ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Engineering Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA · On-site

$214K - $321K/yr

Provides engineering test pilot expertise and safety guidance to flight test engineers for design definition, simulator flights, test planning, flight test techniques, test conduct, test reporting ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA · On-site

$214K - $321K/yr

Provides engineering test pilot expertise and safety guidance to flight test engineers for design definition, simulator flights, test planning, flight test techniques, test conduct, test reporting ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other ...

Wisk Aero LLC

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$159 - $199/hr

As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians and flight test engineers as well as cognizant systems engineers and the ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187.40 - $250/hr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other ...

Wisk Aero

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$159 - $199/hr

As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians and flight test engineers as well as cognizant systems engineers and the ...

Wisk

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA

$159K - $199K/yr

As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians and flight test engineers as well as cognizant systems engineers and the ...

Wisk Aero

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$159K - $199K/yr

As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians and flight test engineers as well as cognizant systems engineers and the ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt ... Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192 - $240/hr

Graduate of an engineering test pilot school or program. * Depth of experience with both Flight and Operations Safety Risk Management * Capability to work within the engineering organization to ...

Scaled Composites

Test Pilot

Mojave, CA · On-site

$199K - $299K/yr

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 ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians, flight test engineers, system engineers and our certification group to verify and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsAir Safety Inspector JobsEngineering Test Pilot Jobs

Engineering Test Pilot information

See salary details

$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do engineering test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering 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 engineering test pilot?

Engineering test pilots are specialized aviators responsible for flying prototype, experimental, or modified aircraft to evaluate their performance, handling, and safety. They work closely with aircraft engineers and designers to collect data, identify issues, and provide feedback that informs design improvements. Their role is critical in the development and certification of new or updated aircraft, ensuring they meet regulatory and safety standards. Engineering test pilots must have advanced flying skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to assess complex systems under various flight conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering test pilot?

To thrive as an Engineering Test Pilot, you need an advanced pilot license (often ATP or military equivalent), a strong engineering or aeronautical background, and extensive flight experience. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, data analysis software, and certification processes such as FAA or EASA regulations is crucial. Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and risk management skills set top candidates apart in this high-stakes field. These abilities are essential for safely conducting test flights, accurately evaluating aircraft performance, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to advance aerospace innovation.

What are some common challenges faced by engineering test pilots during flight testing, and how are they addressed?

Engineering Test Pilots often encounter challenges such as unexpected aircraft behavior, rapidly changing test parameters, and the need to communicate complex technical feedback to engineers. To address these challenges, they follow strict safety protocols, participate in extensive pre-flight briefings, and work closely with multidisciplinary teams to anticipate and mitigate risks. Continuous training and simulation exercises also help test pilots prepare for a range of scenarios, ensuring that data collected is accurate and safety is maintained throughout the testing process.

What is the difference between Engineering Test Pilot vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectEngineering Test PilotFlight Test Engineer
CredentialsPilot certifications, engineering backgroundEngineering degree, flight testing experience
Work EnvironmentIn-flight testing, aircraft operationGround testing, data analysis
Industry UsageAerospace, defense, aircraft developmentAerospace, aircraft certification

Engineering Test Pilots primarily operate aircraft during flight tests, combining piloting skills with engineering knowledge. Flight Test Engineers focus on planning, data collection, and analysis during testing, often working on the ground. Both roles are essential in aerospace development but differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

Do engineering test pilots get paid well?

Engineering test pilots typically earn high salaries due to the specialized skills, extensive training, and safety responsibilities involved. Compensation can vary based on experience, employer, and location but generally includes competitive pay, benefits, and allowances for working in demanding environments. Experienced test pilots often earn six-figure salaries.

How much does an engineering test pilot earn?

Engineering test pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the employer. Senior or specialized test pilots working for major aerospace companies can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000 with additional benefits.

How to become an engineering test pilot?

To become an engineering test pilot, candidates typically need a background as a licensed pilot with extensive flight experience, often in military or civilian aviation. They usually hold an engineering degree or have technical expertise related to aircraft systems and undergo specialized training in aircraft testing and safety protocols. Certification from agencies like the FAA or equivalent is also essential, along with experience in high-performance aircraft and strong problem-solving skills.
More about Engineering Test Pilot jobs

What states have the most Engineering Test Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Engineering Test Pilot jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Engineering Test Pilot jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Engineering Test Pilot jobs are:

Engineering Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engineering Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% 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.

Engineering Test Pilot, Experimental Flight Test

Bombardier Transportation GmbH

Wichita, KS • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Engineering Test Pilot, Experimental Flight Test

Position located in Wichita, KS, USA. The role is part of the Learjet Inc organization within the Aviation Division and represents a regular, full‑time employee status.

Benefits Program
  • Insurance plans (Dental, medical, life insurance, disability, and more)
  • Competitive base salary
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tele Health Program
Contributions to the Team
  • Provide technical expertise related to flight test and aircraft operational issues in support of design development activities.
  • Work closely with Flight Test Engineers assigned to the aircraft; oversee and audit the technical content of all test procedures.
  • Provide technical leadership as project pilot to other test pilots assigned to the same flight test program; serve as the central point of contact for all pilot/operational issues throughout the program, presenting the coordinated position on these issues.
  • Review and provide inputs for flight manuals, flight manual supplements, pilot manuals and other technical engineering reports.
  • Conduct briefings for company management reviews, FAA, Transport Canada, and other foreign Certification Authorities as necessary.
  • Act as the direct liaison with test pilot groups in FAA/Transport Canada on specific technical or schedule issues.
  • Conduct developmental and certification flight tests on experimental airplanes.
How to Thrive in This Role
  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
  • Hold the appropriate US or Canadian Airline Transport Pilot License (ATP/ATPL), or attain it within 6 months of hire.
  • Hold a First Class FAA medical or equivalent.
  • Have practical experience in flight test techniques, procedures, and requirements.
  • Have a minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a test pilot (PIC) in experimental flight test.
  • Demonstrate strong written and spoken communication skills.
  • Have a minimum of 1500 hours, including 300 hours of turbine‑powered flight experience as pilot.
  • Be willing to work irregular hours and travel on short notice.
  • Possess interpersonal skills necessary to work effectively with a variety of individuals, departments, and organizations.
  • Have practical experience with FAA, Transport Canada, and JAA certification processes and procedures.
  • Demonstrate the highest standards of integrity.
  • Be a graduate of an accredited test pilot school (USAF, Navy, French, Empire or National Test Pilot School).
  • Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in engineering or a related discipline.
  • Have prior experience as a DER/UM/DAD test pilot.

Now that you can see yourself in this role, apply and join the Bombardier Team!

Bombardier is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, National, or Local Laws.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply