ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lead Flight Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Skyryse

Flight Test Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - CAMARILLO, CA We are advancing flight control and automation technology ... Plan, organize, and lead data collection ground tests to support flight test campaigns. * Conduct ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a team of flight test engineers. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are looking for an individual who can work ...

General Atomics

Flight Test Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

We have an opportunity for an experienced Flight Test Engineer to join our Flight Operations Team in Palmdale, California. Located at our Flight Operation Facility in Palmdale, CA, this Flight Test ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a team of flight test engineers.Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are looking for an individual who can work with ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$173K - $219K/yr

The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a team of flight test engineers. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are looking for an individual who can work ...

Joby Aviation

Staff Flight Test Engineer

Hollister, CA

$173K - $219K/yr

The successful candidate may be given an opportunity to lead a team of flight test engineers. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are looking for an individual who can work ...

Next Matter

Flight Test Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

Flight Test Engineer As a Flight Test Engineer at Castelion, you will be working within the Test ... Desire and experience questioning assumptions in ways that lead to breakthrough ideas that are ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsLead Flight Test Engineer JobsLead Flight Test Engineer Jobs in California

Lead Flight Test Engineer information

See California salary details

$41.9K

$122.2K

$178.1K

How much do lead flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead flight test engineer in California is $122,163.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,200.00 and $133,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead flight test engineer?

A Lead Flight Test Engineer is a professional responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing the testing of aircraft to ensure they meet safety and performance standards. They work closely with pilots, engineers, and regulatory authorities to design test procedures, analyze flight data, and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise during tests. This role typically involves both hands-on technical work and leadership responsibilities, ensuring that all testing is conducted safely and efficiently. Lead Flight Test Engineers play a critical role in the development and certification of new aircraft and aircraft systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead flight test engineer?

To thrive as a Lead Flight Test Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, flight test principles, and experience with test planning and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and safety regulation compliance—often verified through certifications like FAA DER or equivalent—is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication set top performers apart in coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing test projects. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and accurate evaluation of aircraft systems, which is critical for certification and operational readiness.

How does a lead flight test engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a flight test campaign?

As a Lead Flight Test Engineer, you will regularly collaborate with pilots, avionics specialists, maintenance crews, and data analysts to ensure that flight tests run smoothly and safely. Coordination involves developing test plans, conducting pre- and post-flight briefings, and troubleshooting issues that arise during testing. Effective communication and leadership are essential, as you must align goals, delegate tasks, and synthesize input from diverse team members to achieve successful test outcomes. This collaborative environment provides valuable experience in cross-functional teamwork and project management.

What is the difference between Lead Flight Test Engineer vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectLead Flight Test EngineerFlight Test Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, certifications like FAA or EASA, extensive flight test experienceBachelor's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, some certifications, less extensive experience needed
Work EnvironmentLeading test teams, coordinating test plans, overseeing safety protocolsAssisting in flight tests, executing test procedures, collecting data
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aerospace manufacturers, defense contractorsAircraft manufacturers, aerospace research centers, military agencies

The main difference between a Lead Flight Test Engineer and a Flight Test Engineer lies in responsibility and experience. The Lead Flight Test Engineer oversees test planning, team coordination, and safety, requiring more experience and leadership skills. The Flight Test Engineer primarily assists with executing tests and data collection. Both roles are essential in aerospace testing but differ in scope and seniority.

What cities in California are hiring for Lead Flight Test Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lead Flight Test Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Lead Flight Test Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,163 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer

Camarillo, CA • On-site

Skyryse
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Skyryseexternal

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Job description

We're on a mission to make the skies safe and accessible for everyone. Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during standard flight operations, inclement weather, and emergencies. Our SkyOS solution, rigorously and relentlessly developed by skilled and dedicated Skyrysers, is the key to unlocking this unbounded future. Our technology, combined with our commitment to saving lives and our passion for aviation, will empower everyone to experience the joy and freedom of flight.
FLIGHT TEST ENGINEER - CAMARILLO, CA
We are advancing flight control and automation technology through rigorous and continuous flight testing. In this role, you'll design and refine detailed test plans and procedures, prioritizing flight safety at every stage. Working closely with our flight test team, you'll manage and operate flight instrumentation-often of your own design-to ensure accurate, successful test execution.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop Go/NoGo parameters and conduct post-flight data analysis; collaborate with the aircraft integration team to ensure instrumentation is safe for flight.
  • Support flight squawks creation and lifecycle ensuring proper documentation and closure.
  • Plan, organize, and lead data collection ground tests to support flight test campaigns.
  • Conduct thorough risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards associated with test flights, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards.
  • Support the execution of successful flight operations by communicating, setting test priorities and communicating them effectively.
  • Run flight test planning, flight readiness reviews, flight briefs/debriefs and post flight analysis using MATLAB / Simulink.
  • Complete all required documentation in accordance with established company procedures.
  • Analyze flight test data using advanced software tools to identify trends, anomalies, and potential issues; ensure accuracy in data collection methods and instrumentation calibration.
  • Work closely with GNC and Flight Test teams to support test campaigns.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's of Science in aerospace engineering, systems engineering or other engineering discipline.
  • 4+ years of professional working experience.
  • Experience working with flight test and Safety Management Systems.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Master's or PhD degree in aerospace engineering, systems engineering or other aerospace related field.
  • 6+ years experience as a Flight Test Engineer for civil or military aircraft with rotorcraft development preferred.
  • Experience writing flight test plans as part of a FAA certification program and generating reports from analyzed flight test data.
  • Proficient in analyzing and plotting flight test data using Matlab or similar tools and then generate appropriate formal report.
  • Understanding of flight instrumentation and signal processing techniques.
  • Passion for aviation and flight testing.
  • Previous experience working with handling qualities rating scale (HQRS).
  • Previous experience in rotorcraft helicopter flight characteristics and flight testing techniques.

WHY SKYRYSE?
  • The opportunity to change the world through improving aviation safety and accessibility.
  • Salary: $120,000 - $150,000
  • Valuable stock option plan.
  • Heavily subsidized medical, dental and vision plans.
  • Full-time employees are eligible for 20 days of paid time off (PTO) and 5 sick days annually. PTO and sick days must be used in accordance with Company policy.
  • A company with an ambitious vision, a dynamic work environment, and a team of smart, motivated, and fun to work-with colleagues!

The posted salary range reflects the potential base pay for this role, adjusted to account for varying geographic markets. Final compensation will be based on factors such as your location, job-related skills, experience, and internal alignment, including equity and benefits.
WE WELCOME ALLSkyryse is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Employment is contingent upon confirmation of authorization to export in accordance with the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security Export Administration Regulations.
NO AGENCY CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED.

Apply