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Air Force Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Akima, LLC

Chief Pilot

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Direct all Maintenance Test Flight operations. * Supervise assigned Maintenance Test Pilots ... Ensure compliance with Air Force Technical Orders. * Ensure compliance with applicable flight ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Company Overview Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and ... Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ...

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Air Force Test Pilot information

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$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do air force test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for air force test pilot in the United States is $105,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $107,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Air Force Test Pilot?

Air Force Test Pilots are highly trained military aviators responsible for flying new or modified aircraft to evaluate their performance, safety, and reliability. They conduct rigorous test flights, analyze data, and provide feedback to engineers and developers to help improve aircraft design and functionality. These pilots play a crucial role in advancing aviation technology and ensuring the effectiveness of Air Force aircraft before they are widely deployed. Becoming a test pilot typically requires extensive flight experience, advanced education, and completion of specialized training programs such as the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School.

What are some common challenges Air Force Test Pilots face when working with multidisciplinary teams during flight test programs?

Air Force Test Pilots often collaborate with engineers, scientists, maintenance crews, and program managers to evaluate new aircraft systems. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these diverse teams, as technical language and priorities can differ. Test pilots must translate flight experiences into actionable feedback while balancing safety, mission objectives, and technical accuracy. Building strong teamwork and fostering mutual respect are essential for successful test programs and personal career development.

What is the difference between Air Force Test Pilot vs Navy Test Pilot?

AspectAir Force Test PilotNavy Test Pilot
Required CredentialsMilitary pilot certification, test pilot school, engineering degreeMilitary pilot certification, test pilot school, engineering degree
Work EnvironmentAir Force bases, flight testing aircraft, high-altitude and speed testingNavy bases, aircraft carrier testing, maritime and carrier operations
Employer & IndustryU.S. Air Force, aerospace industryU.S. Navy, naval aviation, aerospace industry

Both Air Force and Navy Test Pilots require similar credentials, including military pilot certification and test pilot training. The main difference lies in their work environment and aircraft focus: Air Force Test Pilots typically operate from air force bases testing high-altitude and speed aircraft, while Navy Test Pilots often work on aircraft carrier operations and maritime aircraft. Both roles are vital in advancing military aviation technology within their respective branches.

How hard is it to get into Air Force Test Pilot school?

Getting into the Air Force Test Pilot School is highly competitive, requiring candidates to have extensive flying experience, typically as a rated pilot with thousands of flight hours, and strong academic and leadership credentials. Applicants must also pass rigorous physical and psychological evaluations, and selection is based on demonstrated technical skill, adaptability, and performance under pressure.

How do you become an Air Force Test Pilot?

To become an Air Force Test Pilot, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or a related field, along with experience as a rated military pilot with a minimum of 1,500 flight hours. They must complete the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, which requires a selection process including interviews, medical exams, and a strong record of flying skills and technical knowledge.

Is being an Air Force Test Pilot worth it?

Being an Air Force Test Pilot is a highly specialized and demanding career that involves flying advanced aircraft to evaluate performance and safety. It requires extensive training, including pilot certifications and engineering knowledge, and offers unique opportunities for technical skill development and service to national defense. The role is often considered rewarding for those passionate about aviation and aerospace innovation, but it also involves significant risk and a rigorous selection process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Force Test Pilot?

To thrive as an Air Force Test Pilot, you need a military pilot’s license, extensive flight experience, and a degree in engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with advanced flight control systems, avionics testing tools, and specialized simulation software is typically required, alongside completion of a recognized test pilot school. Exceptional analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help pilots assess aircraft performance and convey findings to engineering teams. These capabilities are crucial to ensuring flight safety, advancing aircraft technology, and supporting mission-critical defense objectives.
More about Air Force Test Pilot jobs
What job categories do people searching Air Force Test Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Force Test Pilot jobs are:
Air Force Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Force Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Senior Business Subject Matter Expert - Developmental Test Pilot

Solvere Technical Group LLC

Elizabeth City, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

SOLVERE is seeking a Senior Business Subject Matter Expert - Developmental Test Pilot that will provide a highly qualified Developmental Test Pilot to plan and execute high-risk developmental, operational, and engineering test flights on new or modified USCG aircraft. The pilot acts as the senior subject matter expert for aircraft performance, systems integration, and handling qualities, providing critical qualitative and quantitative feedback to engineering teams.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Conduct engineering flight tests to determine or demonstrate critical operating characteristics, including the initial flight of modified mission type/design aircraft, operating envelope expansion, and handling qualities evaluation.
  • Develop, coordinate, and execute detailed flight test plans, test hazard analyses (THA), safety briefings, and final technical test reports.
  • Assist in test policy, procedure, and template generation under supervision of the by direction of the Chief Test Pilot.
  • Supervise the contract Flight Test Engineers.
  • Conduct Developmental, Experimental, and Operational Test Flights to evaluate aircraft performance, operational suitability, safety, and avionics integration (e.g., glass cockpit, Minotaur mission system).
  • Perform Maintenance Test Flights (MTFs) and Instructor Pilot (IP) duties (including currency, familiarization, and check rides) as collateral duties, if explicitly qualified and directed by the Government.

Qualifications:
  • Must be a graduate of the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School (USNTPS), U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, or an accredited international equivalent (Long Course).
  • Must possess an active FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with helicopter and instrument ratings.
  • Must possess and maintain a current FAA Class II (or higher) Medical Certificate.
  • Minimum of fifteen (15) years of operational and test experience with military rotary-wing aircraft.
  • Minimum Flight Hours:
    • 1,500 total hours on rotary-wing aircraft.
    • 1,500 total hours as Pilot In Command (PIC).
    • 100 total hours as PIC during engineering, developmental, or acceptance flights.
    • 200 total hours utilizing Night Vision Goggles (NVG).
    • Must have highly documented, specialized experience conducting rotary-wing shipboard envelope expansion testing (Dynamic Interface) and glass cockpit avionics integration.

Security Clearance:
  • SECRET. (Must be eligible for a North American Treaty Organization [NATO] Secret caveat and Cryptographic Access to utilize tactical secure communications during test events).

BENEFITS
Solvere offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package. The Solvere benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and/or families. Solvere also includes basic life insurance plus short- and long-term disability for the employee. Employees may elect to enroll in our company's 401k plan. Employees will also accrue paid time off and holidays. Additional voluntary options include supplemental insurance plans.
About the Company Visit: www.solveretechnical.com
Solvere Technical Group is committed to non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law.

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