Job Listings
Pilots - Virgin Galactic
Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced SpaceShips and launch vehicles. Its scale and profitability are being driven by next-generation vehicles capable of taking humans to space at an unprecedented frequency with an industry-leading cost structure.
Over the past decade, several trends have converged to invigorate the commercial space industry. Rapidly advancing technologies, decreasing costs, open and collaborative innovation models, and greater availability of capital have driven explosive growth in the market. The growth in private investment has led to a wave of new commercial space companies reinventing parts of the traditional space industry, including human spaceflight, satellites, payload delivery and methods of launch, in addition to unlocking entirely new potential market segments. In light of these trends, we believe the exploration of space and the cultivation and monetization of space-related capabilities creates immense potential for economic value and future growth, in addition to rapid innovation and life-changing personal experiences.
At Virgin Galactic, we believe we are at the center of these industry trends and well-positioned to advance them and capitalize on them by opening human spaceflight to a broader global population of dreamers and adventurers. To date, the market for commercial human spaceflight for private individuals is largely untapped. As of December 31, 2024, fewer than 800 people had flown to space. Overwhelmingly, these men and women have been government employees handpicked by space agencies such as NASA and trained over many years at significant expense. Virgin Galactic is in the process of changing that. As of December 31, 2024, Virgin Galactic had reservations for approximately 700 future astronauts
Each ticket purchased delivers a unique, human-first spaceflight journey designed around each individual to maximize the transformative power of space travel. Virgin Galactic astronauts become part of a new space age, one in which leaving Earth’s atmosphere is an experience no longer reserved only for professional astronauts.
While our initial focus at Virgin Galactic has been on human spaceflight for personal exploration and research, we believe our differentiated technology and unique capabilities can be leveraged to address numerous commercial and government opportunities in the commercial space industry. Our advanced space vehicles were first built with human space travel in mind, but their potential doesn’t stop there. Our pioneering technology and industry-leading talent are opening up a world of promise and possibility.
Virgin Galactic Pilots
Virgin Galactic (VG) is recruiting pilots to support the development and the flight test programs of its spaceflight vehicles, and to operate commercial spaceflights.
Successful applicants will be based at Spaceport America in New Mexico. Some work will also take place from time to time at other locations. The primary responsibilities are test flying and commercial pilot duties. Pilots will support the development and operation of the VG spaceflight system in accordance with government regulations and company policies and procedures, and operate the sub-orbital spaceflight service for VG Customer-Astronauts and Science-Research Payload customers.
Responsibilities
In addition to flight duties on the VG Spaceflight System vehicles and other aircraft, duties will also include flight planning activities, mission control support roles, the development of training assets, vehicle operations documentation, planning, testing and developing follow-on vehicles, recruitment, record keeping and training obligations, as well as supporting the safety, engineering, maintenance, commercial and marketing teams, and supporting customer hospitality and training.
Required Skills and Experience
- Graduate of an SETP-recognized test pilot school full (one year) course with extensive post-graduate test program experience.
- A diverse flying background with at least 2,500 hours flying experience to include: multi-engine aircraft with asymmetric thrust performance and handling considerations; high performance fast jet aircraft, and low lift-to-drag ratio glide experience (e.g. simulated flameout landings) in complex aircraft.
- FAA Class 1 or military medical.
- Degree level qualification in a relevant technical field.
- Proven successful team member.
- Excellent communication skills.
- The position is to be based in New Mexico.
Preffered Skills and Experience
- A minimum of 2½ years post-graduate test pilot school flight test experience.
- Operational experience of a commercial aerospace aviation project or business.
- Excellent and current knowledge of a diverse range of aerospace matters.
- A current FAA Commercial (or equivalent) pilot license.
- Ability to communicate aviation knowledge and safety related information simply, succinctly, and clearly.
- Previous responsibility for authorizing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.
- Previous experience in spaceflight.
- Commercial flight operations with customer interaction.
Some of the above desirable criteria may be reduced for otherwise exceptional candidates.
#LI-DR1
The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $260,000.00–$278,750.00. The base pay actually offered will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience and take into account internal equity. Other forms of pay (e.g., bonus or long term incentive) may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. For more information regarding Virgin Galactic benefits, please visit https://vgcareers.virgingalactic.com/global/en/benefits
Who We Are
Virgin Galactic is an aerospace and space travel company, pioneering human spaceflight for private individuals and researchers with its advanced air and space vehicles. We are making the dream of space travel a reality, delivering spaceflight at an unprecedented frequency, with the development of next generation space vehicles.
