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Flight Test Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Garmin Ltd.

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Arizona City, AZ · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Overview We are seeking a full-time Senior Flight Test Engineer for Garmin's Mesa, AZ location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of complex ...

Garmin Ltd.

Senior Flight Test Pilot

Arizona City, AZ · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

Overview We are seeking a full-time Senior Flight Test Pilot for Garmin's Mesa, AZ location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of flight test ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Mechanic

Yuma, AZ

Joby is seeking a skilled Flight Test Aircraft Maintenance professional with experimental and R&D aircraft experience to support new and novel aircraft flight test programs. In this role, you will ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Mechanic

Yuma, AZ · On-site

Overview Joby is seeking a skilled Flight Test Aircraft Maintenance professional with experimental and R&D aircraft experience to support new and novel aircraft flight test programs. In this role ...

Raytheon

Tomahawk Flight Test Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

In this role, you will be supporting the successful completion of flight test events, platform integration laboratory testing events, and the associated analysis of test data. The position is located ...

Raytheon

Tomahawk Flight Test Engineer

Tucson, AZ

In this role, you will be supporting the successful completion of flight test events, platform integration laboratory testing events, and the associated analysis of test data. The position is located ...

Raytheon

Tomahawk Flight Test Engineer

Tucson, AZ

In this role, you will be supporting the successful completion of flight test events, platform integration laboratory testing events, and the associated analysis of test data. The position is located ...

Prattwhitney

Tomahawk Flight Test, P5

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$132.40 - $251.60/hr

Perform integration, verification, and testing to ensure the system under test meets design, specifications, and/or requirements. * Collect, review, and assess data; prepare detailed analytical ...

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Flight Test information

See Arizona salary details

$79.2K

$107.2K

$128.1K

How much do flight test jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test in Arizona is $107,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $121,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flight test?

Flight test engineers are professionals who plan, execute, and analyze tests on aircraft and aerospace systems to ensure they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. They work closely with pilots, design engineers, and technicians to develop test plans, monitor flight data, and evaluate the results. Their work is crucial in certifying new or modified aircraft before they are approved for commercial or military use. Flight test engineers often work for aerospace manufacturers, government agencies, or research organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight test engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Test Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, along with experience in aircraft systems and data analysis. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, telemetry systems, and certifications such as FAA DER or EASA CVE are often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and clear communication skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These competencies ensure safe, accurate evaluation of aircraft performance, compliance with regulations, and effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in flight test roles?

Flight Test professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing test conditions, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and effectively communicating with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, pilots, and maintenance staff. Coordinating test schedules and data collection can also be complex due to weather variability and aircraft availability. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate efficiently under pressure.

What is the difference between Flight Test vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectFlight TestFlight Test Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires pilot licenses, engineering degrees, or specialized flight testing certificationsRequires engineering degrees, certifications in testing or aviation, and pilot licenses in some cases
Work EnvironmentConducted in aircraft, test ranges, and flight test facilitiesInvolves planning, analysis, and coordination of flight tests, often in labs and on aircraft
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aerospace companies, defense contractors, and government agenciesEmployed by aerospace firms, military, and research organizations

Flight Test refers to the overall process of testing aircraft in flight, often involving pilots and test teams. Flight Test Engineer focuses on designing, analyzing, and managing these tests. Both roles are essential in aerospace development, with Flight Test being the broader activity and Flight Test Engineer specializing in the technical and analytical aspects.

Do flight test engineers make good money?

Flight test engineers typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their specialized skills in aircraft testing, systems analysis, and safety protocols. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry sector, with many professionals earning above average wages in aerospace and defense industries. Certifications and technical expertise in avionics and testing tools can also influence earning potential.

How hard is it to become a flight test engineer?

Becoming a flight test engineer typically requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, aeronautics, or related fields, along with experience in aircraft systems and testing. Many professionals gain skills through a combination of a relevant degree, hands-on experience, and certifications such as FAA pilot or engineer licenses; the role can be technically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols.

How to become a flight test pilot?

To become a flight test pilot, individuals typically need a commercial pilot license with an instrument rating, extensive flight experience, and specialized training in aircraft systems and testing procedures. Many also hold an engineering degree or have experience in aircraft maintenance or aeronautics. Certification from agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or equivalent is often required, along with proficiency in test planning and safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Flight Test jobs in Arizona?

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

What job categories do people searching Flight Test jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Test jobs in Arizona are:

Flight Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,167 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Garmin International, Inc.
Electronics and Appliance Stores • 10K+ employees

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 159 rated electronics manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about Garmin International, Inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time Senior Flight Test Engineer for Garmin's Mesa, AZ location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of complex flight-testing activities including drafting and executing ground and flight test plans, conducting real time data analysis and making real time modification to test parameters for complex test programs. In addition, this role may act as Test Director or Flight Test Lead for complex projects.
Essential Functions
  • Drafts ground and flight test plans and reports for complex test programs including programs with tests not previously conducted
  • Coordinates and executes complex flight tests as part of a flight test crew, including acting as a test director
  • Defines, documents, and maintains complex test aircraft and equipment configurations including multiple test aircraft programs, and coordinates with engineering teams
  • Operates flight test tools, conducts real time data analysis, and makes real time modifications to test parameters
  • Proposes unique viable solutions to issues identified during flight test
  • Prepares complex avionics system installation data for test aircraft
  • Works with certification authorities to resolve certification issues
  • Revises or authors new procedures and makes significant safety contributions
  • Provides reliable solutions to a wide range of difficult problems using sound problem solving techniques
  • Serves as a mentor to less experienced flight test engineers (Flight Test Engineer 1 & 2)

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Aerospace Engineering AND a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
  • Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
  • Demonstrates proficient use of advanced engineering and flight test tools including performing advanced troubleshooting on complex avionics system installations
  • Demonstrates solid and proficient understanding of the FAA certification process and associated regulations
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills

Desired Qualifications
  • Prior flight test experience is ideal
  • Experience with revision control tools, audio/video recording tools, or database tools
  • Previous experience using aviation products
  • Pilot license or aircraft maintenance certification

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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