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Humanitarian Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LTA Research

Flight Test Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Collaborate with engineers, test pilots, and operations team to accomplish test objectives safely ... Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that ...

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How much do humanitarian pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for humanitarian pilot in the United States is $123,645.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $179,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by humanitarian pilots in the field?

Humanitarian pilots often encounter challenging flying conditions, such as unpaved runways, rapidly changing weather, and limited navigation infrastructure. They may work in remote or conflict-affected regions where logistical support is minimal and quick decision-making is vital. Coordinating with diverse teams—including international organizations, local authorities, and on-the-ground aid workers—is a regular part of the job and requires strong teamwork and communication skills. Despite these challenges, many pilots find the work rewarding due to its direct impact on communities in need and the meaningful relationships built with colleagues and local partners.

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

To thrive as a Humanitarian Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, extensive flight experience (often in remote or challenging environments), and strong navigational skills. Proficiency in avionics systems, GPS navigation, and aircraft maintenance checks is important, along with certifications such as an instrument rating and sometimes additional humanitarian-specific training. Outstanding situational awareness, adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies are essential for safely and efficiently delivering aid and personnel to difficult-to-reach areas, often under urgent and unpredictable conditions.

What is a Humanitarian Pilot job?

A Humanitarian Pilot is a professional pilot who flies aircraft to support humanitarian missions, such as delivering aid, transporting medical personnel, evacuating people from crisis zones, or conducting aerial surveys in disaster-stricken areas. These pilots often work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), humanitarian agencies, or specialized aviation services. They operate in challenging environments, including remote regions, war zones, and areas affected by natural disasters. Their role is critical in ensuring rapid response and aid distribution to vulnerable populations.

More about Humanitarian Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Humanitarian Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Humanitarian Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Humanitarian Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Humanitarian Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Humanitarian Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Humanitarian Pilot jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Humanitarian Pilot jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Humanitarian Pilot jobs are:
Humanitarian Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Humanitarian Pilot job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,645 per year, or $59.4 per hour.
Flight Test Engineer

Flight Test Engineer

LTA Research

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Flight Test Engineer to work closely as part of the Flight Test team, working with ground and flight operations, engineering, and other LTA teams, to develop test plans and to direct flight test efforts for our revolutionary large rigid airship flying from Moffett Field in Sunnyvale, CA. 

We're looking for an engineer who is excited to execute flight test 'firsts' and to lay the foundation for enabling safe, efficient flight testing. The Flight Test Engineer will develop test plans & test hazard analyses (THA), draft airship limitations, lead ground & flight tests, perform data analysis, write test reports, and document test results. This position will also contribute to the development and review of the Airship Flight Manual (AFM) and other operational documents by collaborating with multiple teams to provide pertinent information.

Responsibilities
  • Produce test documentation such as test plans, hazard analyses and test cards.
  • Assist with the preparation of operational documentation.
  • Participate in test readiness and safety reviews.
  • Collaborate with engineers, test pilots, and operations team to accomplish test objectives safely and efficiently.
  • Lead test briefings/debriefings, and coordinate with all support groups.
  • Direct flight test operations either onboard an airship or from the telemetry room.
  • Perform post-flight data analysis as required.
  • Prepare flight test reports and communicate non-conformance items and 'squawks'.
  • Other duties may be assigned.
  • Travel - Occasional.  
Qualifications
  • 1-3+ years of experimental flight test experience.
  • Bachelor's or higher degree in an applicable engineering field.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Class 3 medical certificate (or better).
  • Familiarity with aircraft systems and operations.
  • Proficiency in test planning, and drafting THAs and aircraft operating procedures.
  • Ability to learn and to lead the development and execution of complex flight tests.
  • Strong technical and analytical skills, as well as attention to detail.
  • Understanding of flight test instrumentation.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Graduate of a recognized test pilot school.
  • Private Pilot or higher rating.
  • Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools.
  • Aptitude with Python coding.
  • Experience with first flight efforts of experimental aircraft.
  • Experience testing Fly-By-Wire, flight control, electrical, and/or propulsion systems.
  • Understanding of aerodynamics and aircraft performance.
  • Understanding of human factors and cockpit design.
  • Experience in FAA certification test programs and knowledge of FARs.
What We Offer!
  • Relocation assistance
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
  • Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
  • Parental leave
  • Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
  • 401(k) matching up to 6%
  • Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
  • Monthly wellness stipend
  • Monthly cell phone stipend
  • Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
  • Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
  • An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields
Compliance Requirements
  • Criminal background check clearance
  • Drug test clearance wherever applicable
  • Applicant must be able to obtain a NASA Moffett Federal Airfield AOA Badge
$85,000 - $140,000 a year
 
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LTA Research & Exploration welcomes all candidates to apply including those with limited experience. We understand that candidates with a growth mindset and passion for working on the next chapter in aviation advancement can outweigh experience alone. We celebrate diverse origins and journeys and understand their importance in developing new technology. Rooted in our humanitarian mission, we want to serve the entire globe and have a team that represents those we wish to serve.

Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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