Export Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Person (either a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident or a protected individual as defined 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) or be able to obtain the required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The applicant must also not be included in the list of Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control. See list here.
EEO Statement
Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Virgin Galactic is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
DRUG FREE WORKPLACE
Virgin Galactic is committed to a Drug Free Workplace. All applicants post offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies. This can include pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident related drug and alcohol testing.
PHOENIX EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
For individuals seeking employment at our Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility, employment is contingent upon you obtaining and maintaining a TSA authorized security badge. This includes initial and annual mandatory background checks that are governed by TSA, and conducted by the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport badging office.
posted 19 September
Sr. Principal Pilot Test - Northrop Grumman
Link to Apply: R10204946 Sr. Principal Pilot Test
Location: Florida-Melbourne
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Sr. Principal Test Pilot to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Test & Evaluation organization.
Applicant must be able to support 25% travel to other locations within the U.S. to support Palmdale CA and Edwards AFB, CA.
.
Key Responsibilities:
• Technical Writer for development of operational documentation for program
• Will be required to understand and brief asset hardware and software integration and changes/updates to stakeholders
• Conduct briefings and debriefings, and coordinates with maintenance personnel to analyze and correct vehicle discrepancies
• Conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials or other personnel to exhibit vehicle performance, flying qualities and system capabilities as required
• Travel to test or customer sites as required
• Selected candidate must successfully complete GV training and qualification as a basis for continued employment
We offer a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off, phenomenal learning opportunities, exposure to a wide variety of projects and customers, and a very friendly team environment. We are looking for self-motivated, proactive, and goal-oriented people to help us grow our services and become even better at what we do.
Basic Qualifications:
• Must have a Bachelor degree and 8 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in aerospace test activities OR a Master degree and 6 years of related professional/military experience to include a background in aerospace test activities.
• Must have experience as a flight operations crew member
• Must be commercial instrument rated pilot (FAA or military equivalent), with current FAA Class II Medical or better.
• Must have a minimum of 1500 hours of flight experience as Pilot in Command
• Your ability to obtain and/or transfer and maintain the Final adjudicated government Secret Clearance (DoD must be in-scope or enrolled in Continuous Evaluation) and any program access(es) required for the position within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Current or previous PIC or SIC type rating Gulfstream V aircraft
• Test Pilot School graduate
• Military flight experience
• Flight test experience
• DoD Secret Clearance or higher
Primary Level Salary Range: $143,600.00 - $215,400.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
posted 22 August
Rotorcraft Flight Test Pilot - Garmin
Rotorcraft Flight Test Pilot - Garmin
About Garmin
Garmin's aviation products and services have revolutionized flight and become essential to the lives of pilots, aircraft owners and operators around the world. A leading provider of solutions to general aviation, business aviation, rotorcraft, advanced air mobility, government and defense, and commercial air carrier customers, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate.
Position Overview
Garmin is seeking a full-time Rotorcraft Flight Test Pilot in our Salem, OR location. In this role, you will be responsible for performing simple and moderately complex flight test pilot activities including developing ground and flight test plans, serving as Pilot in Command during execution of flight tests, operating data collection systems and post processes flight data, developing a thorough understanding of the system under test, and applying an understanding of the certification processes and regulations. Keep in mind this position requires a minimum of 1500 flight hours in rotorcraft (helicopter) hours and engineering education and experience.
