This job has closed.

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. (ESAero) · 2 months ago

Staff Flight Test Engineer /Flight Test Lead

San Luis Obispo, CA

Full-time

Onsite

Lead/Staff

$140K/yr - $175K/yr

9+ years exp

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. is a growing aerospace company seeking a full-time Staff Flight Test Engineer/Flight Test Lead to oversee and execute all aspects of flight test operations. This role involves leading a multidisciplinary flight test team, coordinating test planning and execution, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations and program goals.

AerospaceManufacturing

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Lead the flight test team in planning, coordinating, and executing flight test campaigns from initial test planning through post-flight analysis and reporting

Develop and manage detailed test plans, procedures, and schedules to meet program objectives

Ensure all flight test operations comply with applicable safety regulations, company policies, and government standards (e.g., FAA, DoD)

Coordinate with engineering, maintenance, program management, and other stakeholders to ensure test readiness and resource availability

Serve as the primary point of contact for flight test activities, internally and externally

Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies to maintain test program integrity and safety

Review and approve test documentation, including test cards, data collection plans, and safety assessments

Analyze flight test data in collaboration with engineers and provide feedback to improve vehicle/system performance

Assist with troubleshooting and root cause investigation of issues observed during flight testing

Develop expert-level knowledge of the systems and aircraft under test

Develop flight manuals and supporting documentation necessary for safe vehicle operation in accordance with established operating procedures

Support training and mentoring of junior flight test personnel

Continuously assess and improve the flight test team’s capabilities, processes, and tools to enhance performance, safety, and efficiency

Other duties as assigned or required

Qualification

Flight test operationsFlight safety protocolsLeadership experienceAerospace EngineeringData analysisFAA certificationsRegulationsProficiency with radio frequenciesCommunicationOrganizational skillsMentoring capabilities

Required

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aviation, or a related technical field

9+ years of experience in flight test operations, with a demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage complex flight test campaigns

Excellent understanding of flight test planning, execution, and data analysis

Proven experience with flight safety protocols and government regulations applicable to flight testing

Excellent communication and organizational skills

Proven leadership capabilities in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment

Preferred

Experience with military flight test programs or military contract operations

Test Pilot School graduate or equivalent test experience (pilot, test conductor, or flight test engineer)

FAA certifications or military equivalent (e.g., Part 107, commercial pilot license, flight engineer ratings)

Knowledge of data acquisition systems and flight test instrumentation

Proficiency with radio frequencies and communications

Benefits

Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.

Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.

Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.

Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.

Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.

Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.

Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.

Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.

Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!