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Flight Test Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... Familiarity with software development practices, progressive test environments (SITL HITL Flight ...

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... As a Flight Test Engineer you will partner with the Ghost engineering to be responsible for test ...

Flight Test Director

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$220K - $292K/yr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... test environments (SITL, HITL, Flight). * Manage project test leads and lead test engineers ...

About You and The Role Zipline's flight test facility turns new aircraft capabilities into safe ... tech. If you like the sound of this position but are not sure if you are the perfect fit, please ...

Our mission is to provide innovative advanced technology solutions to customers facing issues of ... Mobius is seeking a Flight Test Engineer. In this role, you will collaborate with other missile ...

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 ...

Flight Test Planner In this fast paced and operational environment, there is no day similar to the next. At Airbus we face daily challenges, but through collaborative teamwork we overcome them by ...

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Flight Test Tech information

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$85K

$115K

$137.5K

How much do flight test tech jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test tech in the United States is $114,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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Who are the top companies hiring for Flight Test Tech jobs?

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What states have the most Flight Test Tech jobs?

States with the most job openings for Flight Test Tech jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Tech jobs?

For Flight Test Tech jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Flight Test Tech job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,999 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Flight Test Team Lead

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Flight Test Team Lead to accelerate the development and testing of our new advance air mobility vehicle. This person will  lead the flight test engineering and operations team to safely perform the on-ground and in-flight duties in support of the passenger transport aircraft intended to partake in the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) / Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and future product development.

Responsibilities:

  • Day-to-day management of the flight test team members including pilots and engineers by maintaining a schedule of tasks and deliverables
  • Apply collaborative approach with to flight test team to execute flying onboard experimental aircraft and/or unmanned flying vehicle operation as a crewvmember following appropriate training.
  • Communication and coordination of efforts relating to testing activities with all other disciplines
  • Test documentation and reporting, including technical review and generation of test plans, instructions, test limitations and post flight reports.
  • Coordination of test aircraft and experimental equipment configuration for test.
  • Conduct and implement safety and risk mitigation procedures as defined by company policies, and compliance with FAA Regulations (be familiar with FAA Order 4040.26B).
  • Ensure test team is adequately trained for the appropriate missions including manned and unmanned aircraft operations and telemetry room staff.

Requirements

  • Bachelors degree
  • 10+ years test experience experience working in aircraft development projects with hands-on flight test engineering or flight test pilot experience working ground and/or flight test
  • Experience leading flight test programs or projects
  • Fundamental knowledge of aircraft performance, mechanical, structure, material,
  • and electrical engineering with aeronautical engineering is required.
  • Full-time working on-site at the company flight test center and/or office required.
  • Experience in the Flight Test and Certification roles or at least one full FAA
  • certification program Part 23/25/27/29 (from first flight to certification).
  • Private or commercial pilot license