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Jet Engine Test Cell Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atec, Inc.

Field Services Representative

Stafford, TX · On-site

Performs repair, installation and modification of Jet Engine Test Cells. Assists with the verification of proper equipment configuration to drawings and specifications for Test Cell facilities and ...

GE Aerospace

Engine Tester - 2nd Shift

Evendale, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Install engine into test cell, all required instrumentation in or out of cell, and replacement ... Has jet engine testing or varied jet engine assembly experience. * Must have a High School ...

FTAI Aviation LLC

Supervisor, ETC Production

Miami, FL · On-site

FTAI) FTAI owns and maintains commercial jet engines with a focus on the Maintenance, Repair and ... JOB OVERVIEW The Engine Test Cell Production Supervisor oversees daily operations and personnel ...

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Jet Engine Test Cell Operator information

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How much do jet engine test cell operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for jet engine test cell operator in the United States is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Jet Engine Test Cell Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Jet Engine Test Cell Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols, troubleshooting complex engine issues under time constraints, and ensuring accurate test data collection. These challenges can be managed through thorough training, adherence to detailed checklists, and close collaboration with engineering and maintenance teams. Operators also benefit from developing strong problem-solving skills and staying up-to-date with the latest testing procedures and equipment updates, which helps ensure both safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Jet Engine Test Cell Operator vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectJet Engine Test Cell OperatorAircraft Maintenance Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical training, certifications in engine testing, and safety protocolsRequires FAA certification, mechanic's license, and specialized aircraft maintenance training
Work EnvironmentTest cells, engine testing facilities, controlled environmentsAircraft hangars, maintenance facilities, airports
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace manufacturing and testing facilitiesCommercial, private, and military aviation maintenance

While both roles involve working with aircraft engines, Jet Engine Test Cell Operators focus on testing and evaluating engines in controlled environments, often during manufacturing or development. Aircraft Maintenance Technicians perform repairs, inspections, and maintenance on aircraft in operational settings. The roles share certifications related to safety and technical skills but differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

What does a Jet Engine Test Cell Operator do?

A Jet Engine Test Cell Operator is responsible for conducting tests on aircraft jet engines in specialized facilities known as test cells. Their job involves operating test equipment, monitoring engine performance, recording data, and ensuring that engines meet safety and performance standards before they are installed in aircraft. They also troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance on testing equipment, and follow strict safety protocols to protect themselves and the equipment. This role is crucial for verifying the reliability and safety of jet engines used in both commercial and military aviation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jet Engine Test Cell Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jet Engine Test Cell Operator, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering principles, along with relevant vocational training or certification in aircraft maintenance. Familiarity with test cell instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and specialized diagnostic tools is typically required. Keen attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators collaborate safely and efficiently. These competencies are vital to ensure accurate engine testing, compliance with safety standards, and reliable performance data for the aviation industry.
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Jet Engine Test Cell Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jet Engine Test Cell Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,045 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Engine Test Methods Lead

Engine Test Methods Lead

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$45 - $61.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 127 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

The Engine Test Methods Lead is responsible for the development, governance, and continuous improvement of all engine testing standards, procedures, and best practices across the organization. This role ensures consistent, repeatable, and high-quality test execution by defining validated methodologies, maintaining documentation control, and driving alignment across engineering, validation, and test operations teams.
This position serves as the central authority for engine test methods, supporting product development, validation, and warranty reduction initiatives through robust, standardized testing practices.
Key Responsibilities:
Standards & Procedure Ownership:
  • Develop, publish, and maintain corporate engine testing standards, procedures, and best practices.
  • Establish standardized test methods for:
    • Durability Validation
    • Mechanical Development Testing
    • Oil Consumption Measurement / Validation
  • Ensure all test procedures are version-controlled, accessible, and traceable.

Methodology Development:
Define test methodologies to ensure:
  • Repeatability and reproducibility across test cells and facilities
  • Alignment with regulatory, internal validation, and program requirements

Develop test definitions including:
  • Test setup requirements
  • Instrumentation standards
  • Data acquisition and validation criteria
  • Pass/fail and exit criteria

Continuous Improvement & Best Practices:
Capture and institutionalize lessons learned from:
  • Test failures
  • Warranty issues
  • Field returns and root cause investigations

Drive continuous improvement of test methods based on:
  • New technologies (e.g., electrification integration, hybrid systems)
  • Emerging failure modes

Lead benchmarking of internal vs. industry best practices.
Cross-Functional Alignment:
Collaborate with:
  • Engine design engineering
  • Validation and reliability teams
  • Engine build and Mobile Engine Test Stand teams
  • Test cell operations team
  • Supplier quality and manufacturing
  • Global Testing Leads within Stellantis

Ensure test methods support design validation plans (DVP&R) and program timing.
Training & Deployment
  • Develop and deliver training for engineers and technicians on test methods and procedures.
  • Support rollout and adoption of new or updated standards across all test facilities.
  • Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support for test execution issues.

Digital Tools & Documentation Systems:
Manage and improve documentation systems (e.g., SharePoint, Microsoft Lists, PLM systems).
Enable structured storage and searchability of:
  • Test procedures
  • Templates
  • Test reports and historical data

Support integration with automated data acquisition and reporting tools:
Typical Deliverables:
  • New and updated engine test standards released
  • Harmonized Engine DVP&R test plan
  • Approved test procedures and templates released in beStandard
  • Test method validation reports
  • Lessons learned / best practice databases updated with new findings
  • Training materials and rollout plans

Success Metrics:
  • Standardization of test methods across all facilities
  • Reduction in test variability and repeat failures through new or updated procedures, best practices and lessons learned implementation
  • Improved correlation between test results and field performance
  • Increased efficiency in test planning and execution
  • Timely updates and deployment of procedures

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or related degree field
  • A minimum of 8 years of experience in Engine Development and/or Validation
  • Understanding of automotive processes such as DFMEA, DVP&R, DFSS, DRBTR, etc.
  • Familiarity with automotive internal combustion engine design, development, and testing
  • Test cell operations and instrumentation experience
  • Understanding of reliability and durability testing (e.g., R90C90 concept)
  • Strong interpersonal communication, team/leadership skills/experience
  • Experience writing and managing technical standards and procedures
  • Critical character traits to ensure success: organizational skills, technical leadership, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail and governance discipline, action oriented, dealing with ambiguity, customer focus

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Masters in Engineering degree with emphasis in engine development, engine validation, control systems, or calibration
  • Experience in advanced engine technologies (turbocharging, hybridization, emissions systems)
  • Experience in developing, writing, and releasing engine validation specifications
  • 10 years or more in design, development, quality, manufacturing, and / or validation of engines or powertrains
  • Experience in Data acquisition systems (e.g., ETAS, AVL, Horiba)
  • Experience in Test planning and scheduling optimization
  • Experience with digital tools (SharePoint, Power Apps, data systems)

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