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Uav Flight Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tycho.AI

UAV Flight Test Lead

Cambridge, MA · On-site

As UAV Flight Test Lead, you will plan and own the campaigns that take our aircraft from bench and ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a ...

Tycho AI, Inc

UAV Flight Test Lead

Cambridge, MA · On-site

As UAV Flight Test Lead, you will plan and own the campaigns that take our aircraft from bench and ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a ...

Tycho.AI, Inc.

UAV Flight Test Lead

Cambridge, MA · On-site

As UAV Flight Test Lead, you will plan and own the campaigns that take our aircraft from bench and ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Flight Test Data Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$70 - $95/hr

Design, execute, and evaluate UAS/UAV flight test events * Analyze telemetry, flight logs, and engineering data to assess system performance * Develop scripts and tools to visualize and process test ...

Actalent

Flight Controls Engineer

Bingen, WA

Job Title: Controls Engineer - UAV Flight Dynamics and GNC This role focuses on understanding ... level objectives for UAV platforms. * Support flight testing as required, including pre-test ...

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Uav Flight Test Engineer information

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$43.5K

$134.9K

$204K

How much do uav flight test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav flight test engineer in the United States is $134,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,500.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a UAV flight test engineer?

A UAV Flight Test Engineer is a professional responsible for planning, conducting, and analyzing flight tests of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones. They develop test procedures, monitor UAV performance during flight, and troubleshoot technical issues to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Their work helps validate new UAV designs, systems, or software before they are released for commercial or military use. UAV Flight Test Engineers often collaborate with design, software, and safety teams to improve UAV performance and reliability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a UAV flight test engineer?

To thrive as a UAV Flight Test Engineer, a strong background in aerospace engineering, flight dynamics, and systems integration, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree, is essential. Familiarity with flight data acquisition systems, simulation software, and regulatory certifications such as Part 107 or equivalent is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, accurate, and efficient testing and validation of complex UAV systems in a rapidly evolving field.

What are some common challenges faced by UAV flight test engineers during field testing, and how can they be managed?

UAV Flight Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, airspace restrictions, and ensuring strict compliance with safety protocols during field tests. Managing these challenges requires thorough pre-flight planning, familiarity with local aviation regulations, and effective communication with airspace authorities and team members. Additionally, quick troubleshooting skills and adaptability are essential, as unexpected technical issues can arise during testing. Being proactive and maintaining detailed documentation helps keep tests on track and supports continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Uav Flight Test Engineer vs Uav Systems Engineer?

AspectUav Flight Test Engineer
Required Credentials
Typically requires a degree in aerospace, aeronautical engineering, or related fields; certifications in flight testing or UAV operation are common.
Work Environment
Primarily conducts flight testing in controlled environments, test ranges, or on-site at manufacturing facilities.
Employer & Industry Usage
Employed by defense contractors, aerospace firms, or government agencies focusing on UAV testing and validation.

While Uav Flight Test Engineers focus on conducting and analyzing flight tests to validate UAV performance, Uav Systems Engineers design, develop, and integrate UAV systems. Both roles require aerospace knowledge, but the Flight Test Engineer emphasizes testing procedures and flight operations, whereas the Systems Engineer concentrates on system architecture and integration.

What are popular job titles related to Uav Flight Test Engineer jobs?

For Uav Flight Test Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Uav Flight Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,885 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Flight Test Engineer V/VI

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

Zone 5 Technologies
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Zone 5 Technologiesexternal

$184K - $204K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

We are seeking senior Flight Test Engineers to assemble, certify, and fly groups 1 to 4 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). You will play a crucial role in the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). You will work with cross-functional teams to develop test plans, conduct flight tests, and ensure that UAV systems meet performance, safety, and reliability standards. This position requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, a deep understanding of UAV systems, and experience in flight testing. 

Zone 5 maintains a weekly flight test cadence at test ranges local to the San Luis Obispo, CA area. In addition, there will be occasional flight test demonstration events at both CONUS and OCONUS locations that will require travel to support. Flight testing requires significant time spent outdoors in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities:

Test Planning and Coordination:

  • Develop detailed flight test plans, including objectives, methodologies, safety protocols, and resource requirements. 
  • Collaborate with design engineers, systems engineers, and software developers to define test requirements and procedures.
  • Coordinate with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and standards.

Flight Test Execution:

  • Conduct pre-flight inspections and system checks to ensure the readiness of UAVs for testing.
  • Lead or participate in the execution of flight tests, including piloting UAVs remotely if required.
  • Monitor and analyze flight data in real-time to ensure the achievement of test objectives.
  • Troubleshoot issues that arise during testing and implement corrective actions.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

  • Collect, analyze, and interpret flight test data to assess the performance of UAV systems.
  • Prepare comprehensive test reports documenting results, findings, and recommendations for design improvements.
  • Present findings to engineering teams, management, and external stakeholders.

Safety and Risk Management:

  • Implement and enforce safety protocols during all phases of flight testing.
  • Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies to ensure safe operations.
  • Lead post-test debriefs to identify lessons learned and incorporate them into future testing.

Continuous Improvement:

  • Contribute to the development and refinement of test methodologies and procedures. 
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in UAV flight testing.
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance to team members.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. 
  • 7-10 years of experience in aerospace engineering, with at least 5 years in UAV flight testing or a closely related field.
  • Part 107 pilot preferred.
  • Proven experience in planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.
  • Experience with data acquisition systems, telemetry, and flight control systems.

Skills:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in flight test software and simulation tools.
  • Knowledge of FAA regulations and airworthiness standards for UAVs.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. 

Work Environment:

  • Office based with the ability and willingness to travel up to 50%
  • May include environments in hot, cold, and/or wet conditions.
  • May involve travel to various test locations and working in outdoor environments under various weather conditions. 

Pay Range by Level - 

Level V - $184,000 - $204,000

Level VI - $204,000 - $269,000

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