Flight Test Engineer

As part of the Flight Operations group within Bombardier Flight Test Center, based in Wichita, KS, Flight Test Engineers (FTEs) are a key part of our ability to test and certify cutting edge business aircraft. FTEs are a key part of our ability to test and certify aircraft, working in a focal role for all flight operations on test aircraft.

FTEs will fly on every test mission alongside Test Pilots to conduct testing, operate test equipment and record results. FTEs are typically assigned to a single program or Flight Test Vehicle, and the Senior FTE role will include leading a team of several FTEs to excute program needs.

FTEs will generally build familiarity with all testing disciplines required to certify Part 25 aircraft, as well as becoming knowledgeable with the design and operation of the aircraft which they are assigned to. FTEs are expected to be fast learners, and comfortable with operating in a dynamic, flexible and technically challenging environment, with high levels of autonomy and responsibility. The onboard environment can be physically challenging, with a requirement to operate under elevated g, low cabin pressures, turbulence and extreme temperatures.

FTEs work closely with all parts of the support team at BFTC and the wider Bombardier community, including engineering, maintenance, instrumentation, project management, controllers and others. Excellent communication skills are required, and FTEs will be expected to display leadership abilities in all activities.

This position requires regular onsite support, and full time remote work is not available.

What are your contributions to the team?

• Executes intermediate to complex engineering assignments requiring familiarity with several fields 
  of engineering
• Conducts research into various fields of engineering to investigate, re-evaluate and apply results of 
  this research to solve practical problems
• Identifies and reports on defects and deficiencies in work done by others. Prepares progress reports.
• Recommends changes in plans and specifications to suit special conditions.
• Develops innovative engineering techniques
• Generates documentation for approval by others.
• Reviews part of documentation prepared by others and recommends approval.
• May be responsible for small work packages.

You may also be expected to perform the following:

• Test planning, readiness, execution and reporting
• Flying onboard experimental aircraft as a crewmember following appropriate training.
• Operating all cabin experimental provisions and mission specific test instrumentation, while conducting tests and recording results.
• Communication and coordination of efforts relating to testing activities with all other disciplines
• Test documentation and reporting, including technical review and generation of test plans, instructions, test limitations and post flight reports
• Coordination of test aircraft and experimental equipment configuration for test.
• Design and development of safety critical real time data displays and derived parameters.
• Proper use of safety and risk mitigation procedures as defined by company policies, and compliance with FAA and Transport Canada Regulations

How to thrive in this role?

• You must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in an engineering discipline
• You have a minimum of 5 years of previous experience within a flight test engineering organization. Product specific development and training will be provided prior to being scheduled for regular flight crew duties.

Additional Preferred Assets Include:

• Previous flying experience (pilot or other crew member) 
• Interpersonal skills necessary to work effectively with a variety of individuals, departments and organizations.
• Strong leadership qualities and communication skills, both verbal and written 
• Demonstrated capacity to prioritize, manage and absorb large quantities of data and information.
• Ability to work with a variety of IT tools and equipment is required, with experience in the uses of programming for automation and workload reduction 
• The flight test environment may require irregular work hours (including weekends on occasion) and will require travel.
• Flight test engineers must be able to obtain and maintain an FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate or equivalent.
• Previous experience with flight test procedures and requirements, along with familiarity with Part 25 (or equivalent) certification processes and procedures
• Experience with Defense programs including familiarity with US Government processes and procedures
• Candidates must be a US Person (US Citizen or Permanent Resident) in order to qualify for ITAR security clearance