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Test Flight Data Acquisition Systems Operator Jobs

Enigma Aerospace

Aeronautical Test Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site +1

... acquisition, and telemetry systems; validate calibration and data integrity. * Analyze post-flight ... Interest in operating at the boundary of software and hardware in a fast-paced startup. * Knowledge ...

Archer

Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Design, install, and maintain the data acquisition system system for flight test aircraft. * Work with internal customers and vendors to solve instrumentation and measurement related challenges.

Archer

Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

We are designing, manufacturing, and operating an all-electric aircraft that can carry four ... Design, install, and maintain the data acquisition system system for flight test aircraft. * Work ...

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How much do test flight data acquisition systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for test flight data acquisition systems 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 Test Flight Data Acquisition Systems Operators?

Test Flight Data Acquisition Systems Operators are specialized technicians responsible for setting up, monitoring, and maintaining data acquisition equipment during aircraft test flights. They ensure that sensors and recording systems accurately capture vital information such as speed, altitude, engine performance, and structural loads. This data is critical for assessing aircraft safety, validating performance, and supporting engineering analysis. Operators also troubleshoot equipment, verify data integrity, and assist engineers in interpreting test results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Test Flight Data Acquisition Systems Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Test Flight Data Acquisition Systems Operator, you need a strong background in electronics, aerospace engineering, or a related field, along with experience in data acquisition and instrumentation. Familiarity with data acquisition hardware/software (such as National Instruments or Dewesoft), telemetry systems, and relevant certifications like an FAA or EASA license is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure accurate data collection, safety, and seamless integration with flight test teams during high-stakes testing environments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Test Flight Data Acquisition Systems Operator?

A Test Flight Data Acquisition Systems Operator is primarily responsible for configuring, monitoring, and maintaining data acquisition systems during flight tests. Daily tasks often include setting up instrumentation, ensuring accurate data collection, troubleshooting technical issues, and validating the integrity of the recorded flight data. Operators also collaborate closely with flight test engineers, pilots, and maintenance teams to support test objectives and report findings. This role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently in a dynamic, safety-focused environment.
Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer (R5009)

Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer (R5009)

Shield AI

Mundelein, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed deep-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include the V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, Hivemind Enterprise, and the Hivemind Vision product lines. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the 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:
Shield AI is seeking a highly capable Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer to support the development, integration, and execution of instrumentation systems for X-BAT, the world’s first autonomous VTOL jet aircraft. In this role, you will design, install, validate, and maintain data acquisition systems essential to aircraft-level testing, safety, and mission success. 
 
The Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer is responsible for ensuring high-quality, reliable data capture across propulsion, structural, avionics, and autonomy systems. This engineer works closely with Flight Test, Systems Engineering, Avionics, Autonomy, and Safety teams to ensure instrumentation supports rigorous test objectives and enables rapid, data-driven iteration. 
 
This is a hands-on, field-focused role that requires strong technical depth, disciplined execution, and the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic test environment. 
What you'll do:
  • Design, integrate, and maintain flight test instrumentation systems including sensors, data acquisition hardware, telemetry links, harnessing, and ground station interfaces. 
  • Develop instrumentation architecture, sensor selection plans, wiring diagrams, and installation documentation in accordance with engineering standards. 
  • Support installation and calibration of sensors such as strain gauges, accelerometers, pressure transducers, temperature sensors, current/voltage taps, and position measurement devices. 
  • Configure and validate data acquisition systems including signal conditioning, synchronization, sampling rates, and data integrity verification. 
  • Perform pre-flight and post-flight data checks, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and traceability of all captured data.  
  • Troubleshoot instrumentation issues, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions under tight test timelines.
  • Collaborate with Flight Test teams to define instrumentation requirements, test plans, and safety considerations. 
  • Manage instrumentation inventories, spares, tools, and calibration records 
  • Support field deployments, remote test campaigns, and static engine/hover test operations. 
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of instrumentation processes and documentation. 
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field.  
  • 2+ years of experience in flight test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, or related hardware integration roles.  
  • Hands-on experience installing and configuring sensors, DAQs, wiring harnesses, and telemetry systems.  
  • Strong understanding of instrumentation standards, signal conditioning, sampling theory, and data synchronization.   
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, electrical schematics, and system architectures.  
  • Proficiency with instrumentation tools and software (e.g., NI, Dewesoft, HBM, ICS, telemetry systems).  
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and the ability to operate in a fast-paced test environment.  
  • Excellent communication and documentation capabilities.  
  • Ability to support extended travel and remote test deployments as required. 
Preferred qualifications:
  • Experience with developmental aircraft, flight test environments, or experimental test programs. 
  • Familiarity with IRIG time standards, PCM, Ethernet-based DAQ systems, and avionics data buses (ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, CAN, Ethernet). 
  • Familiarity with Curtis Wright DAS Studio and IADS software. 
  • Experience applying strain gauges, thermal instrumentation, or structural measurement sensors. 
  • Background in propulsion or structural testing, including engine run and hover test instrumentation. 
  • Experience with environmental sealing, harness fabrication standards, and EMI/EMC considerations. 
  • Master’s degree or higher in a related technical discipline. 
#LI-JM1
#LE

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. 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.