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Flight Test Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VTG

Supply Chain SME - Flight Test Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking a Supply Chain SME - Flight Test Engineer in McLean, VA What will you do ... Evaluate technologies, architectures, and implementation approaches to recommend optimal solutions.

Electra Aero

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call ... Stand up an instrumentation capability that supports both ground and flight test. * Lead ...

Electra

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$55.25 - $71.25/hr

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 ...

Electra

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$150K - $180K/yr

Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call ... Stand up an instrumentation capability that supports both ground and flight test. * Lead ...

Tyonek Native Corporation

$27.25 - $35.75/hr

Tyonek Services Group provides aviation maintenance, aircraft modification, prototype integration, flight test support, and aviation management services in support of the Technology Development ...

Electra

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call ... You'll work closely with the Systems Test Manager and flight test team to stand up a capability ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFlight Test Tech JobsFlight Test Tech Jobs in Virginia

Flight Test Tech information

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 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 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.

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.

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 to evaluate aircraft performance and safety. They collect data, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compliance with safety standards, often working closely with engineers and pilots. The role requires technical skills, knowledge of aviation systems, and certifications such as FAA airframe and powerplant licenses.

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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Senior System Integration & Test Engineer

Blacksburg, VA • Hybrid

Secmation
Software Development • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Secmationexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Senior System Integration & Test Engineer

Competitive Salary (Based on Experience and Market Conditions)

Signing Bonus • Equity • Relocation Assistance

Hybrid | Huntsville, AL | Full-Time | 9/80 Schedule

This isn't another defense contractor job.

Join a mission-focused engineering team integrating and testing complex RF-, embedded-, hardware-, and software-intensive systems for national defense. This senior-level individual-contributor role is centered on hands-on system integration, verification, validation, and test execution from benchtop and laboratory environments through HWIL, field testing, and formal Government-sponsored test events, including flight testing where applicable.

Why experienced engineers choose Secmation

  • Own meaningful integration and test activities from early benchtop work through formalGovernment-sponsored test events.
  • Work directly with complex RF, embedded, hardware, and software systems in laboratory, HWIL, field, and flight-test environments.
  • Collaborate directly with Government customers, subcontractors, industry partners, and internal development teams.
  • Solve cross-disciplinary integration problems and drive defects, risks, and test-readiness issues to closure.
  • Work within a small, highly technical team where individual engineers have visible impact.
  • Help transition defense technology from development into validated, operational capability.

What you'll do

Independently own system integration, verification, validation, and test activities for complex defense systems. This is a highly hands-on individual-contributor role focused on technical execution, troubleshooting, test planning, verification, and customer-facing test readiness. The position does not carry formal technical team-lead responsibilities.

You'll work across:

  • Benchtop and laboratory integration through HWIL, field testing, and formal Government-sponsored test events, including flight testing where applicable.
  • Translation of system requirements, technical capabilities, interfaces, and constraints into executable test plans, procedures, verification methods, and objective readiness and acceptance criteria.
  • Integration of complex RF, embedded, hardware, and software subsystems, including cross-disciplinary troubleshooting and root-cause analysis.
  • Technical coordination with Government customers, subcontractors, industry partners, program stakeholders, and internal development teams.
  • Identification and management of integration risks, defects, technical action items, test readiness, and issue resolution through closure.
  • System-level test execution, data analysis, verification evidence, detailed test reporting, and technical briefings to internal leadership and Government customers.

What we're looking for

  • U.S. citizenship and an active DoD Secret security clearance are required, with the ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI.
  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • 8+ years of progressive experience in systems integration, verification, validation, test engineering, or related systems engineering roles supporting complex hardware- and software-intensive systems within defense or national security programs.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently own integration and test activities from benchtop and laboratory integration through HWIL, field testing, and formal Government-sponsored test events.
  • Strong background integrating and testing RF, embedded, hardware, and software systems, including troubleshooting complex cross-disciplinary interfaces and system-level failures.
  • Experience applying Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies to support system definition, interface management, verification, or test activities.
  • Proven experience planning, coordinating, and executing verification and validation activities, including laboratory, HWIL, field, and flight-test environments where applicable.
  • Experience translating system requirements, technical capabilities, interfaces, and constraints into executable test plans, procedures, verification methods, traceability, acceptance criteria, and detailed test reports.
  • Experienceidentifying integration risks, managing defects and technical action items, performing root-cause analysis, and driving test readiness and issue resolution to closure.
  • Strong coordination and communication skills, with experience managing technical interfaces across Government customers, subcontractors, industry partners, and internal development teams, and preparing technical briefings, reports, and customer presentations.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience and market conditions
  • Signing bonus
  • Company equity
  • Relocationassistance
  • Hybrid 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off
  • Paid time off and flexible work schedules
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life and short- and long-term disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement benefits with company contribution

Work Environment

  • Hybrid role with on-site workrequired in Huntsville, Alabama.
  • Flexible 9/80 work schedule supporting every other Friday off.
  • Hands-on laboratory, integration, and test work with periodic field or Government-sponsored test activities as required by the program.

About Secmation

Secmation develops AI-enabled software, embedded cybersecurity, secure RF systems, and advanced communications technologies for the U.S. defense community. Our mission is to deliver next-generation secure technologies for Electronic Warfare, autonomous systems, and critical defense applications.

Small company. Big mission. Real engineering.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Secmation is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable law.

The salary range represents a general guideline. Secmation considers the scope and responsibilities of the position, as well as a candidate's experience, education, skills, work location, current market conditions, and other bona fide factors when determining compensation.

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