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Experimental Test Pilot Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Work as part of a diverse team of contractor, military, and civilian experimental test pilots and engineers. * Provide technical expertise with regard to the method of test that will best achieve the ...

Work as part of a diverse team of contractor, military, and civilian experimental test pilots and engineers. * Provide technical expertise with regard to the method of test that will best achieve the ...

Utilize pilot, lab scale, and production scale extrusion equipment to generate and process ... Conduct experiments to improve upon or duplicate various materials and processes. * Recommends ...

Utilize pilot, lab scale, and production scale extrusion equipment to generate and process ... Conduct experiments to improve upon or duplicate various materials and processes. * Recommends ...

Utilize pilot, lab scale, and production scale extrusion equipment to generate and process ... Conduct experiments to improve upon or duplicate various materials and processes. * Recommends ...

Utilize pilot, lab scale, and production scale extrusion equipment to generate and process ... Conduct experiments to improve upon or duplicate various materials and processes. * Recommends ...

R&D Technician

Selma, AL ยท On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Utilize pilot, lab scale, and production scale extrusion equipment to generate and process ... Conduct experiments to improve upon or duplicate various materials and processes. * Recommends ...

Utilize pilot, lab scale, and production scale extrusion equipment to generate and process ... Conduct experiments to improve upon or duplicate various materials and processes. * Recommends ...

R&D Technician

Prattville, AL ยท On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

Utilize pilot, lab scale, and production scale extrusion equipment to generate and process ... Conduct experiments to improve upon or duplicate various materials and processes. * Recommends ...

... and pilot plant activities across the Huntsman Advanced Materials business. The primary ... Review and document experimental data and prepare analytical and technical reports on a regular ...

New Car Model Engineer

Selma, AL ยท On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Conduct testing, experimentation, and validation activities on new and existing product designs to ... Coordinate prototype builds, pilot runs, and production launches to ensure the successful ...

New Car Model Engineer

Selma, AL ยท On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Conduct testing, experimentation, and validation activities on new and existing product designs to ... Coordinate prototype builds, pilot runs, and production launches to ensure the successful ...

George Washington Carver began to experiment with peanuts (among other things) that the town truly ... Air Force helicopter pilots have also trained here since 1971, as have students from more than 60 ...

Experimental Test Pilot information

See Alabama salary details

$73.9K

$95.3K

$159.5K

How much do experimental test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for experimental test pilot in Alabama is $95,270.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,600.00 and $97,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an experimental test pilot?

Experimental test pilots are highly trained aviators who fly new or modified aircraft to evaluate their performance, safety, and handling characteristics. Their work involves pushing aircraft to their limits to identify potential issues and ensure compliance with design specifications and safety regulations. These pilots often collaborate closely with engineers and designers, providing feedback that is crucial for improving aircraft design and functionality. The role requires advanced flying skills, a strong technical background, and a keen understanding of aeronautical engineering.

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

To thrive as an Experimental Test Pilot, you need an advanced pilot license, extensive flight experience, a solid background in aeronautical engineering, and often a military test pilot school qualification. Familiarity with specialized avionics, flight data recording systems, and simulation tools is crucial for evaluating new or modified aircraft. Exceptional analytical thinking, risk management, and clear communication skills enable pilots to handle unexpected challenges and accurately report findings. These competencies ensure the safe and effective testing of aircraft, contributing to aviation innovation and safety advancements.

What are some common challenges faced by experimental test pilots during flight testing?

Experimental Test Pilots often encounter unique challenges, such as managing unexpected aircraft behaviors, rapidly adapting to evolving test parameters, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols in unproven flight conditions. They must communicate effectively with engineers and ground crews to interpret data and provide actionable feedback after each test flight. The role demands a high level of technical knowledge, quick decision-making, and a disciplined approach to risk management, as pilots may be operating aircraft with new or modified systems that have not been fully validated.

What is the difference between Experimental Test Pilot vs Test Pilot?

AspectExperimental Test PilotTest Pilot
CredentialsFAA pilot certifications, engineering background often preferredFAA pilot certifications, often with additional ratings
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aircraft development, test rangesOperational aircraft, flight testing, military or civilian settings
Industry UsageAircraft manufacturers, government agencies, research institutionsAirlines, military, private aviation

Experimental Test Pilots focus on testing new or modified aircraft in controlled environments, often requiring engineering knowledge. Test Pilots perform flight testing to evaluate aircraft performance, safety, and handling, typically in operational settings. Both roles require specialized certifications, but Experimental Test Pilots usually have a stronger engineering background and work in research environments, while Test Pilots are more involved in operational flight testing.

What are popular job titles related to Experimental Test Pilot jobs in Alabama?

For Experimental Test Pilot jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Experimental Test Pilot job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,270 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Astrion

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Overview
Senior Flight Test Engineer
LOCATION: Huntsville, AL
STATUS: Full Time
CLEARANCE: Ability to Obtain Secret
$5000 SIGN ON BONUS
Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Flight Test Engineer for the Redstone Test and Engineering Services contract, supporting the Utility Assault Division.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
  • Must possess a Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, or Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. Engineering degree must be from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited program.
  • Must possess a Bachelor's Degree and 9 to 12 years' experience, including 6 to 8 years of project experience; or a Master's Degree in the designated technical area of specialization and 7 to 10 years of combined engineering and technical experience, including 4 to 6 years of project experience..
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain an FAA Class III medical certificate.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants)

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
  • Rotary-wing or fixed-wing flight test experience, or experience in a related discipline is desired.
  • A PhD in Engineering and 5 years of applicable experience, including 2 years of project experience, performing engineering, analysis, and related functions in research, development, test and evaluation in support of military equipment and systems. Intermediate/advanced knowledge of aircraft/aircraft systems (e.g., flight controls, displays, radar, comm/nav, etc.) and/or test and evaluation experience highly desired.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Take leadership roles in planning, execution, real-time safety-of-flight and data quality monitoring, data analysis, and reporting for developmental and/or operational tests of system integrations on various aviation weapon system platforms.
  • Contribute to and document flight operations and flight test developments
  • Perform flight test engineer duties as crewmember on flight test aircraft.
  • Monitor in-flight test activities, via real-time telemetry systems or as an aircraft crewmember.
  • Work as part of a diverse team of contractor, military, and civilian experimental test pilots and engineers.
  • Provide technical expertise with regard to the method of test that will best achieve the test objectives.
  • Perform in-depth engineering data reduction and analysis.
  • Prepare/deliver presentations to colleagues, subordinates, and government representatives.
  • Additional duties include test project management for schedule and cost considerations.

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