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Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation Jobs in Texas

SpaceX

Instrumentation Fitter

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

Experience using test instrumentation and control components ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: * Valid driver's license * Flight hardware typically is built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is ...

SpaceX

Instrumentation Fitter - 2nd Shift

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

Experience using test instrumentation and control components ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: * Standard hours for this position are 1:30 PM - 12:30 AM * Valid driver's license * Flight hardware is typically ...

Firefly Aerospace

Test Engineer, Propulsion IV

TX · On-site

Lead the integration, instrumentation, and execution of hotfire tests for the Spectre propulsion engine and related liquid propulsion systems * Develop comprehensive test plans, procedures, and ...

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Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation information

What is the difference between Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectOvernight Flight Test InstrumentationFlight Test Engineer
CredentialsTechnical certifications, instrumentation trainingEngineering degree, pilot certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAircraft, test facilities, night shiftsAircraft, test sites, daytime and night shifts
Industry UsageAircraft testing, instrumentation setupDesign, plan, and analyze flight tests

Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation focuses on installing, maintaining, and operating testing equipment during overnight aircraft tests, ensuring data collection. Flight Test Engineers design and oversee flight test plans, analyze data, and improve aircraft performance. While both roles work closely in aircraft testing, the instrumentation role emphasizes technical setup and data collection, whereas the engineer role involves planning and analysis.

What is an overnight flight test instrumentation specialist?

An Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation specialist is a professional responsible for installing, maintaining, and monitoring the instruments and sensors used in aircraft during overnight flight test operations. These specialists ensure that all data acquisition systems are functioning properly to collect accurate flight performance data. Their work typically involves troubleshooting equipment, calibrating sensors, and preparing detailed reports on system status. They often work during nighttime hours to support flight test schedules and minimize disruptions to regular flight operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an overnight flight test instrumentation engineer?

To succeed in Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation, you need strong knowledge of electronics, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation principles, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Experience with test equipment, sensor calibration, data logging software, and familiarity with industry certifications such as FAA or EASA standards are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for addressing real-time issues during overnight shifts. These competencies ensure accurate data collection and analysis, contributing to aircraft safety and successful test program outcomes.

What are the main challenges faced when working overnight shifts in flight test instrumentation, and how can they be managed?

Working overnight in Flight Test Instrumentation can present unique challenges such as maintaining alertness during irregular hours, coordinating with daytime engineering teams, and troubleshooting unexpected technical issues with limited onsite support. Success in this environment often requires strong communication for effective shift handovers and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Employers typically provide resources like shift differentials, break schedules, and access to remote support to help manage fatigue and ensure safety and accuracy in data collection.
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Instrumentation jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Flight Test Instrumentation jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation job openings:
Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation jobs near you

Senior Propulsion Test Engineer (R4640)

Shield AI

Dallas, TX

$113K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:

We are seeking a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer to lead the planning and execution of propulsion test campaigns for the X-BAT platform. This role is responsible for end-to-end ownership of propulsion test activities—from test architecture and test stand design through execution, data analysis, and iteration - supporting a low-bypass turbofan-powered Group 5 UAV.

You will serve as the focal point for propulsion testing, ensuring test results accurately characterize engine and subsystem performance, de-risk integration, and inform flight readiness decisions. This role is hands-on, data-driven, and highly cross-functional - requiring close collaboration with propulsion engineers, design engineers, technicians, controls, airframe, and flight test teams.

What you will do in this role:
  • Own the propulsion test program from requirements through execution, data review, and test-to-flight handoff.
  • Architect, design, analyze, and build test stands and fixtures for engine, fuel, oil, bleed air, and TVC-related testing.
  • Define and implement instrumentation plans, DAQ architecture, calibration methods, and test procedures.
  • Lead ground test campaigns, including performance mapping, transient response, and edge-of-envelope testing.
  • Analyze test data to validate performance, identify anomalies, and drive design or control updates.
  • Partner with propulsion REs and controls engineers to ensure test coverage closes risk against CONOPS and mission profiles.
  • Drive root cause investigations for test anomalies and implement corrective actions.
  • Author test plans, reports, and readiness reviews; represent propulsion test in design and flight readiness reviews.
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience in propulsion or engine testing in aerospace development environments.
  • Hands-on experience with engine test cells, test stand design, instrumentation, and DAQ systems.
  • Strong understanding of gas turbine engine performance, transients, and test methodologies.
  • Proficiency in Python (or similar) for data reduction, automation, and analysis workflows.
  • Experience supporting flight test readiness and test-to-flight transitions.
  • U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience testing low-bypass turbofan engines or propulsion subsystems on UAVs or tactical aircraft.
  • Familiarity with REFPROP, GFSSP, ANSYS, or FEA to support test interpretation and correlation.
  • Experience designing structural test fixtures, load paths, thermal management, and safety systems for hot-fire environments.
  • Background in controls integration, actuator testing (e.g., TVC), and transient characterization.
  • Experience operating in a test-driven, hardware-centric aerospace development environment.
  • M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
#LI-MS
#LC

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

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.