Entry Level Aircraft Performance Engineer Jobs in California

Job Description
Tests aircraft to determine compliance with specification and operational suitability. Operates models of test aircraft during engineering flight tests, production acceptance, and flight test support through specifically prescribed tests and maneuvers. Coordinates flight operations efforts. Approves cockpit configuration. May conduct demonstration flights with customers, government officials, or other personnel aboard to exhibit aircraft performance, flying qualities and system capabilities.
What You Will Be Doing
As the U-2 Pilot - Skunk Works you will be responsible for testing and operating advanced aircraft to validate performance and support mission readiness.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Conducting flight tests to verify aircraft compliance with specifications and operational suitability.
- Operating test aircraft during engineering flight tests, production acceptance, and flight-test support.
-Coordinating flight-operations efforts and collaborating with engineering teams.
- Approving cockpit configurations and ensuring safety standards are met.
- Performing demonstration flights for customers, government officials, and other stakeholders to exhibit aircraft performance, flying qualities and system capabilities.
What's In It For You
We are committed to supporting your work-life balance and overall well-being, offering flexible scheduling options. Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here. Do you want to be part of a company culture that empowers employees to think big, lead with a growth mindset, and make the impossible a reality? We provide the resources and give you the flexibility to enable inspiration and focus - if you have the passion and courage to dream big, work hard, and have fun doing what you love then we want to build a better tomorrow with you.
Who You Are
A highly skilled aviator with extensive experience in test-flight operations, strong analytical abilities, and a collaborative mindset. You thrive in high-stakes environments, possess excellent communication skills, and are committed to delivering precise, reliable results.
Further Information About This Opportunity
This position is in Palmdale, CA Discover Palmdale.
MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN - This position is located at a facility that requires special access. The selected candidate must possess an active Top Secret clearance to start.
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Basic Qualifications
• No greater than 2 years outside of qualification on the U-2S Dragonlady.
• Current FAA Class I or II medical certificate.
• Suitable FAA Commercial Pilot (ME Land, Instrument Airplane) or Airline Transport Pilot certificate.
• Must be willing to travel and have a valid U.S. passport
• TOP SECRET security clearance
Desired skills
• 1,000 hours first pilot time.
• Graduate of a formal Test Pilot School.
• Experience in all flight test disciplines to include weapons, avionics, and flight sciences.
• Instructor/training experience a plus.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Program Management/Leadership Integration
EEO
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
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At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you're invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Other Important Information
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Work Schedule Information
Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
National Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $156,400 - $275,655. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Premium Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in most major metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, and New York is $179,800 - $311,650. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
This position is incentive plan eligible.