Essential Functions
- Acts as Pilot in Command for experimental aircraft with minor changes to certificate design and conducts simple, low-risk flight tests
- May act as Flight Test Project Lead for simple projects
- Drafts ground and flight test plans and reports for simple and moderately complex test programs derived from previous programs
- Leverages understanding of operational characteristics of the system under development/test to contribute to system design
- Understands/able to maintain basic test aircraft configurations/coordinates with engineering teams
- Able to operate data collection systems and post process flight test data
- Addresses issues with test aircraft and installations including basic troubleshooting and coordination with aircraft maintenance
- Contributes meaningful content and review to flight manuals and technical publications intended for use by pilots
- Identifies issues during flight test and verifies that issues identified during flight test are resolved 07
- Leverages basic understanding of certification process and associated regulations in review of certification plans for basic certification projects
- Offers suggestions to improve processes and the safety of the flight test organization
- Provides reliable solutions to variety of problems using sound problem solving techniques and applies a sense of urgency, commitment and focus on the right priorities in developing solutions timely
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Computer Engineering AND a minimum of 1 year relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
- Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule)
- Commercial Pilot Certificate (Rotorcraft required)
- 2nd Class FAA Medical Certificate
- Minimum 1,500 hours total flight time
- Demonstrates basic understanding of certification processes and associated regulations
- Demonstrates strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
- Demonstrates the capability to perform moderately complex troubleshooting & debugging
Desired Qualifications
- Aerodynamic or aeronautical knowledge of how aircraft systems are designed
- Accustomed to Crew Resource Management
- Demonstrates basic understanding of system safety analysis
- Previous experience in systems engineering or software development
Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran’s status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits
Test Pilot - Electra
Test Pilot
About Electra
Electra's next gen mission is to develop Ultra Short aircraft, built for Direct Aviation. We are redefining the next level of connectivity, pioneering direct aviation - without airports, emissions, or noise. Electra's Ultra Short aircraft will revolutionize air travel by bringing it closer to where we live, work, and play, making new connections possible. This makes a new venture like Electra exciting and fast-paced. Headquartered in Northern Virginia, we're on a quest to build a team of insanely talented people who want to do meaningful work.
Job Description
Electra is seeking an experienced Test Pilot to support development and piloting of both our two seat prototype and 9-passenger product hybrid electric, blown wing, UltraShort (eSTOL) aircraft. This is an incredible hands-on opportunity to make a direct impact on the future of aviation and advanced air mobility. This position will be based in Manassas, Virginia. You will be a part of a professional, high-performing flight team whose goal is to supply accurate, repeatable, and cost-effective data to the engineering group. The primary objective of this role is to pilot our experimental technical demonstrator and other products. Additional objectives include normal Test Pilot duties relating to testing and certification and developing user interfaces, operating procedures, and training. This role will also support the development, certification, and demonstration of STOL test and evaluation.
Click HERE for more information & to apply.
Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions
- Complete experimental flight tests in an UltraShort take-off and landing aircraft
- Coordinate with flight test engineering teams to develop test plans, test cards, and test procedures
- Develop and maintain flight manuals, operations, checklists, and procedures
- Lead and/or participate in the safety of flight and flight readiness review boards
- Complete all required documentation in accordance with established company and FAA procedures
- Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types
- Other duties as assigned
Required Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in an engineering or related field
- Ten (10) or more years of experience as a flight test engineer or test pilot directly related to the flight evaluation of crewed aircraft
Required Skills
- Commercial pilot license, single-engine and multi-engine land, with instrument rating
-FAA Class II Medical
-Without limitations - Total time
-1500 hours in aircraft
-100 hours turbine - PIC time
-1000 hours in the airplane category
-100 hours testing experimental aircraft - Long course graduate of a recognized test pilot school or five years of equivalent experimental test pilot experience
- Experience with risk management, including hazard identification and preparing risk assessments
- Experience with experimental aircraft certification and testing
- Familiarity with standard flight test processes and procedures
- Knowledge of the FAA civil certification process
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proactive delivery of communication and follow up
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Must have the ability to independently prioritize and accomplish work within time constraints
- A strong work ethic and ability to independently execute the areas described in the responsibilities and essential functions
- Excellent organizational, collaboration and communication skills, ability to work effectively under pressure and with a team
Desired Qualifications
- Master's degree in engineering or related field
- Experience working with the FAA and familiarization with aircraft, helicopter, or powered lift FAA certification programs
- Experience supporting the envelope expansion of new model aircraft
- Formation flying, flight training, and media demos
- Experience developing/optimizing simulators/ground control station and training equipment
- Experience in developing digital flight control systems
- Experience flight testing rapid prototype aircraft and components
- Experience working in fast-paced small teams
Travel: Up to 50% of domestic and international travel
Salary: Electra's salary range for this position is: $160,000- $200,000.00
Our salary ranges reflect the minimum and maximum range for the Company level overall across all locations & projects and does not necessarily reflect the budgeted amount for this position. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and/or training, role, level, location, and project
posted 29 July
Test Pilot - Joby
Test Pilot
Job Locations US-CA-Marina
ID 2025-4038
Category Flight Test
Type Regular Full-Time
Joby Overview
Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. Since 2009, our team has worked steadily to make this dream a reality. We’ve designed and tested many generations of prototype aircraft capable of serving in a network of electric air taxis. We’re looking for talented, committed individuals to join our team as we push onward toward certifying the Joby aircraft, scaling our manufacturing, and launching our initial commercial service.
