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Full Time Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

JetZero

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

JetZero is seeking a Senior Flight Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, and analysis of experimental aircraft flight tests supporting upcoming JetZero full scale demonstrator. This role ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of ...

Ursa Major

Flight Test Engineer

Berthoud, CO

$90K - $110K/yr

As a Flight Test Engineer, you'll serve as the on-site technical authority regarding Ursa Major ... Classification: Full-time Exempt Benefits Include: (Please note, Interns are not eligible for ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA

$173K - $219K/yr

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Staff Fight Test Engineer to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to be a technical leader in a broad scope of the ...

Mach Industries

Flight Test Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

This position will specialize in flight test engineering, operations, and testing of developing UAS aircraft. You will report directly to the head of flight ops and work with system engineering leads ...

Electra Aero, Inc.

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air ...

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air ...

Ursa Major

Flight Test Engineer

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

As a Flight Test Engineer, you'll serve as the on-site technical authority regarding Ursa Major ... Classification: Full-time Exempt Benefits Include: (Please note, Interns are not eligible for ...

WGS SYSTEMS LLC

Flight Test Engineer

Hagerstown, MD

$90K - $140K/yr

WGS Systems, LLC, is looking for Flight Test Engineers with experience and background in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems flight testing. Primary work activities will take ...

WGS SYSTEMS LLC

Flight Test Engineer

Hagerstown, MD

$90K - $140K/yr

Wellness resources WGS Systems, LLC, is looking for Flight Test Engineers with experience and background in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems flight testing. Primary work ...

Astrion

Basic Flight Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL

Huntsville, Alabama JOB STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Secret TRAVEL: As Needed Astrion is seeking a basic level Flight Test Engineer to support Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) Director of Test (DT ...

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All JobsFull Time Flight Test Engineer Jobs

Full Time Flight Test Engineer information

See salary details

$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

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

As of Jun 21, 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 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 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 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

LTA Research

Sunnyvale, CA

$85K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

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 flight test efforts for our revolutionary large rigid airship flying from Moffett Field in Sunnyvale, CA. 

We're looking for an engineer who is excited to execute flight test 'firsts' and to lay the foundation for enabling safe, efficient flight testing. The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans & test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship limitations, lead ground & flight tests, perform data analysis, write test reports, and document test results. This position will also contribute to the development and review of the Airship Flight Manual (AFM) and other operational documents by collaborating with multiple teams to provide pertinent information.

Responsibilities
  • Produce test documentation such as test plans, hazard analyses and test cards.
  • Assist with the preparation of operational documentation.
  • Participate in test readiness and safety reviews.
  • Collaborate with engineers, test pilots, and operations team to accomplish test objectives safely and efficiently.
  • Lead test briefings/debriefings, and coordinate with all support groups.
  • Direct flight test operations either onboard an airship or from the telemetry room.
  • Perform post-flight data analysis as required.
  • Prepare flight test reports and communicate non-conformance items and 'squawks'.
  • Other duties may be assigned.
  • Travel - Occasional.  
Qualifications
  • 1-3+ years of experimental flight test experience.
  • Bachelor's or higher degree in an applicable engineering field.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Class 3 medical certificate (or better).
  • Familiarity with aircraft systems and operations.
  • Proficiency in test planning, and drafting THAs and aircraft operating procedures.
  • Ability to learn and to lead the development and execution of complex flight tests.
  • Strong technical and analytical skills, as well as attention to detail.
  • Understanding of flight test instrumentation.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Graduate of a recognized test pilot school.
  • Private Pilot or higher rating.
  • Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools.
  • Aptitude with Python coding.
  • Experience with first flight efforts of experimental aircraft.
  • Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems.
  • Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft performance.
  • Understanding of human factors and cockpit design.
  • Experience in FAA certification test programs and knowledge of FARs.
What We Offer!
  • Relocation assistance
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
  • Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
  • Parental leave
  • Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
  • 401(k) matching up to 6%
  • Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
  • Monthly wellness stipend
  • Monthly cell phone stipend
  • Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
  • Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
  • An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields
Compliance Requirements
  • Criminal background check clearance
  • Drug test clearance wherever applicable
  • Applicant must be able to obtain a NASA Moffett Federal Airfield AOA Badge
$85,000 - $140,000 a year
 
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LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.

Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.
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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