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Flight Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Joby Aviation

Flight Test DER

Marina, CA

$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

Test Pilot C-130J-Level 5

Marietta, GA · On-site

We are Lockheed Martin You will be a C-130J Test Pilot for the C-130 Flight Operations team. Our team is responsible for conducting acceptance check flights of newly assembled C-130J aircraft and ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Lockheed Martin

Test Pilot C-130J-Level 5

Marietta, GA · On-site

We are Lockheed Martin You will be a C-130J Test Pilot for the C-130 Flight Operations team. Our team is responsible for conducting acceptance check flights of newly assembled C-130J aircraft and ...

Scaled Composites

Test Pilot

Mojave, CA · On-site

$199K - $299K/yr

As a Test Pilot at Scaled Composites, you'll play a vital role in providing technical support for ... Flight Operations Location: Mojave, CA Citizenship Required: United States Citizenship Clearance ...

JetZero

Senior Flight Test Engineer

Long Beach, CA

The Senior Flight Test Engineer acts as a primary technical authority during test planning and execution, working directly with flight test pilots, engineering leadership, and flight operations to ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Test Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$107K - $174K/yr

Advises the flight test pilot of nature of the data to inform real time decisions affecting safety, efficiency and effectiveness * Develop expert level knowledge of the systems and aircraft under ...

Archer

Flight Test Safety Program Manager

Salinas, CA · On-site

Foster a strong safety culture within flight testing by being visibly present in daytoday operations, engaging with pilots, test personnel, engineers, technicians, and operations staff. * Facilitate ...

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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:
What are the most commonly searched types of Flight Test Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Flight Test Pilot jobs are:
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.
Flight Test DER

Flight Test DER

Joby Aviation

Marina, CA

$222K - $286K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

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. Since 2009, our team has worked steadily to make this dream a reality. We've designed and tested many generations of prototype aircraft capable of serving in a network of electric air taxis. We're looking for talented, committed individuals to join our team as we push onward toward certifying the Joby aircraft, scaling our manufacturing, and launching our initial commercial service.

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 training and the flexibility to apply foundational principles in a new fly-by-wire environment. As a key member of our certification team, you will leverage your experience as a DER or ODA Unit Member, with the acumen to navigate the evolving certification landscape of next-generation aviation.

Responsibilities
  • Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot, 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 to provide design feedback
  • 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 in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices
  • Review, contribute, and coordinate with the FAA to complete certification and flight test compliance documents required to attain Type Certification.  
  • Other duties as assigned or required
Required
  • FAA Flight Test Pilot DER-T 
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
  • Read and speak English proficiently
Desired
  • Both fixed-wing and rotary-wing flight test experience
  • FAA certification flight test experience
  • Experience with all-electric aircraft

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $222,400 - $286,500/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.

Additional Information

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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