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Entry Level Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician

Ithaca, NY ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

This is a great entry-level opportunity for someone looking to get into the life science industry ... Perform routine laboratory, kitchen, or pilot plant procedures according to established protocols.

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Entry Level Test Pilot information

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$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do entry level test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 the difference between Entry Level Test Pilot vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Test PilotFlight Test Engineer
Required CredentialsCommercial pilot license, flight hours, basic engineering knowledgeEngineering degree, specialized training in aeronautics, flight testing experience
Work EnvironmentAircraft testing, flight operations, on-aircraft assessmentsGround-based analysis, data collection, test planning
Employer & IndustryAircraft manufacturers, defense agencies, aerospace companiesAircraft manufacturers, aerospace research organizations

Entry Level Test Pilots primarily focus on flying aircraft during testing phases, requiring pilot licenses and flight experience. Flight Test Engineers support testing from the ground, analyzing data and planning tests, often with engineering backgrounds. Both roles are essential in aerospace testing but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Entry Level Test Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Test Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Test Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Test Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Test Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Test Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Test Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Lafayette, IN โ€ข On-site

$65K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 hours ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry Level candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff in the development of large diesel or gas engine sub-systems. Work will include product design, product improvement, cost reduction, and product health in large engine systems. The work will be highly collaborative with both internal customers and external suppliers.

Responsibilities

  • Participate in design, development, build, and validation related to diesel and natural gas engines.
  • Collaborate with design teams to develop new engine systems used in Oil and Gas applications.
  • Work with validation and system engineers to ensure completion of FMEAs and activities needed to fully validate engine designs.
  • Support engine performance development and validation in test cells
  • Improve and maintain Bill of Material (BOM) tracking tool for upcoming, current, and field test engines.
  • Coordinate the completion of Virtual Design Review Audits (VDRAs) for NPI proto and pilot builds.
  • Responsible for prove design parts management, ordering, and shipping to support prototype builds, lab or field testing.
  • Track and resolve issues discovered during build and test processes.
  • Manage releasing and procurement status for new component designs.
  • Create and update Teamcenter engine arrangement (ARC) models.
  • Work with factory technicians to assemble prototype and field follow engines.
  • Coordinate virtual & on engine safety and serviceability audits to be completed and complete the appropriate follow-up activities that result.
  • Collaborate with other groups (Engineering, Marketing, Purchasing, etc.) as necessary.
  • Travel to supplier or customer sites pending project need (up to ~5%)

Requirements

  • BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience.
  • Entry level candidates and experienced candidates will be considered.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude demonstrated through work experience or hobbies.
  • Excellent communication both written and verbal.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and commitments.
  • Strong analytical, problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.
  • Ability to travel (less than 10% of time).

Desired Attributes

  • Experience with the APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) process.
  • Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; Creo (Pro/Engineer) experience.
  • Previous experience with Teamcenter or other PDM software.
  • Experience with manufacturing processes.
  • Design experience or exposure to off-road mobile equipment or engines.
  • Experience with shop or factory support.
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment focusing on robust & cost effective design.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $65,000-$78,000 โ€“ Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly