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Flight Test Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Principal Flight Controls Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call ... We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by ...

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Flight Test Tech information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Flight Test Tech, and why are they important?

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 highest salary for avionics technicians?

Avionics technicians can earn salaries up to $80,000 or more annually, especially with advanced certifications and experience working on complex aircraft systems. Top earners often work in specialized environments or for large aerospace companies. Salaries vary based on location, skills, and employer size.

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 some 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.

What does a flight test technician do?

A flight test technician is responsible for preparing, maintaining, and supporting aircraft during flight testing to evaluate performance, safety, and systems. They conduct inspections, troubleshoot issues, and record data using specialized tools and equipment, often working closely with engineers and pilots in a controlled environment. Certification and technical skills in aeronautics are typically required for this role.

How much do flight testers make?

Flight Test Technicians typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They perform testing and data collection on aircraft systems, often working with specialized tools and adhering to safety protocols.

What are Flight Test Techs?

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.

How do I become a flight test engineer?

To become a flight test engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of aircraft systems, data analysis, and experience with flight testing procedures; obtaining certifications such as FAA pilot licenses or safety training can also be beneficial.
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Tech jobs in Virginia? For Flight Test Tech jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test Tech jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test Tech jobs in Virginia are:
Flight Test Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Tech job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Engineering Manager- Flight Control System

Engineering Manager- Flight Control System

Electra Aero, Inc.

Manassas, VA • Hybrid

$153K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Engineering Manager – Flight Control System

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

As the Engineering Manager – Flight Control System, you will serve as both the Integrated Product Team (IPT) lead and people manager responsible for development of the Flight Control System (FCS) for the EL9 Ultra Short aircraft.

You will inherit an established system architecture and initial requirements baseline and lead your team in finalizing preliminary design, driving detailed design execution, and maturing the system to a certifiable configuration.

This role requires deep expertise in systems engineering as well as strong leadership capabilities to build and scale a high-performing team. You will work cross-functionally across systems, avionics, actuation, propulsion, and flight test teams, and play a central role in bringing a novel aircraft configuration through certification.

What You'll Do

  • Own the end-to-end Flight Control System development for the EL9 aircraft, from preliminary design through certification.
  • Lead development and validation of system integration, ensuring alignment across actuation, avionics, propulsion, and structures.
  • Define and execute the certification approach, including functional certification plans, safety assessments (FHA, FMEA, FTA), and compliance artifacts.
  • Build and lead a high-performing flight controls team, providing technical direction while delivering on program cost, schedule, and milestones.
  • Oversee system integration, verification, and flight test, ensuring the FCS meets performance, safety, and reliability targets at the aircraft level.

What You'll Bring:

  • Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive complex programs to execution.
  • Familiarity with industry-standard aerospace development and certification practices (e.g., ARP4754A) applied to complex aircraft systems.
  • Familiarity with integrated aircraft systems, including actuation, avionics, sensors, and propulsion interfaces.
  • Prior involvement in aircraft certification programs, including direct engagement with FAA or equivalent authorities.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Ability to balance deep technical involvement with strategic leadership responsibilities.

Bonus Points

  • Experience leading flight controls development for novel or highly integrated aircraft configurations (e.g., STOL, eVTOL, hybrid-electric aircraft).
  • Experience integrating flight controls with electromechanical actuation systems and power architectures.
  • Experience with redundant and fault-tolerant control system architectures.
  • Background in supplier management for flight-critical systems.
  • Experience building, scaling, and managing high-performing engineering teams, including hiring, mentoring, and driving technical excellence and accountability.

Compensation

$153,000 – $185,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters

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