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Day Nasa Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Test Pilot

Mojave, CA · On-site

$199K - $299K/yr

As a Test Pilot at Scaled Composites, you'll play a vital role in providing technical support for ... Standing 60% of the day * Required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment for an ...

Engineering Test Pilot

Mineral Wells, TX · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

Day- to-Day Responsibilities: * Provide test pilot expertise to assigned programs; technology/research and product development efforts to ensure man-machine interface issues and requirements are ...

Day- to-Day Responsibilities: * Provide test pilot expertise to assigned programs; technology/research and product development efforts to ensure man-machine interface issues and requirements are ...

Test Pilot

Mobile, AL · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Posted 30+ Days Agotime left to apply: End Date: June 29, 2026 (30+ days left to apply)job ... Test Pilot** to join our Engineering department based in Mobile, AL.The Test Pilot is responsible ...

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and ... The First 30 Days * Meet the team you will be working with and learn about the safety procedures ...

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and ... The First 30 Days * Meet the team you will be working with and learn about the safety procedures ...

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on ... Must have ability to travel several days in a week * Prepare, transport, and operate drone systems ...

What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on ... Must have ability to travel several days in a week * Prepare, transport, and operate drone systems ...

F-35 Test Pilot-Level 5

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$156K - $275K/yr

What You Will Be Doing As a Test Pilot you will start by supporting our F-35 efforts, but the ... The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days ...

KY · On-site

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-47G helicopter. Duties include but are not ... At ATS, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat ...

KY · On-site

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-6 helicopter. Duties include but are not ... At ATS, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat ...

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Day Nasa Test Pilot information

See salary details

$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do day nasa test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for day nasa 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.

How hard is it to get a job at JPL?

Becoming a Day NASA Test Pilot is highly competitive, requiring extensive experience in aviation, strong technical skills, and often a background in engineering or science. Candidates typically need military or civilian test pilot certification, advanced degrees, and a proven record of safety and precision in high-stakes environments.

Does NASA have test pilots?

Yes, NASA employs test pilots who are highly skilled aviators responsible for testing new aircraft, spacecraft, and systems. These pilots typically have extensive flight experience, engineering knowledge, and often hold advanced degrees, working in controlled environments such as flight test centers and research facilities.

How hard is it to become a NASA test pilot?

Becoming a NASA test pilot is highly competitive and requires extensive experience as a military or civilian pilot, often with thousands of flight hours and advanced engineering or scientific knowledge. Candidates typically need a background in aeronautical engineering, flight test training, and strong physical and mental fitness, along with a proven record of leadership and problem-solving skills. The selection process is rigorous, involving multiple interviews, evaluations, and security clearances.

How much do NASA test pilots make?

NASA test pilots typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, seniority, and specific responsibilities. They often hold advanced degrees and certifications in aeronautics or aerospace engineering and work in highly specialized environments requiring extensive flight hours and technical expertise.

What is the difference between Day Nasa Test Pilot vs Day NASA Flight Engineer?

AspectDay NASA Test PilotDay NASA Flight Engineer
CredentialsPilot certifications, engineering or aviation degreesEngineering degrees, pilot licenses often preferred
Work EnvironmentTest flights, aircraft testing facilities, research aircraftMission control, aircraft systems management, in-flight monitoring
Employer & IndustryNASA, aerospace industry, aircraft testingNASA, spacecraft and aircraft operations

Day NASA Test Pilots primarily focus on testing aircraft and spacecraft, conducting test flights to evaluate performance and safety. In contrast, Day NASA Flight Engineers manage aircraft systems during missions, ensuring operational integrity and supporting flight crews. Both roles require technical expertise, but test pilots emphasize flying and testing, while flight engineers focus on systems management and mission support.

More about Day Nasa Test Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Day Nasa Test Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Day Nasa Test Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nasa Test Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Nasa Test Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Day Nasa Test Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Day Nasa Test Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Day Nasa Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Test Pilot

$199K - $299K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

As a Test Pilot at Scaled Composites, you'll play a vital role in providing technical support for experimental and developmental aircraft and payload systems within a fast-paced design and prototyping environment. Your extensive experience and sound judgment will guide you in planning and achieving objectives. Building and maintaining strong relationships in the organization will be essential to your success.

