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Vehicle Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flight Test Engineer

Lexington Park, MD ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$84K - $120K/yr

The Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department requires full-time engineering support to: Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test and/or evaluate aircraft and aircraft related ...

Flight Test Engineer

Patuxent River, MD ยท On-site

$82K - $120K/yr

The Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department requires full-time engineering support to: Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test and/or evaluate aircraft and aircraft related ...

The Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department requires full-time engineering support to: Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test and/or evaluate aircraft and aircraft related ...

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Vehicle Test Engineer information

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$74

How much do vehicle test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vehicle Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, experience with vehicle dynamics, and a relevant degree. Familiarity with data acquisition systems, automotive diagnostic tools, and software like MATLAB or CANalyzer is commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting test results and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure accurate testing, compliance with safety standards, and the successful development of reliable vehicles.

What are some common challenges faced by Vehicle Test Engineers during the testing process?

Vehicle Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected system failures, working within tight deadlines, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. They must adapt quickly to changing test requirements and environmental conditions, especially when conducting tests outdoors or on test tracks. Effective communication and collaboration with design, manufacturing, and quality teams are essential to resolve issues efficiently and deliver reliable test results.

What does a Vehicle Test Engineer do?

A Vehicle Test Engineer is responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing tests on vehicles to ensure they meet safety, performance, and reliability standards. They work with various types of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, or specialty vehicles, and use both laboratory and real-world testing environments. Their role often involves collaborating with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to identify issues and recommend improvements. Vehicle Test Engineers also document results and ensure compliance with industry regulations. This position is crucial for ensuring that vehicles are safe, efficient, and ready for consumer use.

What is the difference between Vehicle Test Engineer vs Automotive Test Technician?

AspectVehicle Test EngineerAutomotive Test Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive Engineering or related; certifications like ISTQB or SAETechnical diploma or associate degree; certifications in vehicle systems or testing
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, test tracks, vehicle development facilitiesTesting facilities, repair shops, on-road testing environments
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturers, R&D departments, testing agenciesVehicle service centers, testing companies, manufacturing plants

Vehicle Test Engineers focus on designing and overseeing vehicle testing procedures, analyzing data, and improving vehicle performance. Automotive Test Technicians perform hands-on testing, maintenance, and data collection during vehicle testing phases. Both roles are essential in vehicle development but differ mainly in their responsibilities and level of technical involvement.

More about Vehicle Test Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Vehicle Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Vehicle Test Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Vehicle Test Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Vehicle Test Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Vehicle Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Vehicle Test Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Vehicle Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

DCS Corp

Lexington Park, MD โ€ข On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Salary Range: $60,467 - $90,423

Are you ready to perform hands-on, cutting-edge work in Aviation?

Can you see yourself performing and succeeding as a Flight Test Engineer in a dynamic team environment?

DCS has exciting opportunities for entry-level aerospace engineers to work in a dynamic Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation environment upon conferral of degree. Open positions for flight test engineers are located at the Naval Air Test Center at Naval Air Station Patuxent River Maryland. Full-time T&E positions for current and future Navy/Marine aircraft and stores are available supporting the Navy Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department at Naval Air Station, Patuxent River in beautiful St. Maryโ€™s County.

Selected candidates will participate in ongoing flight test operations and receive training and mentoring from experienced DCS and Government engineers across several areas:

  • Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures for Fixed Wing Tactical or Maritime Aircraft
  • Rotary Wing and Small Unmanned Aircraft Aeromechanics & Structures
  • Aircraft Propulsion & Subsystems
  • Aircraft Ship Suitability
  • Air Vehicle Stores Compatibility and Ballistics & Weapons Employment

High performing participants may have the potential to attend the Flight Test Engineer course at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.

Essential Job Functions:

The Air Vehicle Test and Evaluation Department requires full-time engineering support to:

  • Investigate, analyze, plan, design, develop, implement, test and/or evaluate aircraft and aircraft related systems.
  • Review and prepare engineering and technical analyses, reports, change proposals, and other technical documentation.
  • Prepare flight cards for aircraft testing during the development and V&V phases.
  • Prepare and present flight briefings.
  • Prepare and communicate flight test objectives.
  • Develop flight test profiles.

Required Skills:

Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, U.S. Citizenship is required.

ABET accredited BS Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeromechanical or Mechanical Engineering is required.

Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance.

GPA of 3.75 or higher required.

Desired Skills:

Fast learner and able to work in a team environment.

https://careers.dcscorp.com/pages?page=dcsbenefits


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About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

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