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Flight Test Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Flight Test Operator - Esparto,CA

Esparto, CA

$34 - $38/hr

About You and The Role You are a hands-on Flight Test Operator focused on executing high-volume ... technology, and directly improves the reliability of every delivery. What You'll Do * Own end-to ...

Seneca

UAS Flight Test Technician

Sausalito, CA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

As a UAS Flight Test Technician, you'll support Seneca's flight test program by preparing aircraft ... technology. That's the world Seneca is building. We're combining the deep expertise of seasoned ...

Archer

Program Manager, Flight Test

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $255K/yr

We are seeking a seasoned Flight Test Program Manager to lead the planning, execution, and certification of our flight test campaigns. This role acts as the critical link between the design ...

Archer

Program Manager, Flight Test

San Jose, CA

$160K - $255K/yr

We are seeking a seasoned Flight Test Program Manager to lead the planning, execution, and certification of our flight test campaigns. This role acts as the critical link between the design ...

A/V Services LLC

Remote UAS Flight Test Lead

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$31 - $44/hr

Engineering Flight Test Specialist II acts as remote pilot in command for unmanned aircraft systems ... technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning ...

AeroVironment

Flight Test Operator II

Simi Valley, CA

$23 - $35/hr

Flight tests are performed in the field utilizing various computerized test equipment. Conditions ... We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous ...

A/V Services LLC

Remote UAS Flight Test Lead

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$31 - $44/hr

Engineering Flight Test Specialist II acts as remote pilot in command for unmanned aircraft systems ... technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFlight Test Tech JobsFlight Test Tech Jobs in California

Flight Test Tech information

See California salary details

$83.9K

$113.5K

$135.7K

How much do flight test tech jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test tech in California is $113,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a flight test tech?

To thrive as a Flight Test Tech, you need a strong background in aircraft systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically an associate degree or relevant technical certification in aviation maintenance. Familiarity with flight data acquisition systems, avionics testing tools, and adherence to FAA regulations are essential for the role. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for conducting safe and accurate flight tests. These competencies ensure the reliability, safety, and compliance of aircraft during test operations.

What is the difference between Flight Test Tech vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectFlight Test TechAircraft Maintenance Technician
Required CertificationsFAA certifications, specialized flight test trainingFAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license
Work EnvironmentFlight testing aircraft, often outdoors, in aircraft hangarsMaintenance facilities, hangars, repair shops
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace and aircraft manufacturersCommercial, private, and military aircraft maintenance
Job FocusTesting aircraft performance and systems during flightRepairing, inspecting, and maintaining aircraft

While both roles require FAA certifications and involve working with aircraft, Flight Test Techs focus on conducting flight tests to evaluate aircraft performance, often in collaboration with engineers. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians handle routine repairs and inspections on aircraft on the ground. The two roles complement each other within the aerospace industry but differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

What are common challenges flight test technicians face during test campaigns?

Flight test technicians often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing test schedules, working in variable weather conditions, and troubleshooting unexpected technical issues on the aircraft. They must maintain a high level of attention to detail to ensure safety and data accuracy, especially when working with complex test instrumentation. Collaboration with engineers, pilots, and other technicians is essential to address issues quickly and keep test programs on track. Flexibility, clear communication, and strong problem-solving skills are key to successfully navigating these challenges.

How to become a flight test technician?

To become a flight test technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or an associate degree in aerospace, avionics, or a related field. Relevant skills include understanding aircraft systems, troubleshooting, and familiarity with testing procedures; certifications such as FAA airframe and powerplant (A&P) can enhance job prospects. Experience with flight testing, maintenance, or working in aerospace environments is also valuable.

What does a flight test technician do?

A flight test technician is responsible for preparing, maintaining, and operating aircraft and testing equipment during flight tests. They collect data, monitor aircraft systems, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working closely with engineers and pilots. Technical skills, knowledge of avionics, and certifications such as FAA airframe and powerplant are typically required.

What is a flight test tech?

Flight Test Technicians, often called Flight Test Techs, are specialized professionals who assist in the testing and evaluation of aircraft systems and components. They work closely with engineers and pilots to set up, monitor, and record data from test flights, ensuring all equipment is functioning properly and safely. Their responsibilities can include installing instrumentation, troubleshooting technical issues, and maintaining detailed records of test results. Flight Test Techs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and performance of new or modified aircraft before they enter regular service.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Tech jobs in California? For Flight Test Tech jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test Tech jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test Tech jobs in California are:
Flight Test Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,494 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

Flight Test Instrumentation Systems Lead

Joby Aviation

Marina, CA • On-site

$171K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
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.
Overview
Joby Aviation is seeking a highly motivated Flight Test Instrumentation Systems Lead to lead our Flight Test Instrumentation (FTI) & Ground Control Station teams. This role combines technical leadership and people management in a fast-paced flight test environment supporting both developmental and certification programs.
You will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the design, integration, operation, and maintenance of instrumentation, telemetry, and ground control stations across the flight test fleet. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong cross-functional collaboration, technical depth, and the ability to execute and lead in rapidly evolving test environments.
Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and grow a team of engineers and technicians responsible for FTI, telemetry, and Ground Control Stations
  • Establish team priorities, workflows, and staffing plans aligned with flight test program needs
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and technical excellence
  • Own the architecture, design, integration, and maintenance of all flight test instrumentation systems
  • Oversee data acquisition systems, sensors, signal conditioning, telemetry, and onboard recording systems
  • Ensure instrumentation readiness, calibration, and reliability for all flight test operations
  • Plan and manage FTI schedules, budgets, and resource allocation across multiple test campaigns
  • Drive coordination across flight test engineering, aircraft integration, maintenance, systems engineering and the program office
  • Develop and maintain processes for design, installation, configuration control, calibration, and maintenance of FTI systems
  • Ensure traceability and compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements (FAA/EASA)
  • Guide the design of development of hardware and software solutions supporting flight test instrumentation and telemetry
  • Evaluate and integrate new technologies and tools to improve data quality, efficiency, and scalability
  • Provide technical oversight for troubleshooting, anomaly resolution, and root cause investigations

Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
  • 10+ years of experience in flight test instrumentation, data acquisition, or related domains
  • Proven experience leading and developing technical teams in a flight test environment
  • Deep expertise in one or more of the following:
    • Flight Test Instrumentation systems design and integration
    • Data acquisition hardware, telemetry systems, and sensor integration
    • Instrumentation installation, calibration, and maintenance
  • Strong understanding of:
    • Flight test processes and aircraft integration
    • Configuration management and documentation practices
    • Data quality, validation, and traceability in test environments
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
  • Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, rapidly changing flight test environment

Desired
  • Experience with LabVIEW or similar DAQ/software tools
  • Experience supporting FAA Part 23/25/27/29 or EASA certification programs
  • Knowledge of air data systems and calibration methods
  • Familiarity with aircraft wiring, avionics integration, and structural instrumentation (strain, pressure, vibration)
  • Experience with Ground Control Stations and telemetry infrastructure
  • Demonstrated success scaling teams and processes during rapid program growth

Additional Information
Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $171,200 - $234,300/yr. The compensation package will be determined by 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

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