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Helicopter Test Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Skyryse

Experimental Test Pilot

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during ... Execute experimental flight tests in a rotorcraft helicopter that directly shape the future of ...

Skyryse

Experimental Test Pilot

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during ... Execute experimental flight tests in a rotorcraft helicopter that directly shape the future of ...

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Helicopter Test Pilot information

See California salary details

$80.4K

$103.7K

$173.7K

How much do helicopter test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for helicopter 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 is a helicopter test pilot?

A Helicopter Test Pilot is responsible for evaluating the performance, safety, and capabilities of helicopters by conducting test flights under various conditions. They assess new aircraft designs, modifications, and system upgrades to ensure they meet regulatory and operational standards. Test pilots work closely with engineers, providing crucial feedback to improve aircraft performance and safety. Their role requires advanced piloting skills, extensive flight experience, and often a background in aerospace engineering or military aviation.

What does a helicopter test pilot do?

A typical day for a Helicopter Test Pilot includes preparing detailed flight plans, conducting ground checks, executing flight tests to evaluate new systems or modifications, and meticulously recording flight data. After flights, test pilots work closely with aerospace engineers and technicians to analyze results, discuss any anomalies, and recommend improvements based on their firsthand observations. Collaboration is a key part of the role, as pilots and engineers regularly meet to review objectives, share safety concerns, and ensure that each test meets regulatory and performance standards. This teamwork ensures that all helicopter systems are thoroughly evaluated and refined for optimal safety and efficiency before reaching customers or entering broader operational use.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a helicopter test pilot?

To thrive as a Helicopter Test Pilot, you need advanced piloting expertise, a deep understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft systems, and typically a commercial or military pilot license with significant rotary-wing flight hours. Familiarity with flight data recording equipment, simulation tools, and aviation safety management systems is critical, as well as certifications for specialized test pilot training. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure safe and precise evaluation of aircraft performance, support efficient teamwork, and uphold rigorous safety standards during test flights.

What are popular job titles related to Helicopter Test Pilot jobs in California?

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Helicopter Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Helicopter Test Pilot job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,733 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Experimental Flight Test Pilot

ROBINSON HELICOPTER CO INC

Torrance, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

   JOB SUMMARY:

Robinson Helicopters is a leading manufacturer of civil rotorcraft with a 50 year history of providing affordable helicopters for a wide range of applications.  Robinson Helicopters is an engineering focused organization that provides challenging and exciting opportunities to contribute to the future of vertical flight.

As an Experimental Test Pilot at Robinson Helicopter, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development and certification of the most widely used civil helicopters in the world.  The Experimental Flight Test Pilot is part of a small and nimble flight test team that plans, executes, analyzes, and reports on ground and flight test of experimental rotorcraft and/or systems.  You will be challenged with bringing unique and complex aircraft from development through certification.     

  RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Serve as PIC for development, research, and certification flight tests of experimental rotorcraft.
  • Conduct varying, complex flight test projects for rotorcraft including writing flight test plans, test cards, flight reports, and test reports.
  • Lead and/or participate in ground and flight tests as pilot, test crew member, or Test Conductor.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to develop test strategies, determine test configurations, plan, and execute test programs in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.
  • Comply with department processes and standard operating procedures to ensure flight testing is accomplished with high levels of safety, effectiveness, consistency, and efficiency.
  • Contribute insights and innovations to improve the product and organization.
  • Participate in multi-disciplinary design reviews and assist with resolving cross-functional technical issues.
  • Participate in the Flight Test Safety Program to ensure safety objectives are accomplished including participation in flight test plan reviews, test flights, pre and post test flight briefings, and test readiness reviews.
  • Interface with regulator (FAA, EASA, TCCA, etc) flight test personnel to conduct flight test aspects of aircraft certification.
  • Maintain required records and conduct audits to verify compliance with processes and procedures.
  • Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types.

  REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering field or equivalent experience.
  • FAA Commercial Helicopter Pilot Certificate.
  • FAA Second Class Medical.
  • Minimum 1,000 hrs Helicopter PIC time.
  • Experience in multiple makes and models of rotorcraft.
  • Significant experience managing Risk and Safety in an aviation application.
  • Excellent academic record.
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Team-oriented, possess a positive attitude, and works well with others.
  • Able to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel periodically.
  • Proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong project management, organization, and risk management skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office products and engineering software tools

  DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Pilot graduate of a SETP recognized test pilot school long course.
  • Experience in development and certification flight test programs.
  • DER and/or ODA experience.
  • Previous experience as a production test pilot or maintenance pilot.
  • Master’s degree in engineering.
  • Human-to-vehicle interface design, test and evaluation experience.
  • FAA Helicopter Instructor pilot certificate and experience.
  • Experience with flight control development.
  • Experience managing Risk and Safety in the flight test environment.

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