Test Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Flight Test Engineer

About Electra:

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 matter at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role:

Electra is seeking a Flight Test Engineer to support the development of our hybrid-electric Ultra Short aircraft. As a startup company, Electra is at an early stage, so this position requires someone versatile who is not afraid to work hard and move fast. As the company will evolve and grow with time, so will this position. This is an incredible "hands-on" opportunity to support our projects and flight test team.

What You'll Do:

• Support flight test operations for the Electra EL-2 aircraft, including all aspects of flight test instrumentation, planning, execution, and data review.
• Lead flight test activities either in Telemetry, or onboard experimental aircraft.
• Collaborate with engineers, test pilots, and maintenance team to accomplish test objectives safely and efficiently.
• Draft and maintain aircraft operational documentation including limitations and the flight manual.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of flight test tools and processes.
• Review FAA regulations and test requirements to draft test plans and associated hazard analyses for the Electra EL-9 aircraft.
• Support the development of a flight test instrumentation plan for the Electra EL-9 aircraft.
• Other duties as assigned.

What You Bring:

• B.S. in Aerospace Engineering (or related STEM discipline).
• 3+ years of experience leading crewed experimental flight test operations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Class 3 medical certificate.
• Working knowledge of fixed wing flight test techniques.
• Familiarity with aircraft systems, operations and instrumentation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent organization and communication skills.

Bonus Points:

• Experience with Fly-by-wire and HV electrical systems.
• Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.
• Familiar with applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR Part 23) and operational rules.
• Experience with MATLAB / Simulink.
• Licensed Pilot Preferred.
• US Person (Citizen or Green Card) preferred.

Location: Corporate headquarters in Manassas, VA. This position requires an onsite presence.

Travel: <25%

Compensation

$102,000 – $124,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 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.

Compensation and Benefits

In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.

Background & Drug Screening

Successful completion of a background check and/or drug screening prior to starting work may be required for this position.

Commitment

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.

Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.

Electra is an E-Verify employer.