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Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation Jobs in Washington, DC

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

Washington, DC · On-site

$115K - $215K/yr

Lead and coordinate pre-flight, flight, and post-flight activities, including system configuration, instrumentation, telemetry, data collection and test reports * Analyze ground and flight test data ...

Shield AI

Flight Test Engineer (R5006)

Washington, DC

$115K - $215K/yr

Lead and coordinate pre-flight, flight, and post-flight activities, including system configuration, instrumentation, telemetry, data collection and test reports * Analyze ground and flight test data ...

Electra

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

You'll work closely with the Systems Test Manager and flight test team to stand up a capability ... Troubleshoot instrumentation anomalies in real time during ground and flight test operations.

Electra

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$115K - $144K/yr

Senior Instrumentation Engineer About ElectraAt Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger ... You'll work closely with the Systems Test Manager and flight test team to stand up a capability ...

Protingent

Senior Aerospace Test Engineer

Crystal City, VA · On-site

$153K - $200K/yr

Senior Aerospace Test Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting direct ... instrumentation, and data acquisition requirements for ground and flight testing. * The successful ...

Electra-Aero

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

Stand up an instrumentation capability that supports both ground and flight test. * Lead development of software and hardware in the loop simulation labs. (ex. hybrid propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL ...

Electra

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA · Hybrid

$150K - $180K/yr

Stand up an instrumentation capability that supports both ground and flight test. * Lead development of software and hardware in the loop simulation labs. (ex. hybrid propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL ...

Electra

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA · On-site

$150K - $188K/yr

Stand up an instrumentation capability that supports both ground and flight test.Lead development of software and hardware in the loop simulation labs. (ex. hybrid propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL ...

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Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation information

See Washington, DC salary details

$96.3K

$130.2K

$155.7K

How much do overnight flight test instrumentation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for overnight flight test instrumentation in Washington, DC is $130,248.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,300.00 and $147,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Flight Test Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC are:

Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Overnight Flight Test Instrumentation job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,248 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Lead Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

Electra-Aero

Manassas, VA • On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

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 of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point‑to‑point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.

Lead Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

Supports the instrumentation and testing of our hybrid‑electric Ultra Short aircraft. This is an incredible hands‑on opportunity to support our projects and flight test team.

What You’ll Do
  • Support aircraft Flight Test Instrumentation (FTI) system development, integration, calibration/verification and operation.
  • Manage aircraft data acquisition, telemetry, processing and storage.
  • Work with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to establish instrumentation requirements and maintain a Master Parameter List.
  • Liaise between engineering, technicians and the test organization.
  • Other duties may be assigned.
What You’ll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical, computer engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years’ experience designing, integrating, calibrating and troubleshooting aircraft instrumentation.
  • Experience with data acquisition systems (e.g. TTC, NI, ACRA).
  • Experience with sensor characteristics (range, accuracy, frequency response, etc.)
  • Ability to operate independently in fast‑paced test environment.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with a high‑performance team.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Bonus Points
  • Practical experience with standard avionics communication protocols such as CAN bus and ARINC 429.
  • Experience developing basic software for process automation (C++, Python, etc.)
Travel

25%

What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
  • Free on-site parking

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.

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