Flight Test Engineer - Advanced Effects (Missiles)

Costa Mesa · Costa Mesa, CA (OC-00) · USD 112,000-149,000 · 3+ years experience · Full-time · Posted Oct 9, 2026

At a glance

This position is looking for a highly motivated flight test engineer with emphasis in developmental test of new aircraft weapon and missile systems.
You will work closely with the program test leadership, and a wide spectrum of cross-departments team members, solving hard problems and changing the industry forever.
The role will be responsible for planning, coordination, execution and reporting on all facets of the test program.

Plan and execute system level T&E of hardware and software with emphasis placed on resource planning, conducting ground and flight test, initial issue investigation, and process improvement/development.
Act as lead or supporting test engineer for missile or weapon systems to include development, certification and integration test of subsystems to the AUR configuration.
Collect test data and perform initial data analysis for the system under test.
Work closely with program management and other engineering departments to develop requirements, and discuss test results to include collected data and observations.
Assist in the creation of developmental test plans, test cards, technical updates and test reports.
Conduct ground and flight testing at private and government-owned test ranges.
Work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and standard practices.

A bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
3+ years of experience as test conductor/director for developmental aircraft, weapons, or missile systems.
Must have a good understanding of engineering concepts, principles, codes, and theory; experience demonstrating a broad application of those concepts; and expanding knowledge of principles, concepts, theory, and practices in related technical specialties.
Test engineering experience working with developmental weapon or missile systems on manned and/or unmanned aircraft to include requirements development, planning, execution, and reporting.
Previous experience with and/or current working knowledge of MIL-STD-8591, MIL-STD-2088, MIL-STD-1553, MIL-STD-1760, AS8775, AS5653, etc.
Experience integrating and conducting test with suspension, arming, and release equipment.
Previous expertise and working knowledge of the National Airspace System and UAS operating rules and regulations thereof.
Must possess the ability to understand new concepts quickly; apply them accurately; organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases; and, determine the appropriate approach at the task level or, with assistance, at the project level to provide solutions to a range of complex problems.
Strong computer and documentation experience.
Must have strong communication (written and verbal) and interpersonal skills.

Experience working with the Department of Defense (DoD).
Prior experience with software code/script building using programming languages such as Go, Java, C++, Python, JavaScript, etc.
Prior experience with Linux based systems and command line.
Working Knowledge with COTs Small UAS autopilot and mission planning software.
Experience working with manned aircraft personnel and familiar with aviation terminology.
Experience with weapon or tactical datalinks.
Experience with multiple different propulsion systems to include air and non-air breathing.

Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers
Top-tier benefits for full-time employees, supporting health, recovery, and whatever comes next