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Flight Test Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187.40 - $250/hr

Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting

Stratolaunch

Sr. Test Pilot

Mojave, CA

As a Senior Test Pilot for Stratolaunch's carrier aircraft, you will have the opportunity to ... You will provide comprehensive flight test technical support for experimental and developmental ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing on ...

Stratolaunch

Sr. Test Pilot

Mojave, CA · On-site

We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology ... As a Senior Test Pilot for Stratolaunch's carrier aircraft, you will have the opportunity to ...

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 ...

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 DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation is looking for a driven Flight Test DER to support the planning, testing, and certification of our electric CTOL/VTOL fleet. This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot ...

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Flight Test Pilot information

See California salary details

$80.4K

$103.7K

$173.7K

How much do flight test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight test pilot in California is $103,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for a Flight Test Pilot?

A typical day for a Flight Test Pilot involves thorough pre-flight briefings with engineers and technicians, reviewing test objectives, meticulously planning flight profiles, and conducting test flights to evaluate aircraft performance, systems, and safety features. After each flight, the pilot collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to debrief, document results, and discuss any anomalies or findings. Besides flying, significant time is spent analyzing data, preparing reports, and refining test procedures. The role often requires adaptability and close teamwork, as flight test schedules and objectives can evolve based on weather, technical readiness, or program priorities.

Are test pilots still a thing?

Yes, test pilots are still a vital part of the aerospace industry, responsible for evaluating new aircraft and systems. They typically hold advanced pilot certifications, such as an Airline Transport Pilot license, and work closely with engineers to ensure aircraft safety and performance during development and certification phases.

How much does a flight test pilot make?

A flight test pilot's salary varies based on experience, employer, and location, but typically ranges from $80,000 to over $150,000 annually. Experienced test pilots working for aerospace companies or government agencies can earn higher salaries, especially when combined with specialized certifications and extensive flight hours.

How much do flight testers make?

Flight test pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the aircraft tested. Senior or specialized test pilots in aerospace companies can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as travel allowances and performance bonuses.

Is being a test pilot worth it?

A flight test pilot plays a critical role in evaluating aircraft performance and safety, often working for aerospace companies or military organizations. The job requires advanced flying skills, certifications, and the ability to handle high-stress situations, with compensation reflecting the specialized expertise involved. While it offers unique challenges and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge aircraft, it also involves significant risk and demanding schedules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Flight Test Pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Test Pilot, you need exceptional piloting skills, in-depth knowledge of aeronautical engineering, and a degree in a related field, often supplemented by military or advanced civilian test pilot school training. Familiarity with specialized flight data recording equipment, flight test instrumentation, and certification from organizations like the FAA or EASA is often required. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and meticulous attention to detail distinguish top performers in this role. These qualifications are critical for safely conducting complex test flights, analyzing results, and ensuring new or modified aircraft meet rigorous safety and performance standards.

What is a Flight Test Pilot job?

A Flight Test Pilot is responsible for flying and evaluating new or modified aircraft to assess their performance, safety, and compliance with regulations. They work closely with engineers to test systems, aerodynamics, and handling characteristics under various conditions. Their role involves executing test plans, documenting results, and providing critical feedback for aircraft development. Flight Test Pilots often have extensive experience in aviation, advanced training in aerodynamics and flight testing, and may hold military or engineering backgrounds.

What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Pilot jobs in California? The most popular types of Flight Test Pilot jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Flight Test Pilot jobs in California? For Flight Test Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Flight Test Pilot jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Flight Test Pilot jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Flight Test Pilot jobs? Cities in California with the most Flight Test Pilot job openings:
Flight Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Pilot job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,733 per year, or $49.9 per hour.
Test Pilot

Test Pilot

Joby Aviation

Marina, CA

$187K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.


Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven test pilot to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes planning and flight testing experimental CTOL/VTOL fly-by-wire aircraft and supporting all certification flight test related activities. Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is desired.


  • Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting
  • Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes
  • Contribute to flight readiness reviews, test safety reviews, and other flight test admin activities
  • Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities
  • Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked
  • Complete all required documentation in accordance with established company and FAA procedures
  • Observe all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company
  • Expected to work safely by established operating procedures and practices
  • Other duties as assigned or required

  • Long course graduate of recognized test pilot school or, exceptionally, equivalent on-the-job training
  • At least 3 years additional flight test experience post training, with at least 50 hours experimental or certification flight test experience as test pilot
  • Bachelor's of Science degree or equivalent experience and training
  • Fixed Wing and / or Rotorcraft Commercial Certificate
  • A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
  • Read and speak English proficiently

  • Both fixed wing and rotary wing flight test experience, with principal experience in fixed wing
  • AV-8 or F-35B experience and/or V-22 experience
  • FAA certification flight test experience
  • Flight instructional experience
  • Test pilot school instructional experience
  • Experience with all-electric aircraft
  • Flight test DER or AR

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $187,400 - $250,000/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.


Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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