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Flight Test Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JetZero

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA

JetZero is seeking a Senior Flight Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, and analysis of experimental aircraft flight tests supporting upcoming JetZero full scale demonstrator. This role ...

JetZero

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

JetZero is seeking a Senior Flight Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, and analysis of experimental aircraft flight tests supporting upcoming JetZero full scale demonstrator. This role ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

The role involves developing flight test program strategies as well as execution of both development and certification flight tests. The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

The role involves developing flight test program strategies as well as execution of both development and certification flight tests. The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

The role involves developing flight test program strategies as well as execution of both development and certification flight tests. The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, CA

$173K - $219K/yr

The role involves developing flight test program strategies as well as execution of both development and certification flight tests. The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineering Lead

Marina, CA · On-site

$188K - $242K/yr

The role involves developing flight test program strategies as well as execution of both development and certification flight testing. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineering Lead

Marina, CA · On-site

$188K - $242K/yr

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer Lead to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to lead a highly talented team of flight test ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineering Lead

Marina, CA · On-site

$188K - $242K/yr

The role involves developing flight test program strategies as well as execution of both development and certification flight testing. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are ...

Archer

Program Manager, Flight Test

San Jose, CA

$160K - $255K/yr

We are seeking a seasoned Flight Test Program Manager to lead the planning, execution, and certification of our flight test campaigns. This role acts as the critical link between the design ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFlight Test JobsFlight Test Jobs in California

Flight Test information

See California salary details

$83.9K

$113.5K

$135.7K

How much do flight test jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test in California is $113,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How to become a flight test pilot?

To become a flight test pilot, individuals typically need a commercial pilot license with an instrument and multi-engine rating, along with several hundred hours of flight experience. Many also hold an engineering degree or have military flight experience, and must complete specialized flight test training and certification through organizations like the Federal Aviation Administration or equivalent authorities. Strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and experience with aircraft systems are essential.

What does a flight test technician do?

A flight test technician is responsible for preparing, maintaining, and conducting tests on aircraft or aerospace systems to evaluate performance and safety. They work closely with engineers, use specialized tools and equipment, and often follow strict safety protocols and documentation standards during testing procedures.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers, especially those working in flight test or at major defense and aerospace companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level engineers with specialized skills, leadership roles, or working in high-cost regions are more likely to reach this compensation level.

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 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.

What are flight test engineers?

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 popular job titles related to Flight Test jobs in California? For Flight Test jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Flight Test jobs? Cities in California with the most Flight Test job openings:
Flight Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,494 per year, or $54.6 per hour.
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

Anduril Industries

San Clemente, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 74,355 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril plays a crucial role in our mission , ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our team conducts full system level development testing, new production acceptance testing, software validation testing and much more. This position is looking for a highly motivated flight test engineer with emphasis in software/hardware capability development and evaluation for the Ghost sUAS platform. Ghost is a Group 2 autonomous vehicle specializing in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. You will be responsible for the evaluation of the software and hardware capabilities for operational suitability as well as Ghost's integration into the full suite of Anduril systems to complete complex operations.
What you'll do
  • As a Flight Test Engineer you will partner with the Ghost engineering to be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware).
  • Test duties include:
  • Supporting daily flight test operations and campaigns at multiple test locations. Candidate will support and plan test events in support of the product roadmap and production schedule.
  • With guidance, manage and oversee a sound configuration management plan and of test assets in preparation for multiple test campaigns.
  • Manage an inventory plan to keep all assets fully mission capable and ready for test.
  • Prepare for test readiness reviews, safety review boards, and operational test readiness. Create and disseminate test reports that create awareness for all stakeholders on system status in varying test campaigns and/or initiatives.
  • Generate and oversee the execution of test cards, pre- and post-flight briefings, and manage test events with a broad support team (pilots, engineering subject matter experts, senior FTEs, etc.).
  • Collaborate with SMEs and cross functional teams within the business line through development and production testing, reporting of test findings, and test status. This includes adjudication of testing tasks and characterization of issues, observations, and detailing results.
  • Interface daily with hardware and software engineering teams.
  • Collect metrics and report on metrics that highlight product performance, progression, and maturity.
Required Qualifications
  • Educational Background:
    • A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
    • Master's degree in a relevant field is a plus.
  • Aviation Experience:
    • 3-5 years of experience in flight testing, flight test planning, or aviation systems development.
    • Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, or aircraft systems integration is strongly preferred.
  • Flight Test Knowledge:
    • Understanding of flight test principles, including test planning, execution, and data analysis.
    • Familiarity with test card development, safety risk assessments, and test methodology.
  • Technical Aptitude:
    • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to quickly understand new technical concepts and apply them effectively.
    • Ability to assess and mitigate technical risks during flight testing.
  • Communication Skills:
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
    • Capable of clearly documenting test plans, procedures, and results.
    • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams, including engineering, program management, and operations.
  • Regulatory Knowledge:
    • Current or ability to obtain FAA 14 CFR Part 107 certification for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
    • Knowledge of FAA regulations and National Airspace procedures, particularly as they relate to manned and unmanned aircraft operations is a plus.
  • Security Requirements:
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Work Environment Flexibility:
    • Willingness and ability to work extended hours as required.
    • Willingness and ability to conduct field testing in diverse outdoor environments, including exposure to sun, heat, and occasional rain.
    • Comfortable with hands-on work that involves physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and setting up test equipment.
    • Ability to occasionally lift and move objects weighing up to 80 lbs (e.g., drone systems) with appropriate assistance and safety measures.
    • Ability to travel for test planning, execution, and customer engagements.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong software and documentation experience; familiarity with Linux-based operating systems. Experience with GitHub, CircleCI, ssh, bash, and command line.
  • Knowledge and experience with Group 1/2 rotary systems that utilize commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) flight control systems and Ardupilot firmware.
  • Experience working DoD programs.
  • Familiarity with remote operations and ground control stations.
  • Prior experience with military or civilian flight test operations.
  • Direct experience working with UAS platforms or autonomous systems.
  • Test Pilot School experience or equivalent training is highly desirable.

US Salary Range
$112,000-$149,000 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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