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Flight Test Jobs in Wichita, KS (NOW HIRING)

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

Wichita, KS

$115K - $215K/yr

Shield AI is seeking an experienced Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and improve ground and flight test operations for a fast-paced next gen aircraft system. You will work closely ...

Shield AI

Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Wichita, KS

$150K - $230K/yr

You will work closely with propulsion engineers, flight test teams, autonomy developers, instrumentation specialists, and safety organizations to define test objectives, assess risk, and deliver the ...

Textron

Flight Mechanic A-AP

Wichita, KS

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

To perform mechanic work and lead other mechanics to prepare aircraft mechanically for flight test and delivery to customer. Flight Mechanic A may be required to perform the duties and essential ...

Beechcraft Aircraft

Flight Mechanic A-AP

Wichita, KS · On-site

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

To perform mechanic work and lead other mechanics to prepare aircraft mechanically for flight test and delivery to customer. Flight Mechanic A may be required to perform the duties and essential ...

Textron

Flight Mechanic A-AP

Wichita, KS

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

To perform mechanic work and lead other mechanics to prepare aircraft mechanically for flight test and delivery to customer. Flight Mechanic A may be required to perform the duties and essential ...

Textron

Flight Mechanic A-AP

Wichita, KS · On-site

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

To perform mechanic work and lead other mechanics to prepare aircraft mechanically for flight test and delivery to customer. Flight Mechanic A may be required to perform the duties and essential ...

SOGECLAIR

Project Management - Integrator Project

Wichita, KS · On-site

$88K - $104K/yr

Project Manager - Experimental Flight Test Overview We are seeking an experienced Project Manager - Experimental Flight Test to support complex aircraft development, avionics integration, and ...

SOGECLAIR

Project Management - Integrator Project

Wichita, KS · On-site

$88K - $104K/yr

Project Manager - Experimental Flight Test Overview We are seeking an experienced Project Manager - Experimental Flight Test to support complex aircraft development, avionics integration, and ...

Textron

Flight Mechanic B-AP

Wichita, KS · On-site

$25.75 - $33.75/hr

Set instruments, test run engines, rig and synchronize throttles, and set stops * Flight Test Support : Address flight test and inspection issues, making necessary adjustments or corrections ...

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Flight Test information

See Wichita, KS salary details

$76K

$102.9K

$123K

How much do flight test jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test in Wichita, KS is $102,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,500.00 and $116,300.00 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 Wichita, KS?

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

What job categories do people searching Flight Test jobs in Wichita, KS look for?

The top searched job categories for Flight Test jobs in Wichita, KS are:

Flight Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test job openings in Wichita, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,879 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

Shield AI

Wichita, KS

$115K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Shield AI is seeking an experienced Flight Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and improve ground and flight test operations for a fast-paced next gen aircraft system. You will work closely across several segment owners of engineering, operations, autonomy, systems integration, product support, and manufacturing.  
What you'll do:
  • Develop, publish, and execute comprehensive flight test plans, procedures, cards, risk assessments, safety, and readiness reviews 
  • Support integration and test of aircraft systems, payloads, comms/data links, software, ground control systems, and mission equipment 
  • Lead and coordinate pre-flight, flight, and post-flight activities, including system configuration, instrumentation, telemetry, data collection and test reports 
  • Analyze ground and flight test data to identify performance trends, anomalies, root causes, and corrective actions 
  • Coordinate with engineering teams to validate requirements, troubleshoot issues, and mature system capabilities 
  • Lead or participate in test range operations, safety briefings, go/no-go decisions, and test setup and logistics  
  • Document test results, lessons learned, anomalies, and recommendations in clear technical reports 
  • Support aircraft maintenance, configuration control, and system readiness 
  • Create and improve flight test processes, tools, data workflows, and operational efficiency 
  • Create and maintain ground and air operating limitations requirements  
  • Travel to test sites, customer locations, and field exercises as required 
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM Degree) 
  • 5-10 years of experience with developmental and/or operational ground and flight test, unmanned/manned aircraft systems, aircraft integration, or aerospace systems engineering 
  • Strong understanding of aircraft systems, flight dynamics, avionics, telemetry, sensors, or control systems  
  • Proven ability to write and execute structured test plans, procedures, and reports 
  • Strong troubleshooting skills in field and/or lab environments 
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work across engineering and operations teams 
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 80% for candidates not based in the Wichita Metro Area, including travel to test sites, ranges, and other field locations
  • Overtime and weekend coverage as required 
  • Active Secret Security Clearance
Preferred qualifications:
  • 10+ years of experience with developmental and/or operational ground and flight test, unmanned aircraft systems, aircraft integration, or aerospace systems engineering 
  • Experience in Group 4-5 UAS and/or fighter type capability or similar weapons systems 
  • Familiarity with FAA, DoW, and test range flight operations 
  • Experience with autonomy, navigation, mission planning, and Command-and-Control (C2) systems 
  • Hands-on experience with aircraft maintenance, avionics integration, payload integration, and ground support equipment  
  • Experience with telemetry systems, flight and data logs, sensor data, datalinks, and RF systems 
  • Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or crewed aviation experience 
  • Proven Mission Control Room experience using Integrated Analysis & Data System (IADS) or similar development FTI display system  
  • Experience leading or supporting developmental flight test campaigns from design through planning and execution to include reporting 
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is practical, detail-oriented engineer who is comfortable in control rooms, hangar/maintenance areas, and office type environments. You can write a detailed test plan, troubleshoot hardware and software at a test site, analyze flight data, and communicate clearly under operational pressure. You are safety-minded, have high technical acumen, and motivated by building and validating advanced and complex aircraft systems 
$115,000 - $215,000 a year
 
#LI-AA1
#LD

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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