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Flight Test Engineer Jobs

Engineers who ensure drones are safe, reliable, and perform to specification. A critical role in the development and certification of UAV systems.

Open roles
2
Hiring companies
2
View 2 live roles → Get an alert

Flight Test Engineers play a pivotal role in the drone industry, ensuring that unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are safe, reliable, and meet performance standards. These engineers design and execute rigorous test plans to validate the performance of drones, from initial prototypes to final certification. They work closely with design teams, regulatory bodies, and operational staff to identify and resolve any issues that arise during testing. Whether in scaleups developing cutting-edge UAV technology or larger consultancies providing comprehensive testing services, Flight Test Engineers are at the forefront of ensuring that drones are ready for real-world deployment.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Flight Test Engineer

A typical week for a Flight Test Engineer is a mix of planning, execution, and analysis, with a focus on safety and performance.

  1. 01
    Conduct pre-flight checks and prepare test plans.
  2. 02
    Execute flight tests according to predefined protocols.
  3. 03
    Analyse data collected during tests to identify issues.
  4. 04
    Collaborate with design and operations teams to address findings.
  5. 05
    Document test results and prepare reports for stakeholders.
  6. 06
    Stay updated on regulatory changes and industry best practices.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 3 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Risk Assessment
67%
Flight Test Engineering
67%
Regulatory Compliance
67%
Aerospace Engineering
33%
Mechanical Engineering
33%
Electrical Engineering
33%
Systems Engineering
33%
Flight Test
33%
Test Instrumentation
33%
Data Acquisition
33%
Telemetry
33%
MATLAB
33%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for flight test engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Flight Test Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the preparation and execution of flight tests, with a focus on learning and supporting senior engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Flight Test Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Lead the design and execution of flight test plans, ensuring all safety and performance criteria are met.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Flight Test Engineer

    5–8 yrs

    Oversee multiple test programmes, manage a team of engineers, and provide expert guidance on complex issues.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Flight Test Engineer

    8+ yrs

    Strategise and lead the overall flight test programme, working closely with senior management and regulatory bodies.

Pathway

How to become a Flight Test Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Entry-Level Engineer

    Start as a Junior Flight Test Engineer, learning the basics of flight testing and supporting senior team members.

  2. 2

    Specialise in Testing

    Gain experience in specific areas of flight testing, such as aerodynamics or avionics, and take on more responsibility.

  3. 3

    Lead Test Projects

    Transition into a Flight Test Engineer role, leading the design and execution of flight test plans.

  4. 4

    Manage Test Teams

    Advance to a Senior Flight Test Engineer position, managing a team and overseeing multiple test programmes.

  5. 5

    Strategic Leadership

    Become a Principal Flight Test Engineer, providing strategic direction and leading the overall flight test programme.

Live jobs

2 live roles

Windracers logo

Flight Test Engineer

This role involves planning, executing, and reporting flight and ground tests to verify aircraft performance. You will own test areas, develop test plans, lead test coordination, analyze data, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring safety and compliance with aviation standards.

Windracers Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Senior UAV Flight Test Engineer

This role involves planning and executing ground and flight-test campaigns for unmanned aircraft systems, with a focus on generating traceable evidence for safety and regulatory approvals. The engineer will lead test discipline practices, support technical discussions with regulators, and help build scalable verification and validation processes. Emphasis is placed on practical field experience and assurance of autonomy-related functions.

Matchtech West Yorkshire, United Kingdom £62,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is typically required. Relevant certifications and practical experience are also valuable.

  • Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are crucial. Knowledge of aviation regulations and experience with UAV systems are also important.

  • Progression involves gaining experience, specialising in specific areas, and taking on leadership roles. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry developments are key.

  • Salaries vary based on experience and location. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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