Overview
Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven test pilot to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes planning and flight testing experimental CTOL/VTOL fly-by-wire aircraft and supporting all certification flight test related activities. Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. Either or both VSTOL and DER or AR qualification is desired.
Responsibilities
- Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting
- Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes
- Contribute to flight readiness reviews, test safety reviews, and other flight test admin activities
- Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities
- Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked
- Complete all required documentation in accordance with established company and FAA procedures
- Observe all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company
- Expected to work safely by established operating procedures and practices
- Other duties as assigned or required
Required
- Long course graduate of recognized test pilot school or, exceptionally, equivalent on-the-job training
- At least 3 years additional flight test experience post training, with at least 50 hours experimental or certification flight test experience as test pilot
- Bachelor's of Science degree or equivalent experience and training
- Fixed Wing and / or Rotorcraft Commercial Certificate
- A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
- Read and speak English proficiently
Desired
- Both fixed wing and rotary wing flight test experience, with principal experience in fixed wing
- AV-8 or F-35B experience and/or V-22 experience
- FAA certification flight test experience
- Flight instructional experience
- Test pilot school instructional experience
- Experience with all-electric aircraft
- Flight test DER or AR
Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $175,648 - $254,805. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.
Additional Information
Joby Aviation is an equal opportunity employer.
Flight Test Safety Program Manager - Joby Aviation
Flight Test Safety Program Manager
Click HERE to apply.
Joby Overview
Located in Northern California, the team at Joby Aviation is driven by our goal of creating an affordable, all-electric air transportation system. Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. Since 2009, our team has worked steadily to make this dream a reality. We’ve designed and tested many generations of prototype aircraft capable of serving in a network of electric air taxis. We’re looking for talented, committed individuals to join our team as we push onwards toward certifying the Joby aircraft with the Federal Aviation Administration, scaling our manufacturing, and launching our initial commercial service.
Overview
Joby Aviation is seeking a highly motivated Flight Test Safety Program Manager to join the Safety Team to ensure the safe conduct of flight tests. This individual will possess a strong understanding of flight test, aircraft operations, and Safety Management System. They will work with the Flight Test Team on a daily basis to provide input to and oversight of safety processes and decisions. They must be able to investigate incidents, determine if corrective actions are required, and ensure accountability for those actions. The position is located in Marina, California in the Monterey/Santa Cruz region and requires regular travel to offsite test locations.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for managing the Flight Test Safety program, working with Flight Test, Flight Test Maintenance, and other departments, with oversight from the Technical Safety Lead
- Develop a robust Flight Test Safety Management System (SMS) program, integrated into the Enterprise SMS program in coordination with the Enterprise Safety Manager
- Ensures company preparedness by maintaining the Flight Test Emergency Response Plan, in coordination with company emergency response plans, and through periodic drills
- Participates in Flight Test planning and operations to provide input to and oversight of safety processes and decisions
- Conduct audits of flight test operations, safety management, procedures, and manuals to ensure effectiveness of and compliance with policies and procedures
- Facilitate and lead the Flight Test Safety Committee in processing and investigating Flight Test Incident Reports to identify root cause and ensuring corrective actions are effective
- Works to continuously improve the flight test safety through Safety Risk Management (SRM), fosters safety culture, and provides safety promotion through training and regular safety meetings
- Interfaces with regulators and external agencies, when requested by the Technical Safety Lead and/or Head of Safety
- Prepare presentations, analyses, and reports for internal and external reviews and safety boards and participate in other safety committees as required
- Ensures that all the Company’s Flight Test Safety programs continuously improve to adapt to changing environment and safety challenges
- Assist the Enterprise Safety Manager in the collection of safety related data and statistics to support safety assurance (SA)
- Supports the broader safety team in company safety programs
- Supports flight test and flight operations demonstration teams for domestic and international demonstrations
- Other duties as assigned
Required
- 5 years flight safety experience
- Advanced degree, with Aviation Safety specialty or equivalent experience
- Prior Flight Test experience
- Comprehensive data analysis and statistical skills
- Previous experience with SMS, SRM and SA
- Demonstrated working experience with the FAA, NTSB or military
Desired
- Formal Safety Training (Military, FAA, NTSB, SCSI, Collegiate)
- FAA or Military pilot or maintenance certifications
- Experience writing manuals and policies
- Project management experience
- Experience with airplane development and certification
Additional Information
Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $105,800 - $174,200/year. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.
Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Click HERE to apply.
posted 12 June 2025