test Systems Operators often encounter challenges such as rapidly adapting to changing test plans, troubleshooting complex avionics or telemetry issues in real-time, and ensuring precise data collection under strict safety protocols. The role requires close coordination with engineers, pilots, and ground crews to interpret test objectives and relay critical information. Effective communication and a thorough understanding of both aircraft systems and test procedures are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful flight test outcomes.

What is the difference between Flight Test Systems Operator vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectFlight Test Systems OperatorFlight Test Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a pilot license or technical certifications related to aircraft systemsRequires engineering degrees, often in aerospace or mechanical engineering
Work EnvironmentOperates and monitors flight test systems during aircraft testingDesigns, plans, and analyzes flight test programs
Industry UsageCommonly employed in aerospace testing facilities and military aircraft testingWorks in aerospace companies, research labs, and testing agencies

The Flight Test Systems Operator primarily focuses on operating and monitoring flight test systems during aircraft tests, often requiring technical certifications or pilot licenses. In contrast, the Flight Test Engineer designs and analyzes test procedures, requiring engineering expertise. Both roles are essential in aerospace testing but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Systems Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Flight Test Systems Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,999 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Senior Flight Test Engineer (Flight Test Technical Expert)

Marina, CA β€’ On-site

Joby Aviation
AviationΒ β€’Β 1 - 5K employees

$154K - $206K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.


Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Senior Flight Test Engineer (Technical Expert) to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes developing detailed flight test plans for experimental CTOL/VTOL fly-by-wire aircraft, executing testing as a crewmember, and test data analysis. The role involves planning and execution of both development and certification flight testing. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are looking for an individual who can work with system designers to develop test procedures, deal with frequently changing test scenarios, and lead/follow effectively. This role can be based at our Flight Test Headcourters at Marina, CA, or at our secondary flight test facility in Hollister, CA.


  • Lead the execution of development, company, and certification flight testing of Joby S4 aircraft:
  • Develop flight test methods for our new and novel eVTOL aircraft to show compliance to FAA's airworthiness criteria as an expert in the assigned technical area(s) (Flying Qualities, Handling Qualities, aircraft systems, propulsion, avionics, and/or human factors),
  • Responsibilities also include flight test planning, flight test readiness reviews, flight test support as part of the flight test crew, real-time data monitoring, and post-flight reporting.
  • Develop flight test programs to strategically expand the envelope and capabilities of our vehicles, from experimental development through certification flight test, with focus on assigned technical areas.
  • Collaborate with test pilots and other engineering groups across the company to develop flight test plans and ensure safe and effective test execution.
  • Advise flight test pilots of the nature of the data to inform real-time decisions affecting safety, efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Conduct engineering analysis of flight test data to support aircraft design and certification deliverables.
  • Report on completed tests, including reporting any observed deficiencies and findings of compliance with requirements or regulations.
  • Complete administrative work associated with testing, including configuration management, squawk reporting, flight limitation management, and test card creation.
  • Assist with troubleshooting and root cause investigation of issues observed during flight testing.
  • Develop expert-level knowledge of the systems and aircraft under test.
  • Develop flight manuals and supporting documentation necessary for safe vehicle operation in accordance with established operating procedures.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.

  • Passion for flight testing and willingness to learn about our new and novel aircraft.
  • Bachelor of Science (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or other technical field) degree or equivalent experience and training.
  • Minimum of 8 years of experimental flight test experience as a Flight Test Engineer.
  • Expert-level knowledge in one or more of the technical areas, including familiarity with FAA AC 23-8C, AC 27-1B, and other applicable industry standards:
    • Flying Qualities and Handling Qualities
    • Performance
    • Loads and flutter
    • Aircraft systems and/or propulsion
    • Avionics
    • Human factors
  • Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively communicate across a wide range of technical disciplines.
  • Strong technical and analytical skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
  • Proficiency in reading and speaking English.
  • Flexibility to work extended hours and travel up to 30%

  • FTE graduate of a recognized test pilot school or equivalent on the job experience.
  • Experience as a Test Conductor.
  • Working experience with data analysis tools such as Matlab, Python, or similar.
  • Civil aircraft certification experience, including familiarity with ARP 4754 processes.
  • Experimental flight test experience as a Flight Test Engineer, preferably including VTOL or STOVL with fly-by-wire systems.
  • Flight Analyst DER or ODA Unit Member.
  • Familiarity with FAA Order 4040.26C.

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $154,600 - $206,100/yr. The compensation package offered will be determined by location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more. 


Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.