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Summer Flight Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

Strong expertise in aircraft flight dynamics, aerodynamics, and handling qualities * Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and C++ programming * Experience with control systems design (Classical, Modern ...

The Opportunity This is a hands-on controls role on a small, fast moving GNC team. You will own ... Analyze flight logs, find root cause, and turn findings into control fixes. * Write and own flight ...

The Opportunity This is a hands-on controls role on a small, fast moving GNC team. You will own ... Analyze flight logs, find root cause, and turn findings into control fixes. * Write and own flight ...

The Opportunity This is a hands-on controls role on a small, fast moving GNC team. You will own ... Analyze flight logs, find root cause, and turn findings into control fixes. * Write and own flight ...

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Summer Flight Controls Engineer information

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$82

$105

How much do summer flight controls engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer flight controls engineer in the United States is $82.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77.40 and $90.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are control engineers in high demand?

Control engineers, including flight controls engineers, are in high demand due to the growth of aerospace, automation, and robotics industries. They often require specialized skills in systems design, control theory, and software tools, making their expertise valuable in various engineering sectors.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior flight controls engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in aerodynamics and control systems, and often working in aerospace or defense industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such high compensation typically requires specialized expertise, leadership roles, and working for large, established companies or in high-cost regions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior flight controls engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in aerospace systems, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in aerospace companies, defense contractors, or senior engineering positions involving specialized skills and leadership responsibilities.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Summer Flight Controls Engineer expect during an internship?

As a Summer Flight Controls Engineer, you can expect to work on projects involving the design, simulation, and testing of flight control systems for aircraft or drones. Typical responsibilities include supporting model development, running hardware-in-the-loop simulations, analyzing flight test data, and assisting with troubleshooting control algorithms. You'll often collaborate with senior engineers, software teams, and test pilots to ensure the systems meet safety and performance standards. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to the aerospace industry's tools and processes, which can be a strong stepping stone for future career growth.

Are flight engineers in demand?

Flight engineers are in demand in the aviation industry, especially for commercial and cargo aircraft that require specialized technical expertise. The role often requires certifications and experience with aircraft systems, and demand can fluctuate based on airline growth and fleet modernization. Overall, qualified flight engineers are considered valuable for maintaining safety and operational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Summer Flight Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Flight Controls Engineer, you need a solid understanding of aerospace engineering principles, control systems, and typically enrollment in a relevant engineering program. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, flight simulation software, and version control systems is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in collaborative and fast-paced project environments. These competencies are crucial for designing and testing reliable flight control systems that ensure aircraft safety and optimal performance.

What is the difference between Summer Flight Controls Engineer vs Summer Avionics Engineer?

AspectSummer Flight Controls EngineerSummer Avionics Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; relevant certificationsBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Aerospace Engineering; certifications may vary
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and integration of flight control systems in aircraftDevelopment and testing of avionic systems and electronic components in aircraft
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace and aircraft manufacturing companiesIn aerospace, defense, and avionics system providers

The Summer Flight Controls Engineer focuses on designing and testing aircraft control systems, while the Summer Avionics Engineer specializes in electronic systems within aircraft. Both roles require similar technical backgrounds and work environments, but their specific responsibilities differ in system focus.

What are Summer Flight Controls Engineers?

Summer Flight Controls Engineers are typically interns or temporary employees who work with aerospace engineering teams during the summer months, focusing on the design, analysis, testing, and improvement of flight control systems in aircraft or spacecraft. Their responsibilities often include assisting with simulations, debugging software, running experiments, and supporting the development of control algorithms that ensure safe and efficient vehicle operation. This role provides hands-on experience and helps students or early-career engineers gain insight into the aerospace industry and the complexities of flight control systems.
More about Summer Flight Controls Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Summer Flight Controls Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Summer Flight Controls Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Controls Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Flight Controls Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Summer Flight Controls Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Summer Flight Controls Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Summer Flight Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $171,051 per year, or $82.2 per hour.
Flight Controls Engineer

Flight Controls Engineer

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

 Flight Controls Engineer  
Job Summary: 
ESAero is seeking an experienced Flight Controls Engineer with fixed wing, rotorcraft, and flight test experience to join our team in San Luis Obispo, CA. The engineer will lead and support the simulation and development of advanced control systems for conventional and unique configurations of aircraft including multi-propulsor eVTOL and CTOL aircraft at all scales (VTOL sUAS to eVTOL manned platforms, research platforms, CTOL Distributed Electric Propulsion aircraft).  This is a multi-functional role that will also require candidates to be involved in all phases of design and development of new platforms collaborating with other engineering disciplines and project personnel. 
Responsibilities and Duties: 

  • Development of flight dynamics simulations ranging from conventional aircraft to complex VTOL with rotor dynamics. 

  • Design, development, and implementation of optimal and adaptive flight controls and guidance laws for reconfigurable aircraft 

  • Development of flight test maneuvers for system verification and identification 

  • System identification in time a frequency domain 

  • Support integration and test of aircraft for flight test 

  • Collaborate closely with aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, software, systems engineering, and flight test teams to ensure successful integration of flight control systems within the overall aircraft architecture. 

  • Actively work on improving processes, methods, and tools for flight control 

  • Conduct peer reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams 

  • Support flight operations during ground and flight test activities, including pre-flight readiness reviews, real-time test monitoring, post-flight analysis, and troubleshooting of flight control system issues. 

  • Participate in safety assessments, failure mode analyses, and system-level trade studies to ensure flight control architectures meet reliability, redundancy, and airworthiness requirements. 

Required Qualifications and Skills: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or equivalent. 

  • 2+ years of flight controls and simulation engineering experience. 

  • Experience in UAS and manned aircraft design 

  • Good understanding of complex aircraft dynamics (aero, structures, control) 

  • Experience simulating non-linear complex aircraft sub-systems and systems 

  • Experience with frequency and time domain system analysis 

  • Control system simulation, implementation, test, and verification experience 

  • Familiarity with implementation of embedded real-time control system 

  • Familiarity with system identification of aircraft from flight test 

  • Fundamental understanding of other disciplines (Aerodynamics, Structures, Electrical Eng., Embedded systems) 

Desired Qualifications and Skills: 

  • Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or equivalent and 

  • Experience with non-linear controls and analysis (adaptive control, neural networks, machine learning) 

  • Experience with implementation of embedded real-time control systems 

  • Experience designing to FAA and Military standards relating to the control system design for aircraft. 

  • Experience with system identification of aircraft from flight test 

  • Experience with Risk Management 

  • Familiarity with FAA and Military standards relating to the control system design for aircraft. 

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

Company Overview 

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel  

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

__________________________________________________________________________ 

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.  
E-Verify participation required for employment.  
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.     
Must be able to pass background check.    
Pay Range: $90,000 – 120,000 Salary Exempt  

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