Category: Flight Operations

Location: Mojave, CA

Citizenship Required: United States Citizenship

Clearance Type: Top Secret

Schedule: 9/80 Work Schedule

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be available

Benefits: 100% Paid Benefits and 401k Matching

Summary:

Scaled Composites is a fast-paced aerospace research company located in Mojave, CA. We are known for crafting-of-a-kind, proof-of-concept, and record setting aircraft. We look for self-starters who strive to understand the company as a whole, take ownership of their tasking, and are idea generators to progress efficiency for the overall sake of the company. This research and development environment focuses on good judgement, quick thinking, and forward progression in a short timeframe.

Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Piloting multiple experimental aircraft as well as chase, pace, photo, and target aircraft.
  • Writing detailed flight test plans, test cards, flight reports, and final test reports.
  • Leading / participating in system design and reviews as Project Pilot, in alignment with your prior engineering experience.
  • Develop test strategies, test plans and test procedures for aircraft and components, given system requirements.
  • Leading and/or participating in ground and flight test events as Test Pilot, Test Crew Member, or Test Conductor.
  • Authoring and/or updating Pilot Operating Handbooks to include development of normal and emergency procedures.
  • Participating in preflight and post flight briefings; and documenting test results.
  • Maintaining flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types.

Required Qualifications:

  • FAA Commercial Single and Multi‐Engine Land pilots license with Instrument Rating; additional ratings and Type Ratings, including CFI S/MEL and CFII, highly preferred.
  • FAA high altitude endorsement or equivalent military training.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a FAA Class II medical certificate.
  • Minimum of 1000+ hours total PIC flight time, to include recip and turbine time.
  • Full course test pilot school graduate or equivalent training and experience.
  • Minimum of 250+ hours, or 30 test sorties, of actual developmental and/or experimental flight test time documented.
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering (aeronautical/mechanical/electrical preferred) or similar technical foundation to support aircraft design and construction.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance and program access.
  • Military TPS Graduate, highly preferred.

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Knowledgeable of Federal Aviation Regulations for flight operations and aircraft certification.
  • Great verbal and written communication skills.
  • Great interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Great sales and customer service skills.
  • Great organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Great time management skills with a proven ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with emphasis on engineering disciplines.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software with the ability to learn new software, as required.
  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
  • Ability to work autonomously, as well as in a team setting.
  • Ability to travel occasionally on project aircraft trips.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Must have the ability to work in cramped, confined cockpit environments in both hot and cold environments for up to 8 hours with limited movement
  • Able to operate cockpit flight controls with center stick, yoke and side stick.
  • Able to push rudder up to 150 lbs., elevator forces up to 150 lbs., and aileron forces up to 90 lbs.
  • Must be able to enter and exit cockpit areas up to 4 feet off the ground.
  • Must be able to work in a high stress environment when required.
  • Occasional lifting up to 50+ lbs, with assistance
  • Standing 60% of the day
  • Required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment for an assigned task.
  • Occasional work with composite materials such as epoxy resin systems, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and foam/core products. Will also work closely with chemicals, such as acetone and alcohol.
  • May infrequently require lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling materials weighing up to 30 pounds.
  • Manual dexterity and coordination are required; repetitive hand motion (e.g., to operate a computer keyboard)
  • Work on varied work surfaces/environments, including but not limited to working in a busy shop environment, cold room, or in/on aircraft structures including raised platforms including but not limited to ladders, scaffolding, and stairs.
  • Work may be performed inside or outside of buildings. May be exposed to changing weather conditions (i.e. article or aircraft testing operations).
  • Must be able to pass and maintain ‘pass’ status on OSHA-approved Pulmonary Fitness Test (PFT) in order to wear a respirator for prolonged periods of time.
  • Vision at close distances and the ability to adjust focus for prolonged periods (i.e., computer screen)
  • Ability to remain sedentary or stationary for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to write for extended periods of time
  • Ability to work in an office setting for prolonged periods of time
  • May be asked to carry up to 20 lbs. up and down a flight of stairs on a regular basis such as files, books, office equipment, etc.
  • Occasionally reaching overhead and lifting up to 15 pounds
  • Ability to converse and communicate information with others
  • Occasional exposure to chemical vapors and/or fumes in low non-hazardous concentration
  • Potential to climb up and down steps daily
  • Must have sufficient agility to work in the interior of an aircraft structure. Will need to bend, stoop, squat, and/or kneel to occasionally work in cramped, tiring, and uncomfortable positions.
  • Must be able to read and understand SDS.

Scaled Composites is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, providing equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.