Flight Test Engineer

Introduction

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

Plan and execute flight test engineering product objectives by applying and utilizing Flight Test Operational Procedures and standards outlined by the organisation. Report on the results of the flight tests so that the overall objectives of product development and/or qualification programs can be met.

Duties & Responsibilities

Test Plan, Execution and Reporting

• Plan, execute, and report on flight tests for advanced aerospace and defence systems.

• Develop flight test plans and ensure safe, efficient test preparation and execution.

• Lead test missions as Test Director and coordinate control-room operations.

• Analyse post-flight data and contribute to design reviews and safety boards.

• Continuously refine flight test SOPs and uphold regulatory standards.

• Conduct maintenance test flights and identify aircraft defects.

• Support project milestones and deliver clear, insightful customer reports.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Aeronautical, Mechanical, Mechatronic, Electronic, Electrical).

• Medically fit for a Class 1 Flying Medical.

• Experience with complex engineered systems, aircraft operations, or data analysis tools (Matlab, Excel).

• Ideally 3+ years of flight test experience.

• A genuine enthusiasm for aerospace development and a desire to build a long-term career in this specialised field.

Ideal

• Flight Test Engineering qualification from a recognised Test Pilot School.

• M.Eng in Aerospace or related fields.

• Commercial Pilot Licence with Instrument Rating, Restricted Radio Licence, CRM training.

• ECSA registration.

• Test instrumentation knowledge, exposure to aeronautical engineering conferences.

If successful, you will be part of a team driving South Africa’s aerospace innovation — from aircraft systems to defence systems and UAVs. This is a role for someone who wants to invest their talent in meaningful, long term engineering work with national impact.

Interested?

Correspondence will be with short-listed candidates only. Should you not hear from us within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Internal Applicants , please email a detailed CV, covering letter and relevant qualification/s to: HRDepartment_das@denel.co.za .

Closing date: 30 September 2026

External Applicants , please apply on PNet, do not forget to attach your CV, covering letter and copies of relevant qualification/s.

DENEL is an equal opportunity employer and position will be filled in line with its EE targets.