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Flight Test Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD

$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 ...

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD

$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 ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to work closely as part of the Flight Test team, working with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and to direct ...

DCS CORPORATION

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

Hermeus

Flight Test Technician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$24.75 - $50.60/hr

As a Flight Test Technician, you will be responsible for the testing and validation of aircraft systems, ensuring their performance and safety. This position will collaborate with engineers and ...

DCS CORPORATION

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

Chipton Ross

Flight Test Conductor

Edwards, CA · On-site

$92.58/hr

Job #218668 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Flight Test Conductor for a contract opportunity at Edwards AFB, CA. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE) * Bachelor of Science degree in ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD

$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 ...

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

DCS Corporation

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · 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 ...

AeroTEC Inc.

FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER

Moses Lake, WA · On-site

The Test & Evaluation Department provides expertise in Flight Test Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering and Installation, Test Pilot Support and Telemetry Operations. About the Role The primary ...

SCEYE INC

Flight Test Engineer

Moriarty, NM · On-site

Flight Test Engineer Location: Moriarty, NM Reports to: Chief of Mission Operations Who Are We: Sceye is a high-growth technology company, building the next generation of instant communications ...

DCS Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD

$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 ...

Hermeus

Flight Test Technician

Atlanta, GA

$41.40 - $50.60/hr

As a Flight Test Technician, you will be responsible for the testing and validation of aircraft systems, ensuring their performance and safety. This position will collaborate with engineers and ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is looking for a driven Flight Test DER to support the planning, testing, and certification of our electric CTOL/VTOL fleet. This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot ...

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Flight Test information

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$85K

$115K

$137.5K

How much do flight test jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test in the United States is $114,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $130,000.00 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 much do flight test engineers get paid?

Flight test engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in aerospace hubs or with large defense contractors.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace engineers, especially those working in flight test or with extensive experience in aircraft development, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with specialized skills, advanced certifications, leadership roles, or working in high-cost regions within the aerospace industry.

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 in managerial positions may 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 does a flight tester do?

A flight tester evaluates aircraft performance, safety, and handling by conducting test flights and analyzing data. They work closely with engineers to identify issues and ensure aircraft meet regulatory standards, often using specialized instruments and adhering to strict safety protocols.

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.
More about Flight Test jobs
What cities are hiring for Flight Test jobs? Cities with the most Flight Test job openings:
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Flight Test jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,999 per year, or $55.3 per hour.
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

DCS Corporation

Patuxent River, MD • On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

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. 

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 is required.

Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance. 

GPA of 3.75 or higher required. 

Desired Skills: 

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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