I had the pleasure of sitting next to the engineer on the way to New York, he never stopped.
One could suggest it is quite easy for the two in the "front seats". No slats, no flaps, just a clean wing and a nose with a hinge on it (I bet the engineer controlled that also).
However as all if us who have done a course in sub/supersonic aerodynamics will know the centre of lift moves about quite a lot.
The engineer has the job of pumping fuel around the airframe to try and get the C of G somewhere near the C of Lift. Also juggling with trying to keep the punters cool with skin temperatures of 120C. All this with 1960's technology.
I applaud their skill and dedication to a job which has been underrated over the years.
I never had the pleasure during my 35 years flying to operate with an engineer. I think I missed out.