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Full Time Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Elroy Air

Flight Test Engineer

Byron, CA · On-site

$123K - $187.50K/yr

The Flight Test Engineer at Elroy Air will drive the development and certification of Chaparral, our autonomous VTOL cargo aircraft reshaping middle-mile logistics. You'll architect and execute ...

Stratolaunch, LLC

Flight Test Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

As a Flight Test Engineer , you will enable development and successful flight testing of Stratolaunch's hypersonic aircraft systems. You will provide effective leadership in the control room as a ...

Elroy Air

Flight Test Engineer

Byron, CA

$123K - $187.50K/yr

The Flight Test Engineer at Elroy Air will drive the development and certification of Chaparral, our autonomous VTOL cargo aircraft reshaping middle-mile logistics. You'll architect and execute ...

Astrion

Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability to Obtain Secret Astrion is seeking an intermediate level Flight Test Engineer to support Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) Director of Test (DT ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$107.40K - $174.05K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes developing detailed ...

Elroy Air

Flight Test Engineer

Byron, CA

The Flight Test Engineer at Elroy Air will drive the development and certification of Chaparral, our autonomous VTOL cargo aircraft reshaping middle-mile logistics. You'll architect and execute ...

MORSE Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Cambridge, MA

$90K - $135K/yr

As Flight Test Engineer at MORSE, you are a critical member of the team taking vehicles from ... MORSE maintains an "open" leave policy that does not restrict exempt, regular full-time employees ...

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 ...

Astrion

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Huntsville, AL STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Ability to Obtain Secret $5000 SIGN ON BONUS Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Flight Test Engineer for the Redstone Test and Engineering Services ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$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 ...

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

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 ...

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 ...

MORSE Corp

Flight Test Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

As Flight Test Engineer at MORSE, you are a critical member of the team taking vehicles from ... MORSE maintains an "open" leave policy that does not restrict exempt, regular full-time employees ...

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How much do full time flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time flight test engineer in the United States is $134,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Flight Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Flight Test Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, physics, or a related field, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience with flight testing. Familiarity with data acquisition systems, flight simulation software, and certification standards like FAA or EASA regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting test results and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate data collection, regulatory compliance, and the safe, efficient development of aircraft systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Full Time Flight Test Engineers during flight testing campaigns?

Full Time Flight Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable weather conditions, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and adhering to strict safety protocols. They must be adept at quickly analyzing data, troubleshooting technical issues on-site, and adapting test plans to evolving project requirements. Effective communication with pilots, engineers, and regulatory authorities is essential to ensure test objectives are met safely and efficiently. These challenges make the role dynamic, requiring flexibility, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills.

What are Full Time Flight Test Engineers?

Full Time Flight Test Engineers are professionals who plan, conduct, and analyze tests on aircraft and aerospace systems to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. They work closely with pilots, engineers, and technical teams to design test procedures, collect data during flight tests, and interpret results to recommend improvements or certify airworthiness. Their role is critical in the development and certification of new aircraft and modifications to existing ones. Full-time positions typically require a background in aerospace or mechanical engineering and strong analytical skills.

What is the difference between Full Time Flight Test Engineer vs Flight Test Pilot?

AspectFull Time Flight Test EngineerFlight Test Pilot
CredentialsEngineering degree, pilot license, flight test certificationsPilot license, flight hours, type ratings
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, aircraft testing facilities, flight test rangesIn-flight testing, aircraft operation
Employer & IndustryAerospace companies, defense contractors, aircraft manufacturersAerospace firms, aircraft manufacturers, military

Full Time Flight Test Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and supporting flight tests from an engineering perspective, while Flight Test Pilots operate the aircraft during testing. Both roles require specialized certifications and work closely within the aerospace industry, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Flight Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Flight Test Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Flight Test Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Flight Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Flight Test Engineer jobs include:
Full Time Flight Test Engineer jobs near you
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

