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Engineering Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Test Pilot is responsible for ensuring the proper execution of ground and flight tests on A220 ... Meet the team: Our Engineers at the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing facility take our aircraft from ...

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. ... As a Senior Test Pilot for Stratolaunch's carrier aircraft, you will have the opportunity to ...

Test Pilot

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

Prepare mission cards and assist in planning the flight missions to meet Engineering requirements ... Part 61 Private Pilot License * Instrument rating * 3 years of developmental test experience * 10 ...

The Chief Test Pilot (CTP) is a key contributor to the program and sits on the program leadership ... Support the Chief Engineer on various design trades and analysis * Chair the pilot working group

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Joining a small, fast moving team this position will support the full spectrum of test pilot duties as well as supporting engineering development activities. Location: Concord, CA with ...

The Test Pilot is responsible for ensuring the proper execution of ground and flight tests on A220 ... Meet the team: Our Engineers at the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing facility take our aircraft from ...

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Play an active role in engineering design activities with a particular emphasis on human interfaces ... At least 3 years of experience in as a test pilot * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to ...

Play an active role in engineering design activities with a particular emphasis on human interfaces ... At least 3 years of experience in as a test pilot * Excellent interpersonal skills * Ability to ...

Prepare mission cards and assist in planning the flight missions to meet Engineering requirements ... Part 61 Private Pilot License * Instrument rating * 3 years of developmental test experience * 10 ...

We're hiring engineers, operators, and builders who want to move fast, take on extreme ownership ... What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on ...

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

We're hiring engineers, operators, and builders who want to move fast, take on extreme ownership ... What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on ...

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Engineering Test Pilot information

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$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do engineering test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 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 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 are engineering test pilots?

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, and why are they important?

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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Engineering Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Test Pilot

Ag

Mobile, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Airbus is committed to providing reasonable accommodations as an Equal Opportunity Employer to applicants with disabilities. If you require assistance or an accommodation to complete your application, please contact us at USCareers@airbus.com

  • Notice: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
  • Notice: Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination (English)
  • Aviso: Transparencia en el Pago No Discriminacion(Spanish)

Job Description:

Airbus Commercial Aircraft is looking for a Test Pilot to join our Engineering department based in Mobile, AL.The Test Pilot is responsible for ensuring the proper execution of ground and flight tests on A220 and A320 production aircraft.

Meet the team:

Our Engineers at the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing facility take our aircraft from concept to customer delivery - working with production teams on every aspect of assembly from managing technical information, quality control, maintenance tasks and health & safety - along flowlines and flight lines. Join our team and watch our aircraft come to life.

Your working environment:

Nearby on 'Airbus Way' you will find the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility for commercial aircraft. Opened at the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley in 2015, the facility produces A320 Family aircraft and added a second product line for the A220 in 2019. The facility, which strengthens the U.S. aerospace industry, is part of Airbus' strategy to enhance its global competitiveness by meeting the growing needs of its customers in the United States and beyond.


How we care for you:

  • Financial Rewards: Competitive base salary, incentive compensation which may include profit sharing schemes, retirement savings plan and the ability to participate in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP")

  • Work/Life Balance: Paid time off including personal time, holidays and a generous paid parental leave program.

  • Health & Welfare: Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical (traditional and high-deductible health plans), prescription, dental, vision, life, disability, Employee Assistance Plan ("EAP") and other supplemental benefit coverages.

  • Individual Development: Upskilling and development opportunities through our global Leadership University, including unlimited access to 10,000+ e-learning courses focusing on ways to develop your employability, certifications, career path as well as the opportunity to participate in accelerated development programmes and both national and international mobility.

At Airbus, we support you to work, connect and collaborate more easily and accessibly. Wherever possible, we support flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking.

Your challenges:

  • Responsibility for the entire flight, including signing the flight order prepared and co-signed by the L-FTE.

  • Captain, under DOA privilege and by delegation of the HO Flight Test, approves flight conditions according to Airbus procedure.

  • Strictly adhere to the authorized flight test plan. Based on real-time flight analysis, instrumentation issues, changing weather, or aircraft serviceability, the L-FTE may modify the flight test plan in-flight with the Captain's concurrence, provided it complies with the authorized flight envelope and aircraft limitations. The Captain always retains the right to delete unsuitable items from the existing Flight Order.

