Flight test engineer

Flight test engineer

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or a closely related STEM field.
• Minimum of 15 years of hands-on experience in flight test engineering, encompassing all phases of the test lifecycle.
• Active Top Secret/SCI security clearance is required.
• Demonstrated expertise in defining test requirements, developing test plans and procedures, and executing flight tests.
• Proven ability in flight data analysis and the generation of comprehensive test reports.
• Strong understanding of aircraft systems, avionics, flight controls, and performance analysis.
• Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively.
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in relevant data analysis tools and software (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW).
• Knowledge of FAA and/or military specifications and certification requirements is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of complex flight test programs for various aircraft platforms and systems.
• Develop detailed flight test plans, procedures, and test cards, ensuring clear objectives, performance criteria, and safety standards.
• Manage and oversee ground and flight test events, including range and airspace coordination.
• Instrument test assets and manage data acquisition systems to ensure comprehensive data collection.
• Perform in-depth analysis of flight test data to evaluate aircraft performance, handling qualities, and system functionality.
• Prepare detailed flight test reports, documenting results, highlighting key findings, and providing actionable recommendations.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, flight operations, and program management.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards, regulatory requirements, and program guidelines.
• Identify potential safety risks and technical challenges, and develop mitigation strategies.
• Participate in pre-flight briefings and post-flight debriefings.
• Potentially serve as a Test Director, responsible for the overall execution of flight and ground tests.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or a closely related STEM field.
• Graduate of a military Experimental Test Pilot School or FAA Flight Analyst DER.
• Experience with specific aircraft platforms and mission systems relevant to our programs.
• Familiarity with relevant military standards (e.g., MIL-HDBK-516, JSSG series).
• Experience with temporary modification of test aircraft.
• DAWIA Test and Evaluation certification.
• Experience with mission planning and execution is a plus.