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Air Force Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

Company Overview Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and ... This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA

$214K - $321K/yr

Engage with program IPTs and REs to ensure air vehicle and ground station designs/modifications are effective and suitable * Provides test pilot inputs at FRR, TRRs and SRBs ensuring safe conduct of ...

New

Wisk Aero LLC

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$126 - $157/hr

Author air vehicle and subsystem test plans. * Evaluate hazards posed by the method and scope of tests, and establish appropriate mitigations. * Conduct flight test and safety chase, piloting our ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA · On-site

$214K - $321K/yr

Engage with program IPTs and REs to ensure air vehicle and ground station designs/modifications are effective and suitable * Provides test pilot inputs at FRR, TRRs and SRBs ensuring safe conduct of ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$126 - $157/hr

Author air vehicle and subsystem test plans * Evaluate hazards posed by the method and scope of tests, and establish appropriate mitigations * Conduct flight test and safety chase, piloting our ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$126K - $157K/yr

Author air vehicle and subsystem test plans * Evaluate hazards posed by the method and scope of tests, and establish appropriate mitigations * Conduct flight test and safety chase, piloting our ...

Wisk

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$126K - $157K/yr

Author air vehicle and subsystem test plans * Evaluate hazards posed by the method and scope of tests, and establish appropriate mitigations * Conduct flight test and safety chase, piloting our ...

Credence

... Air Force Life Cycle Management Center WAM (AFLCMC/WAM) directorate, F-16 division at Wright ... Military Test Pilot with multi-disciplinary expertise in program management, test management ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192 - $240/hr

Responsibilities * authoring of air vehicle and subsystem test plans, evaluating hazards posed by ... FAA Commercial Pilot or ATP certificate (Fixed or Rotary Wing) Minimum FAA Second Class Medical ...

Wisk

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification ... Your role will involve the authoring of air vehicle and subsystem test plans, evaluating hazards ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification ... Your role will involve the authoring of air vehicle and subsystem test plans, evaluating hazards ...

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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 9, 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.

Test Pilot DER

Joby Aviation

Marina, CA • On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Company 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 looking for a driven Flight Test DER to support the planning, testing, and certification of our electric CTOL/VTOL fleet. This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply foundational principles in a new fly-by-wire environment. As a key member of our certification team, you will leverage your experience as a DER or ODA Unit Member, with the acumen to navigate the evolving certification landscape of next-generation aviation.
Responsibilities
  • Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot, 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 to provide design feedback
  • 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 in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices
  • Review, contribute, and coordinate with the FAA to complete certification and flight test compliance documents required to attain Type Certification.
  • Other duties as assigned or required

Required
  • FAA Flight Test Pilot DER-T
  • 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
  • FAA certification flight test experience
  • Experience with all-electric aircraft

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $222,400 - $286,500/yr. 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 is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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