Staff Flight Test Engineer /Flight Test Lead

Staff Flight Test Engineer/Flight Test Lead

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. is seeking a full-time Flight Test Lead to work within our project teams. ESAero is a growing aerospace company in the San Luis Obispo area and provides various services which include but are not limited to rapid system development, on-demand niche engineering, hands-on development/testing, and small UAS aerospace system manufacturing.  

Job Summary:

ESAero is seeking an experienced Flight Test Lead to oversee and execute all aspects of our flight test operations. This critical role is responsible for leading a multidisciplinary flight test team, coordinating test planning and execution, and ensuring all activities are carried out safely, efficiently, and in accordance with applicable regulations and program goals. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise, leadership experience, and a background in military or military contract flight operations.

Key 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.

Required Qualifications:

• 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 Qualifications:

• 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

Work Environment and Travel:

• This role requires hands-on work at test sites and may involve travel to various test locations.

• Must be able to work in both office and field environments

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks:

• 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!

Company Overview

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel

the aerospace industry forward.

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**

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ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.
E-Verify participation required for employment.
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.   
Must be able to pass background check. 
Pay Range: $140k – 175k (DOE)