Elroy Air

Byron, CA • On-site

$123K - $187.50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

The Flight Test Engineer at Elroy Air will drive the development and certification of Chaparral, our autonomous VTOL cargo aircraft reshaping middle-mile logistics. You'll architect and execute flight test programs that push the boundaries of autonomous flight systems, working with engineers, pilots, and technicians to validate performance in real-world operations. This role offers the chance to tackle cutting-edge challenges in vertical flight and autonomy while directly impacting how critical supplies reach communities worldwide.
Responsibilities
  • Test Planning: Develop detailed ground and flight test plans, procedures, and test cards for autonomous VTOL aircraft. Define test objectives, parameters, and instrumentation needs while collaborating with engineers to align plans with certification requirements and manage risk assessments.
  • Flight Testing: Conduct flight tests for autonomous systems including navigation, control, cargo handling, and mission autonomy systems. Operate data acquisition systems during flight tests to collect real-time performance data and evaluate system reliability across flight conditions and VTOL/forward flight profiles.
  • Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze and interpret flight test data to evaluate system performance and identify deviations from expected results. Generate timely, comprehensive reports with data summaries, analysis results, and conclusions. Provide actionable recommendations for aircraft design and performance improvements.
  • System Integration and Validation: Participate in system integration testing and validation activities for aircraft subsystems. Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to troubleshoot issues and verify system performance against specifications.
  • Instrumentation and Modeling: Configure, calibrate, and maintain flight test instrumentation systems. Utilize modeling and simulation to predict aircraft performance, comparing simulated predictions with actual flight performance to validate models and improve accuracy.
  • Safety and Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and company policies during flight tests, with particular emphasis on autonomous operations. Maintain compliance with FAA and UAS regulations while participating in safety reviews and risk assessments.

Our Ideal Candidate
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • 4+ years of flight test engineering experience with preference for autonomous systems, VTOL aircraft, or UAS operations
  • Deep understanding of flight test methodologies, aircraft systems integration, and autonomous flight control systems
  • Proficiency in instrumentation, data acquisition, and analysis tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB)
  • Working knowledge of FAA Part 107, proposed FAA Part 108, and other UAS regulations and certification requirements.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with excellent technical communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively in dynamic flight test environments, including outdoor flight test operations and schedules impacted by weather

Bonus Points For
  • Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field
  • 8+ years of experience in flight testing or a related engineering field, with experience in autonomous systems or VTOL aircraft
  • Experience with DOD aircraft programs, and familiarity with military airworthiness processes
  • Experience developing safety cases and risk assessments for novel autonomous aircraft configurations
  • Hands-on experience with flight dynamics modeling and simulation-based test planning
  • Private Pilot's License or higher
  • Certification Experience with DO-178C, DO-254, or similar

What's in it for you
  • Pioneer the future of logistics: You'll help create aircraft systems that have never existed before, directly enabling critical supply delivery, and transforming middle-mile transportation.
  • Shape an emerging industry: As an early team member, you'll help define the autonomous cargo aircraft category and establish new standards for vertical flight logistics.
  • Accelerate your career: Join a fast-growing team where your contributions directly impact company direction, and grow alongside experienced aerospace professionals in a collaborative, learning-focused environment.
  • Work with exceptional talent: Collaborate with a team of kind, brilliant engineers, pilots, and technicians who are passionate about solving hard problems and building groundbreaking technology.
  • Own meaningful equity: Equity package with real upside potential as we scale autonomous cargo operations nationwide.
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Full medical/dental/vision coverage, 401(k) with company matching, generous parental leave, and flexible PTO policy.
  • Flexible work environment: Hybrid work options when not conducting flight operations, with a collaborative office culture that values work-life integration.

$123,000 - $187,500 a year
We strongly encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences-many of our most valuable team members have taken non-traditional paths to aerospace. If you're passionate about autonomous flight and transforming logistics, we want to hear from you.
Ready to help build the future of cargo aviation? Apply today and join a team that's redefining what's possible in autonomous flight.
Please note: This position requires eligibility to access export-controlled technology under U.S. regulations, and any employment offer will be contingent on meeting these requirements.
Elroy Air manages all recruiting activities internally through our People & Places team and does not work with external recruiting agencies unless under written agreement.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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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