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Flight Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Test Pilot IV

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

This position is responsible for serving as Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and/or Flight Examiner. Subject matter expert for all aspects of the company's family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems to ...

Northrop Grumman

Sr Staff Test Pilot

Melbourne, FL

$201K - $302K/yr

The CTP is a key participant in the flight test risk management process. Key Responsibilities: * Building and sustaining a cadre of skilled test pilots and production pilots to safely execute the ...

Ag

Test Pilot

Mobile, AL · On-site

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 ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply ... Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot, chase pilot ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply ... Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot, chase pilot ...

Lockheed Martin

F-35 Test Pilot-Level 5

Fort Worth, TX · Hybrid

Lockheed Martin Flight Operations is looking for an energetic test pilot who wants to make a difference. We want a person who is willing to provide leadership, apply technical acumen, and make the ...

Airbus Aircraft

Test Pilot

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 ...

Wisk

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA

$192K - $240K/yr

As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians, flight test engineers, system engineers and our certification group to verify and ...

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Flight Test Pilot information

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$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do flight test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for flight 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 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.

More about Flight Test Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Flight Test Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Flight Test Pilot job openings:
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What states have the most Flight Test Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Flight Test Pilot jobs include:
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Flight Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flight Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Senior/Staff Flight Research Test Pilot

Senior/Staff Flight Research Test Pilot

Joby Aviation

Concord, CA • On-site

$149K - $255K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Joby Flight Research designs, develops, and flight-tests novel aircraft using a software-first autonomy approach. We build and deploy autonomy, perception, planning, and radar systems across conventional, electric, and hydrogen-electric aircraft in both CTOL and VTOL configurations.


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 your experience from (ideally) crewed and UAS the role will fulfill pilot command duties during developmental and operational flight testing. 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 <25% travel, will travel to occasional deployed testing including participation in military exercises.


  • Act both as the airborne and remote pilot in command for various R&D aircraft platforms depending on the phase of the program
  • Uphold standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements
  • Uphold a strong safety culture
  • Create test plans, cards, and reports
  • Conduct data analysis
  • Collaborate with other crewmembers in preparation, execution, and post test activities
  • Provide detailed feedback and recommendations for system improvements
  • Play an active role in engineering design activities with a particular emphasis on human interfaces and airspace integration

  • FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
  • Instrument Airplane rating
  • A second class (or better) medical certificate
  • A minimum of 1500 hours pilot in command (PIC) flight time and 300 hours of turbine time
  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field, preferably Engineering
  • At least 8 years of experience in flight test position
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
  • Read and speak English proficiently
  • Willingness to work extended hours
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for business purposes

This position must meet US export control compliance requirements, therefore a candidate must qualify as a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15. “US Person” includes US Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.


  • SETP recognized Test Pilot School Graduate
  • FAA certified flight instructor
  • Leadership positions in a flight test organization
  • C-208 experience
  • Experience in highly automated aircraft
  • Experience as an operator/pilot of UAS system(s) 

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $149,000 - $255,000/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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