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Flight Test Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Can you see yourself performing and succeeding as a Flight Test Engineer in a dynamic team environment? DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

Salary Range: $84,137 - $120,000 DCS Corp has an exciting potential opportunity supporting the Navy Test Wing Atlantic located at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a Flight Test Engineer. This position ...

Salary Range: $84,137 - $120,000 DCS Corp has an exciting potential opportunity supporting the Navy Test Wing Atlantic located at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a Flight Test Engineer. This position ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

Salary Range: $84,137 - $120,000 DCS Corp has an exciting potential opportunity supporting the Navy Test Wing Atlantic located at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a Flight Test Engineer. This position ...

Salary Range: $84,137 - $120,000 DCS Corp has an exciting potential opportunity supporting the Navy Test Wing Atlantic located at NAS Patuxent River, MD as a Flight Test Engineer. This position ...

* Engineering support to Mission Systems test and evaluation activities including support for flight and lab test planning, coordination, execution, analysis, and reporting activities. * Assess system ...

Engineering support to Mission Systems test and evaluation activities including support for flight and lab test planning, coordination, execution, analysis, and reporting activities. Assess system ...

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$160K - $190K/yr

We are looking for a Flight Test Engineer in support of PMA-231/E-2D program for Naval Test Wing Atlantic. This individual will directly support the E-2D DSSC Global Lightening Integration team ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$160K - $190K/yr

We are looking for a Flight Test Engineer in support of PMA-231/E-2D program for Naval Test Wing Atlantic. This individual will directly support the E-2D DSSC Global Lightening Integration team ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$160K - $190K/yr

We are looking for a Flight Test Engineer in support of PMA-231/E-2D program for Naval Test Wing Atlantic. This individual will directly support the E-2D DSSC Global Lightening Integration team ...

$160 - $190/hr

We are looking for a Flight Test Engineer in support of PMA-231/E-2D program for Naval Test Wing Atlantic. This individual will directly support the E-2D DSSC Global Lightening Integration team ...

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Showing results 1-20

Flight Test information

See Maryland salary details

$82.5K

$111.6K

$133.4K

How much do flight test jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test in Maryland is $111,612.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,100.00 and $126,200.00 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 job categories do people searching Flight Test jobs in Maryland look for?

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

Infographic showing various Flight Test job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,612 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

DCS Corporation

Patuxent River, MD โ€ข On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Salary Range: $60,467 - $90,423

Are you ready to perform hands-on, cutting-edge work in Aviation?

Can you see yourself performing and succeeding as a Flight Test Engineer in a dynamic team environment?

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers are located at the Naval Air Test Center at Naval Air Station Patuxent River Maryland. Full-time T&E positions for current and future Navy/Marine aircraft and stores are available supporting the Navy Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department at Naval Air Station, Patuxent River in beautiful St. Mary's County.

Selected candidates will participate in ongoing flight test operations and receive training and mentoring from experienced DCS and Government engineers across several areas:

  • Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures for Fixed Wing Tactical or Maritime Aircraft
  • Rotary Wing and Small Unmanned Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures
  • Aircraft Propulsion & Subsystems
  • Aircraft Ship Suitability
  • Air Vehicle Stores Compatibility and Ballistics & Weapons Employment

High performing participants may have the potential to attend the Flight Test Engineer course at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.ย 

Essential Job Functions:

The Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department requires full-time engineering support to:

  • Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test and/or evaluate aircraft and aircraft related systems.
  • Review and prepare engineering and technical analyses, reports, change proposals, and other technical documentation.
  • Prepare flight cards for aircraft testing during the development and V&V phases.
  • Prepare and present flight briefings.
  • Prepare and communicate flight test objectives.
  • Develop flight test profiles.

Required Skills:

Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required.

ABET accredited BS Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeromechanical or Mechanical Engineering OR a Masters Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeromechanical or Mechanical Engineering.

Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.ย 

GPA of 3.75 or higher required.ย 

Desired Skills:ย 

Fast learner and able to work in a team environment.

https://careers.dcscorp.com/pages?page=dcsbenefits

Employment Type: Full Time

DCS logo

About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

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