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Flight Test Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Our technology enables operations from soccer-field-sized spaces, unlocking thousands of new ... You will work closely with aerodynamics, flight sciences, systems, certification, flight test, and ...

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA ยท Hybrid

$150K - $188K/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 ...

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$150K - $188K/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 ...

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$150K - $188K/yr

Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call ... SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and aircraft as a whole; engineering flight simulators ...

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

Showing results 21-40

Flight Test Tech information

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.
Infographic showing various Flight Test Tech job openings in Virginia 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.

Flight Controls & GNC Engineer, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Remote)

Technology Service Corporation (TSC)

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

TSC is seeking a Flight Controls & GNC Engineer (Remote) to serve as a key contributor for Flight Controls Systems in our Airborne ISR Division. This position is crucial to the success of the Product line's overall safety and performance.

As a key contributor in the Airborne ISR Division, this position is crucial to the overall return on investment for TSC's commitment to technological research and development for the AISR domain. This position will work closely with the Systems Engineering team, front-line Operators, Technical Leads, Program Managers to maximize technology transfer to the market through continuous iterations of development, test, fielding, customer engagement, and sustainment of solutions. Travel may be required up to 50% and will vary depending upon home-basing location.

Asa Flight Controls & GNC Engineer, you can anticipate some of your day-to-day responsibilities to include:

  • Serving as a key focal point for flight control automation. Required to translate information at the technical level and execute multiple parallel technological initiatives at any given time.
  • Executing project tasks within a technical team focused on Flight Controls and GNC Automation encompassing multiple fixed wing platforms.
  • Communicating and accomplishing tasks with cross functional stakeholders in the execution of experimental learning experiences in a HIL/SIL, ground and flight test.
  • Conduct various types of data analysis in support of time sensitive developmental or operational efforts, funneling documented results back into risk management and safety workflows for additional review, procedural or safety bulletins, product support and future technological development projects.
  • Support the development, planning or execution of a variety of test related activities required for internal and customer driven projects, processes, or gate reviews.

Required Qualifications

  • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Aerospace, Controls engineering or other relevant discipline, plus a minimum two years of direct experience with fixed wing UAS Flight Controls and GNC implementation.
  • US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
  • Demonstrated experience in technical project teams, assessing risk, and executing tasks to maintain the required pace to reach viable technical solutions.
  • Practical experience with development or operational improvement of fixed wing UAS technology.
  • Hands-on experience in software development for flight controls and in guidance, navigation and control for fixed wing systems.
  • Ability to understand automation challenges or gaps, and participate in solutions-based collaborations.
  • Ability to execute operations of hardware-in-the-loop simulators, conducting testing and troubleshooting of HW/SW interfaces. Familiarity with software configuration management tools, version control systems, defect tracking tools, and workflows with peer review required.
  • Ability to individually contribute and execute tasks assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

  • The ideal candidate has more than five years of directly relevant experience in the Required Qualifications and thrives working amongst a team with other highly technical engineers and business-oriented innovators.

TSC Benefits:

TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefit package; including ESOP participation, 401k Plan, Flexible Work Schedules, Tuition Reimbursement, Co-Sponsored Health Plan, Paid Leave and much more.

Applying to TSC:

Only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted. Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, security investigation, and a drug screening.


This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.