Flight Test Engineer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Flight test engineers develop and execute test programs for aircraft systems, requiring specialized aerospace engineering expertise that qualifies for H-1B and other work visas. Major aerospace employers like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman regularly sponsor visas for these roles due to the specialized technical knowledge required. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Founded in 1973, Robinson Helicopter Company Inc., (RHC), is the preeminent manufacturer of civil rotorcraft located in Torrance, California. Robinson has built its reputation on a 50-year history of commitment to providing affordable and quality aircraft with a wide range of applications. We have a strong engineering team; almost 85% of our manufacturing processes, including production of parts and assembly, are done in our Torrance location. We also offer comprehensive overhaul services while rapidly responding to customers’ needs; to keep their aircraft flying. Our commitment to our vision of keeping our customers flying has earned RHC a variety of recognition from our customers. Robinson is an engineering focused organization that provides challenging and exciting opportunities to contribute to the future of vertical flight. As an Experimental Flight Test Engineer at Robinson Helicopter, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development and certification of the most widely used civil helicopters in the world. The Experimental Flight Test Engineer is part of a small and nimble test team that plans, executes, analyzes, and reports on ground and flight test of experimental rotorcraft and/or systems. The Experimental FTE works closely with other engineering members to convert their requirements into safe and efficient test plans and procedures. You will be challenged with bringing unique and complex aircraft from development through certification.
Responsibilities
- Formulate experimental flight test requirements.
- Participate as a test crew member or a test conductor in development and research flight tests of experimental rotorcraft.
- Conduct varying, complex flight test projects for rotorcraft including writing test plans, test cards, and flight test reports.
- Conduct flight test sorties briefs and debriefs.
- Provide detailed requirements and/or assist in developing specialized flight test instrumentation required to achieve test objectives and goals.
- Conduct analysis of flight test data to prepare reports and technical publications.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to develop test strategies, determine test configurations, plan, and execute test programs in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.
- Comply with department processes and standard operating procedures to ensure flight testing is accomplished with high levels of safety, effectiveness, consistency, and efficiency.
- Contribute insights and innovations to improve the product and organization.
- Participate in multi-disciplinary design reviews and assist with resolving cross-functional technical issues.
- Document and control test articles configuration.
- Develop and monitor test schedules with project engineers and managers.
- Lead and/or participate in flight test safety programs to ensure testing hazards are mitigated to reduce risk and to promote safe execution of tests. This includes participation in flight test plan reviews, pre and post flight briefings and test readiness reviews.
- Interface with regulator (FAA, EASA, TCCA, etc.) flight test personnel to conduct flight test aspects of aircraft certification.
- Maintain required records and conduct audits to verify compliance with processes and procedures.
- Maintain flying currency as a flight test engineer in multiple experimental rotorcraft.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Four-year Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related technical field from an accredited academic institution.
- 5+ years’ experience as an experimental rotary wing flight test engineer.
- Significant experience managing risk and safety in the experimental flight test environment.
- Experience in development and type certification flight test programs for fixed and/or rotary-wing aircraft.
- Excellent academic record.
- Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Team-oriented, possess a positive attitude, and work well with others.
- Ability and willingness to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel to and support operations at offsite locations when needed.
- Proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong project management, organization, and risk management skills.
- Thorough understanding of technical theories, concepts and practices in the fields of experimental flight testing, rotorcraft aerodynamics, performance and flying qualities.
- Working knowledge of aircraft systems and avionics flight testing methods and of the applicable FAR requirements.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office products and engineering software tools.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Graduate of a recognized flight test school or possess substantial experience in development and certification flight test programs.
- Significant experience in defining, designing and installing specialized flight test instrumentation in experimental aircraft.
- DER and/or ODA experience.
- Master of Science degree in engineering or a related technical field from an accredited academic institution.
- FAA Helicopter pilot certificate and experience.
WHAT CAN A CAREER AT RHC OFFER YOU?
We offer our teams members opportunities for professional development, training, and learning. Our performance management system is structured to provide opportunities for career focused development. Our career development is supported with a great tuition reimbursement program.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
We offer comprehensive group health plans including medical EPO, PPO and High Deductible Health Plans with Health Savings Account, dental, vision and other supplemental plans which begin on the day you begin employment with RHC. Our Supplemental Plans include Voluntary Life Insurance, and Pet Insurance. RHC offers a competitive 401k Plan. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about quality assurance in manufacturing, and your career goals include working with a dynamic team with exciting products such as helicopters, why not apply; give yourself a chance to speak with our team. Robinson Helicopter Company is known in the industry for its exceptional efficiency in the production and assembly of helicopters. We encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!
Robinson Helicopter Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
INTRODUCTION
Founded in 1973, Robinson Helicopter Company Inc., (RHC), is the preeminent manufacturer of civil rotorcraft located in Torrance, California. Robinson has built its reputation on a 50-year history of commitment to providing affordable and quality aircraft with a wide range of applications. We have a strong engineering team; almost 85% of our manufacturing processes, including production of parts and assembly, are done in our Torrance location. We also offer comprehensive overhaul services while rapidly responding to customers’ needs; to keep their aircraft flying. Our commitment to our vision of keeping our customers flying has earned RHC a variety of recognition from our customers. Robinson is an engineering focused organization that provides challenging and exciting opportunities to contribute to the future of vertical flight. As an Experimental Flight Test Engineer at Robinson Helicopter, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development and certification of the most widely used civil helicopters in the world. The Experimental Flight Test Engineer is part of a small and nimble test team that plans, executes, analyzes, and reports on ground and flight test of experimental rotorcraft and/or systems. The Experimental FTE works closely with other engineering members to convert their requirements into safe and efficient test plans and procedures. You will be challenged with bringing unique and complex aircraft from development through certification.
Responsibilities
- Formulate experimental flight test requirements.
- Participate as a test crew member or a test conductor in development and research flight tests of experimental rotorcraft.
- Conduct varying, complex flight test projects for rotorcraft including writing test plans, test cards, and flight test reports.
- Conduct flight test sorties briefs and debriefs.
- Provide detailed requirements and/or assist in developing specialized flight test instrumentation required to achieve test objectives and goals.
- Conduct analysis of flight test data to prepare reports and technical publications.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to develop test strategies, determine test configurations, plan, and execute test programs in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.
- Comply with department processes and standard operating procedures to ensure flight testing is accomplished with high levels of safety, effectiveness, consistency, and efficiency.
- Contribute insights and innovations to improve the product and organization.
- Participate in multi-disciplinary design reviews and assist with resolving cross-functional technical issues.
- Document and control test articles configuration.
- Develop and monitor test schedules with project engineers and managers.
- Lead and/or participate in flight test safety programs to ensure testing hazards are mitigated to reduce risk and to promote safe execution of tests. This includes participation in flight test plan reviews, pre and post flight briefings and test readiness reviews.
- Interface with regulator (FAA, EASA, TCCA, etc.) flight test personnel to conduct flight test aspects of aircraft certification.
- Maintain required records and conduct audits to verify compliance with processes and procedures.
- Maintain flying currency as a flight test engineer in multiple experimental rotorcraft.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Four-year Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related technical field from an accredited academic institution.
- 5+ years’ experience as an experimental rotary wing flight test engineer.
- Significant experience managing risk and safety in the experimental flight test environment.
- Experience in development and type certification flight test programs for fixed and/or rotary-wing aircraft.
- Excellent academic record.
- Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Team-oriented, possess a positive attitude, and work well with others.
- Ability and willingness to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel to and support operations at offsite locations when needed.
- Proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong project management, organization, and risk management skills.
- Thorough understanding of technical theories, concepts and practices in the fields of experimental flight testing, rotorcraft aerodynamics, performance and flying qualities.
- Working knowledge of aircraft systems and avionics flight testing methods and of the applicable FAR requirements.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office products and engineering software tools.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Graduate of a recognized flight test school or possess substantial experience in development and certification flight test programs.
- Significant experience in defining, designing and installing specialized flight test instrumentation in experimental aircraft.
- DER and/or ODA experience.
- Master of Science degree in engineering or a related technical field from an accredited academic institution.
- FAA Helicopter pilot certificate and experience.
WHAT CAN A CAREER AT RHC OFFER YOU?
We offer our teams members opportunities for professional development, training, and learning. Our performance management system is structured to provide opportunities for career focused development. Our career development is supported with a great tuition reimbursement program.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
We offer comprehensive group health plans including medical EPO, PPO and High Deductible Health Plans with Health Savings Account, dental, vision and other supplemental plans which begin on the day you begin employment with RHC. Our Supplemental Plans include Voluntary Life Insurance, and Pet Insurance. RHC offers a competitive 401k Plan. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about quality assurance in manufacturing, and your career goals include working with a dynamic team with exciting products such as helicopters, why not apply; give yourself a chance to speak with our team. Robinson Helicopter Company is known in the industry for its exceptional efficiency in the production and assembly of helicopters. We encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!
Robinson Helicopter Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a Flight Test Engineer
Target defense contractors and major aerospace companies
Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman have established visa sponsorship programs and regularly hire international flight test engineers for specialized aircraft development projects.
Emphasize your specialized testing methodology expertise
Highlight experience with specific flight test protocols, data acquisition systems, and safety procedures. This specialized knowledge strengthens your H-1B specialty occupation case significantly.
Consider smaller aerospace suppliers and testing facilities
Companies like BAE Systems, General Dynamics, and specialized flight test centers often have less competition for sponsored positions while still offering meaningful aerospace work.
Leverage clearance-eligible status if applicable
Many flight test positions require security clearances. If you're eligible for clearance processing, emphasize this advantage when approaching defense contractors and government aerospace facilities.
Highlight certifications in aviation testing standards
Certifications in DO-178C, ARP4754A, or other aviation standards demonstrate specialized expertise that employers value and that strengthens your visa petition's specialty occupation argument.
Network through aerospace professional organizations
Join the Society of Flight Test Engineers and attend conferences. Many flight test positions are filled through professional networks rather than public job postings.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does flight test engineering qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B visas?
Yes, flight test engineering consistently qualifies as an H-1B specialty occupation. The role requires specialized aerospace engineering knowledge, complex mathematical analysis, and understanding of flight dynamics that directly corresponds to an aerospace or mechanical engineering degree.
What degree is required for H-1B sponsorship as a flight test engineer?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering. Some positions accept physics or related engineering disciplines if combined with relevant flight test experience. The degree field must relate directly to aerospace systems and testing methodologies.
How competitive is visa sponsorship for flight test engineers?
Flight test engineers face moderate competition for sponsored positions. While there are fewer openings than general software roles, the specialized nature of the work means qualified candidates often have good success rates with major aerospace contractors who regularly sponsor visas.
Can flight test engineers get green cards through their employers?
Yes, most flight test engineering positions qualify for EB-2 green cards due to the advanced degree requirement or exceptional ability in aerospace testing. Defense contractors often support green card applications, though security clearance requirements may affect timing and processing.
Do flight test engineers need security clearances for visa sponsorship?
Not all flight test positions require clearances, but many do. Clearance requirements don't prevent H-1B sponsorship, but you must be eligible for clearance processing as a foreign national. Some employers will sponsor visas first, then pursue clearances after you start working.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Flight Test Engineer jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
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