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Flight Test Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Garmin Ltd.

Flight Test Pilot 3

Salem, OR · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Overview We are seeking a full-time Flight Test Pilot 3 at Garmin's Salem, OR location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of flight test pilot ...

Epic Aircraft

A&P Mechanic - R&D / Flight Test

Bend, OR · On-site

$33 - $53/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO As a member of the Production Flight Test / R&D Department,the A&P Mechanic will assist in any area of Epic PFTor R&D Flight Test as needed. This includes assisting in performing ...

Epic Aircraft

A&P Mechanic - R&D / Flight Test

Bend, OR · On-site

$33 - $53/hr

WHAT YOU'LL DO As a member of the Production Flight Test / R&D Department, the A&P Mechanic will assist in any area of Epic PFT or R&D Flight Test as needed. This includes assisting in performing ...

Overwatch Imaging

Systems and Test Analyst

Hood River, OR · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

We are seeking anaviation-centric Systems & Flight Test Analystto join our team. This isnota traditional help desk or SaaS QA role - this position sits at the intersection offlight operations, sensor ...

Merlin Labs

Staff Engineer, Core Flight Controls

OR · On-site +1

$200K - $265K/yr

The Merlin Pilot autonomy system powers a growing range of aircraft and mission profiles and has been proven through hundreds of autonomous flights from Merlin's global flight test facilities ...

AeroVironment

Electrical Engineer, Sr.

Wasco, OR

$111K - $170K/yr

Supports Flight Test operations, as needed * Troubleshoots complex systems. Documents designs with engineering drawings and written descriptions. Operates computer-assisted engineering and design ...

Merlin Labs

Senior Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$165K - $215K/yr

You've worked in an experimental R&D flight test environment with general civil certified or commercial derivative aircraft and know how to keep safety at the forefront while still moving quickly.

Merlin Labs

Senior Systems Engineer, Integration

OR · On-site +1

$165K - $215K/yr

You've worked in an experimental R&D flight test environment with general civil certified or commercial derivative aircraft and know how to keep safety at the forefront while still moving quickly.

Merlin Labs

Autonomy Software Engineer

OR · On-site +1

$130K - $175K/yr

Contribute to simulation, integration, and flight test activities to validate autonomy software in relevant environments. * Write, test, document and review code according to Merlin's development ...

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Flight Test information

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 Oregon?

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

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

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

Flight Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Flight Test Pilot 3

Salem, OR • On-site

Garmin Ltd.
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 Ltd.external

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a full-time Flight Test Pilot 3 at Garmin's Salem, OR location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of flight test pilot activities including developing ground and flight test plans for complex projects, acting as Pilot in Command during execution of flight tests, authoring certification plans or project level documentation for flight manuals, effectively representing the end user, and working with certification authorities to resolve certification issues.

Essential Functions
  • Acts as Pilot in Command for experimental aircraft with moderately significant changes to certified design and conducts complex, moderate-risk tests
  • May act as Flight Test Project Lead for moderately complex projects
  • Drafts ground/flight test plans for complex test programs including programs with tests not previously conducted
  • Defines operational characteristics for the system under development/test and effectively represents end user of individual products
  • Understands and is able to maintain moderately complex test aircraft configurations and coordinates with engineering teams
  • Analyzes data to assist with development of systems, determines compliance with requirements, and provides certification data
  • Addresses issues with test aircraft and installations including advanced troubleshooting and provides support to aircraft maintenance
  • Identifies/tracks issues during flight test, offers quality solutions, and verifies resolution for moderately complex projects
  • Leverages thorough understanding of aircraft certification process and associated regulations to author certification plans or content for complex projects, including new content
  • Creates project level documentation structure for flight manuals and technical publications intended for use by pilots
  • Serves as an expert in flight operations aspects of systems sufficient to communicate functional hazards and failure effects to safety analysis team
  • Works with certification authorities to resolve certification issues
  • Revises or authors new procedures and makes significant safety contributions to the flight test organization
  • Provides reliable solutions to a wide range of difficult problems using sound problem solving techniques
  • Serves as a mentor to less experienced flight test pilots (Flight Test Pilot 2)
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering AND a minimum of 5 years relevant experience
  • Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
  • Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • 2nd Class FAA Medical Certificate
  • Minimum 1,500 hours total flight time
  • Minimum 200 Flight Test Hours
  • Previous flight test experience
  • 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 certification process and associated regulations
  • Demonstrates strong and effective verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
Desired Qualifications
  • Previous experience in systems engineering or software development
  • Flight Test Pilot DER or ODA Unit Member Qualification
  • Commercial aviation experience is a plus
  • Helicopter pilot qualifications

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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