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Full Time Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flight Test Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$105K - $180K/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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$102K - $124K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands ...

Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret CERTIFICATION: TRAVEL: as needed Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - SME for the TMAS2_96TW Contract, supporting the ...

The Flight Test Engineer makes sure every Icarus flight produces clean, trustworthy engineering data. You build the test cards and criteria, oversee their execution in the field, jump in on parameter ...

Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret CERTIFICATION: TRAVEL: as needed Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - SME for the TMAS2_96TW Contract, supporting the ...

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an ...

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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Hagerstown, MD ยท On-site

$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 ...

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an ...

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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Hagerstown, MD ยท On-site

$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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA ยท On-site

$112K - $149K/yr

As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning ... Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are ...

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an ...

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended to identify and engage qualified candidates for anticipated future openings. Submission of an ...

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 ...

Flight Test Engineer

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

As a flight test engineer, under minimal supervision, you will be responsible for test planning ... Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are ...

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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 Jul 12, 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:

Flight Test Engineer

Mach Industries

Huntington Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$105K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

About Mach Industries
Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.
Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.
The Role
Mach develops UAS platforms in various stages of flight test development. 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 on generating and executing test plans. Responsibilities will include the development of test CONOP planning, procedures, test reviews, safety analysis, test preparations, and post-flight test reviews. Testing is conducted on private and DoD ranges, and will require out-of-state and possibly OCONUS travel on occasion. This person will be in a prime position to help build the future flight team as products and operations scale over the next year.
Key Responsibilities
  • Central coordination for flight test operations.
  • Inform the engineering team on key requirements for systems checks, data systems etc.
  • Be a driving force in building out test infrastructure at primary test sites and outfitting test equipment, GCS etc.
  • Conduct/lead team through testing workflow, including test planning preparations, readiness reviews, dry runs, day of test, and post-test reviews.
  • Keep the product development team informed of all requirements.
  • Help construct program flight test campaigns with system, GNC, and energetics engineers.
  • Coordinating and planning of flight test demos.
  • Technical advisor on test operations.
  • Perform safety analysis and maintain company safety policies.

Required Qualifications
  • Engineering degree required unless significant relevant experience can be demonstrated.
  • Minimum of 5 years in related aerospace with preferably UAS flight test engineering.
  • Multi-talented across overall test ops, understanding of flight test development campaigns and helping to lead the engineering team on requirements.
  • Self led and passionate about responsibility to be a key contributor in building flight test capability.
  • Willing to be in the field regularly for 1-3 days.
  • Willing to travel to various test ranges.
  • Good written communication to write briefs, test reports, and formalize test forms/ processes.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with mission planner and other GCS software is a plus.
  • Willingness to travel internationally.
  • Holds private pilot license or part 107.
  • Private pilot, R/C aircraft nut, loves anything to do with aviation.
  • Good candor in high-pressure situations.
  • Highly organized and good with data collection and storage.
  • Not phased by being in the field somewhat regularly.

Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!