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Flight Test Tech Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$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 ...

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$100 - $140/hr

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 ...

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$115K - $144K/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 ...

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$115K - $144K/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 ...

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 ...

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$139K - $168K/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 ...

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$139K - $168K/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 ...

Electrical Engineer

Fort Eustis, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $140K/yr

Develop multiple ELA reports and flight test instrumentation plans for multiple aircraft projects ... Knowledge of Parametric Technology Pro-Engineer/CREO CAD software. * Working knowledge of the Army ...

Our technology will enable all 8 billion people on the planet to stay connected with the existing ... Developing test software to support unit, integration, and system testing of all flight software ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Aircraft Structures Mechanic III

Tyonek Native Corporation

Newport News, VA โ€ข On-site

$27.25 - $35.75/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

General Description:
Tyonek Services Group provides aviation maintenance, aircraft modification, prototype integration, flight test support, and aviation management services in support of the Technology Development Directorate (TDD), Aviation and Systems Integration Division (A/SID).
The Aircraft Structures Mechanic III serves as a senior aircraft structural repair and modification specialist supporting research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) aircraft. This position is responsible for aircraft structural repairs, fabrication, modifications, prototype installations, and airframe integration efforts supporting experimental and developmental aviation programs.
The selected candidate will work closely with engineers, flight test personnel, and maintenance teams to execute aircraft modifications, potentially support flight operations, and maintain aircraft airworthiness.
Duties:
  • Perform aircraft structural repair, modification, fabrication, and installation activities on military and commercial aircraft.
  • Fabricate, repair, modify, and install airframe structural components in accordance with approved technical data, engineering drawings, and maintenance publications.
  • Perform sheet metal layout, drilling, riveting, forming, fitting, assembly, and structural repair operations.
  • Manufacture and install prototype aircraft components, modification kits, brackets, mounts, panels, and specialized structures supporting flight test programs.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, repair schemes, technical manuals, and installation instructions.
  • Support aircraft integration activities involving developmental, prototype, and experimental systems.
  • Assist structural and mechanical engineers with aircraft modifications, troubleshooting, and installation planning.
  • Remove, inspect, repair, modify, and install structural components and airframe assemblies.
  • Perform corrosion identification, treatment, repair, and prevention activities.
  • Utilize sheet metal brakes, shears, rollers, drill presses, rivet guns, bucking bars, precision measuring tools, and specialty fabrication equipment.
  • Safely operate Aviation Ground Support Equipment (AGSE) and support equipment required for maintenance and modification activities.
  • Utilize Aircraft Notebook (ACN) or equivalent maintenance tracking systems to document maintenance actions and initiate work orders.
  • Maintain bench stock, tools, consumable materials, petroleum products, and HAZMAT inventory necessary to support maintenance and modification operations.
  • Provide ground support during flight operations including tethered hover operations, pace vehicle operations, external load support, and other flight test activities.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience Requirements:
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum of 8-10 years of aircraft structural repair, aircraft sheet metal, airframe modification, or aircraft maintenance experience
  • Experience performing structural repairs, aircraft modifications, and fabrication activities on military or commercial aircraft
  • Experience interpreting engineering drawings, blueprints, technical publications, and installation instructions
  • Experience fabricating, fitting, and installing aircraft structural components
  • Experience supporting aircraft modification, integration, or modernization programs
  • Ability to work effectively with engineers, flight crews, and maintenance personnel in a research and development environment
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform post offer, pre-employment substance abuse testing

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Army 15G Aircraft Structural Repairer experience
  • Air Force Aircraft Metals Technology experience
  • Navy or Marine Corps Airframes experience
  • Rotary-wing aircraft maintenance experience
  • Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) aircraft experience
  • FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certificate
  • Night Vision Goggle (NVG) qualification
  • Experience supporting classified aviation programs
  • Opportunities may exist to participate in flight test activities. Candidates capable of meeting flight duty requirements are encouraged to apply

Physical Requirements:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
  • Must be able to walk and stand on level and/or inclined surfaces for certain periods throughout the day.
  • Must be able to climb stairs, ramps, ladders, and work stands, working at heights with fall protection devices
  • Must be able to crouch, crawl, grasp or handle objects, use finger dexterity, bend elbow/knee and reach above/below shoulders.
  • May be required to lift up to 50 pounds and carry for short distances.
  • May be required to read dials/gauges, identify small objects and hand tools.
  • Must be able to see imperfections, micrometer readings and other small scales.
  • Must be able to communicate by voice and detect sound by ear.
  • Must be able to distinguish color and judge three-dimensional depth.
  • May be required to operate power vehicles, machinery, hand tools, ground support equipment, forklift, APU, etc.

Equal Opportunity Employer / VEVRAA / ADA:
TNC and its subsidiaries fall under ANCSA and are entitled under Federal Law to extend hiring preferences to its shareholders. ANCSA provides TNC the authority to give shareholder preference in hiring. TNC reaffirms its belief in equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment. Tyonek is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and a VEVRAA governed Federal Contractor who affords equal employment opportunity to protected veterans and people with disabilities. TNC provides all employees and job applicants equal employment opportunities in hiring and promotion without regard to age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, religion, color, veteran status, genetic information, physical or mental disability, national origin or any other reason prohibited by law.