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Flight Test Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware). * Test duties ...

Kelly Services

Flight Test Operator

Pittsburg, CA

UAS Flight Test Operator (I & II), Labs Location: Bay Point, CA for first 2-3 months then Petaluma, CA Contract - 6+ months (possibility for Direct hire based on performance/experience) Openings: 10 ...

Hermeus

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$138K - $187K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer at Hermeus, you will help plan, coordinate, and execute ground and flight test campaigns for advanced high-speed aircraft systems. This role sits at the center of ...

Hermeus

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$138K - $187K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer at Hermeus, you will help plan, coordinate, and execute ground and flight test campaigns for advanced high-speed aircraft systems. This role sits at the center of ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning, execution, reporting, and evaluating the system under test (software and/or hardware). * Test duties ...

Zipline

Senior Flight Test Engineer

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $195K/yr

As a Senior Flight Test Engineer you will lead comprehensive flight test campaigns and integrate automated testing infrastructure into our flight test program. In this role, you will develop a deep ...

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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 Aug 6, 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.

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 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 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 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, with an average salary of $113,494 per year, or $54.6 per hour.

Sr. Flight Test Engineer

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Senior Flight Test Engineer
We are seeking a self-motivated Senior Flight Test Engineer to join our team. The engineer will assist in the multi-functional product development of new designs while collaborating with other engineering disciplines and project personnel. You will play a crucial role in the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). You will work with cross-functional teams to develop test plans, conduct flight tests, and ensure that UAV systems meet performance, safety, and reliability standards. This position requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, a deep understanding of UAV systems, and experience in flight testing. This role involves working on multiple platforms and vehicles, supporting both ground and flight-testing operations.
Responsibilities and Duties:
  • Provide testing and flight-testing support for company projects.
  • Develop and maintain high-quality testing documentation to include detailed test plans that describe objectives, methodologies, safety protocols, and resource requirements
  • Represent testing interests when collaborating with project teams.
  • Work with design engineers, systems engineers, and software developers to define specific test requirements and procedures and develop engineering test strategies for new and existing products.
  • Collaborate with assembly and engineering personnel to test prototype units and ensure proper execution and documentation.
  • Conduct pre-flight inspections and system checks to ensure the readiness of UAVs for testing.
  • Lead or participate in the execution of flight tests.
  • Monitor and analyze flight data in real-time to ensure the achievement of test objectives.
  • Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies to ensure safe operations.
  • Lead post-test debriefs to identify lessons learned and incorporate them into future testing.
  • Work with field service personnel and engineers to create test procedures addressing specific product issues observed in the field.
  • Act as an engineering interface to resolve production test issues.
  • Train personnel in proper testing techniques.
  • Look for improvements throughout the testing process to reduce costs or improve test coverage.
  • Support the creation of system requirements, trade studies, sub-component, and flight test plans.
  • Coordinate with suppliers, internal and external integrated product teams.
  • Provide manufacturing, component test, and ground/flight test support.
  • Investigate and determine root cause of component failures and recommend corrective actions.
  • Develop engineering drawings, schematics, and design specifications.
  • Ensure circuit protection, isolation, redundancy, and fault tolerance for flight systems.
  • Present results through technical drawings, written reports, and oral presentations to customers and senior project management.
  • Mentor and guide junior flight test engineers

Required Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent.
  • 5-8 years of experience in aerospace engineering, with at least 3-5 years in UAV flight testing or a closely related field. Hands-on experience in planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.
  • Experience with power distribution systems theory, design, test, or analysis.
  • Experience with electric motor and controller/inverter theory, design, test, or analysis.
  • Able to work with high voltage (>500V).
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in flight test software and simulation tools.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Understanding of structures, mechanisms, system layout, materials, and processes.
  • Experience with data collection and reduction software (LabView, MatLab).
  • Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Experience with SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM (or similar).
  • Structural or thermal analysis of structures and systems.
  • Part 107 pilot qualified, or ability to obtain
  • US Citizenship Required.

Desired Qualifications and Skills:
  • Master's degree in Aero or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent and/or 5+ years of experience.
  • Familiarity with electronics testing.
  • Experience with digital communication protocols such as SPI, Ethernet, and CAN bus.
  • Experience in UAS design.
  • Familiarity with Military standards for aircraft design and electromagnetic compatibility.
  • Experience with metallic and composite design and analysis.
  • Experience with design for manufacturing and advanced manufacturing processes.
  • Hands-on experience working with machine shops, integrating prototype designs, and conducting validation tests.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Experience with supplier management and procurement (e.g., SOWs, RFPs, vendor management).
  • Familiarity with Risk Management.
  • Ability to work on DoD projects.

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks:
  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day off.
  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!

Company Overview:
Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.
At ESAero, we don't just build products, we engineer solutions that propel
the aerospace industry forward.
**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**
ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.
E-Verify participation required for employment.
All ESAero positions require US citizenship or US resident status.
Must be able to pass background check and drug screening.
Pay Range: $110-$140k Salary Exempt

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