  • Attending post-flight technical debriefs and liaising with Engineering staff to expedite the resolution of faults or observations found during approved test flights.

  • The Captain is responsible for ensuring all ground and in-flight arrangements are made for safe and efficient flight conduct, including all briefings in coordination with the I-FTE and dispatch.

  • Continuous engagement with customers during the delivery process and dedicated customer-focused activities to effectively communicate Airbus's approved positions on major industry issues and flight test matters.

  • May be required to perform other tasks within the broader Flight Test perimeter, such as assisting Training Departments, conducting external flights (e.g., lease-recovery, developmental flights, commercial events), short-term assistance to other Flight Test centers (e.g., Toulouse, Hamburg, Tianjin, Mirabel), and attending/presenting at conferences.

Your boarding pass:

  • Graduate of an EASA recognized flight test school (ETPS, EPNER, USNTPS, USAFTPS, NTPS and ITPS)

  • 3000+ total flight hours.

  • Flight test pilot experience of greater than 1000 flight hours.

  • Current multi-pilot instrument rating

  • ICAO ATPL that is eligible for conversion to an EASA ATPL

  • ICAO English Level 5

  • Recent Fly-By-Wire (FBW) experience

  • Demonstrates a refined approach to communication that resolves problems, facilitates consensus, and focuses on objectives

  • Capable of working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment both independently and collectively.

  • Dependable, self-motivated and accessible.

  • Ability to travel unaccompanied to international destinations (approx. 3 months);

  • Ability to work flexible and extended hours as required (nights, weekends and holidays) within the scope of the Airbus Flight Operations Manual.

  • Authorized to Work in the US

Physical Requirements:

  • Onsite or remote: Onsite 100%

  • Vision: able to see and read computer screens and other electronic equipment with screens, able to read documents, reports and engineering drawings.

  • Hearing: able to participate in conversations in person and via teleconference or phone and to hear sounds on the production floor including safety warnings or alarms.

  • Speaking: able to speak in conversations and meetings, deliver information and participate in communications.

  • Equipment Operation (personal computer, telephone, copies, fax machine, and related office equipment and using electronic identification card to enter building floors and internal doors): able to operate most office and personal electronic equipment and some tools including production tools such as hydraulic lifts.

  • Carrying: able to carry documents, tools, drawings, electronic equipment up to 30lbs/14kgs.

  • Lifting: able to lift documents, tools, drawings, electronic equipment up to 30lbs/14kgs.

  • Pushing / Pulling: able to push and pull small office furniture and some equipment and tools.

  • Sitting: able to sit for long periods of time in meetings, working on the computer.

  • Squatting / Kneeling: able to squat or kneel to retrieve or replace items stored on low shelving.

  • Standing: able to stand for discussions in offices or on the production floor.

  • Travel: able to travel independently and at short notice.

  • Walking (include routine walking such as to a shared printer to retrieve documents): able to walk through office and production areas including uneven surfaces.

  • Personal Protective Equipment required: Required PPE includes, but is not limited to, Safety Shoes, Safety Glasses, Hearing Protection, Respirators/Masks, and/or Protective Gloves as required by site and/or customer site.


Take your career to a new level and apply online now!


This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company's success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company:

Airbus Americas, Inc.

Employment Type:

US - Direct Hire

Experience Level:

Professional

Remote Type:

On-site

Job Family:

Testing

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Job Posting End Date: 12.31.2026

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Airbus provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetics, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status or other legally protected status. In addition to federal law requirements, Airbus complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, demotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, benefits and training. Airbus expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetics, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status or other legally protected status. As a matter of policy, Airbus does not sponsor visas for US positions unless specified. Only applicants with current work authorization will be considered. Airbus does not offer tenured or guaranteed employment. Employment with Airbus is at will, meaning either the company or the employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause, with or without notice. Airbus reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. This position description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

By submitting your CV or application you are consenting to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment. This information will only be used by Airbus.
Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.

Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported toemsom@airbus.com.