CareerPlan

2027 Flight Test Engineer Intern

Costa Mesa, CA (OC-00)Internship2026-10-14 → 2026-11-10
On-siteU.S. persons only (export control)

Core

Conduct developmental, subsystem, ground, and flight testing for defense and aerospace hardware/software systems, including UAS and autonomous platforms.

Role type

Intern, Flight Test Engineer

Builds

Defense and aerospace test systems (UAS, autonomous platforms, sensors)

Domain

Defense / Aerospace / Autonomous Systems

Required skills

Flight testing, Test planning and execution, Subsystem qualification, Ground testing, Issue tracking and resolution, Cross-functional collaboration, Safety compliance, Engineering principles, Test result analysis, Process improvement

Preferred skills

Programming (Go, Java, C++, Python, JavaScript), Linux command line, Electronics troubleshooting/repair, COTS Small UAS autopilot software, Pixhawk/ArduPilot/PX4 flight controllers, Manned aircraft operations, Rapid prototyping (3D printing, laser cutting, composites), CAD modeling, PCB design, FAA Part 107 certification, Mission autonomy systems development, Simulation environments, National Airspace System regulations, Test plan development

Technologies

Go, Java, C++, Python, JavaScript, Linux, Pixhawk, ArduPilot, PX4, CAD, PCB design tools

Responsibilities

Participate in developmental testing in a fast-paced environment; Plan and execute T&E of hardware and software; Track test issues and establish priorities; Analyze test results and recommend enhancements; Conduct subsystem, ground, and flight testing at test ranges; Ensure safe operation of all test efforts.

Seniority

Intern