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Maintenance Test Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hermeus

Test Pilot (Los Angeles)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Maintain subject matter expertise on Quarterhorse demonstrator aircraft series * Plan and develop ... Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and ...

Medium

Test Pilot (Los Angeles)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Maintain subject matter expertise on Quarterhorse demonstrator aircraft series * Plan and develop ... Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and ...

KBR Careers

KC-130 Pilot (Port Hueneme)

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$155K - $225K/yr

As part of the world's largest independent flight test organization, supporting both US Government ... Must maintain an FAA Class II medical certificate or Navy Aeromedical Standard Service Group 1.

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All JobsMaintenance Test Pilot JobsMaintenance Test Pilot Jobs in California

Maintenance Test Pilot information

See California salary details

$80.4K

$103.7K

$173.7K

How much do maintenance test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for maintenance 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 maintenance test pilot?

A Maintenance Test Pilot conducts test flights to evaluate aircraft performance after maintenance, repairs, or modifications. They ensure that the aircraft meets operational and safety standards before being returned to service. This role requires in-depth knowledge of aircraft systems, troubleshooting, and flight testing procedures. Maintenance Test Pilots work closely with engineers, mechanics, and other aviation professionals to diagnose and resolve issues. Their assessments help verify airworthiness and maintain operational readiness.

What are some typical challenges faced by maintenance test pilots on the job?

Maintenance Test Pilots often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle or intermittent system issues that only appear under specific flight conditions. They must work closely with aircraft maintenance teams to interpret technical data, conduct thorough post-maintenance checks, and ensure all issues are resolved before returning the aircraft to service. The role can involve working in changing weather conditions, adapting to irregular schedules, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong technical acumen, clear communication, and a proactive approach to problem solving.

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

To thrive as a Maintenance Test Pilot, you need a commercial or military pilot’s license, in-depth understanding of aircraft systems, and extensive flight experience—specifically in conducting post-maintenance test flights. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, flight data recording equipment, maintenance documentation systems, and relevant airworthiness regulations is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication enable seamless collaboration with maintenance teams and clear reporting of test results. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensuring aircraft safety, compliance, and optimal performance after repairs or modifications.

What are popular job titles related to Maintenance Test Pilot jobs in California? For Maintenance Test Pilot jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Maintenance Test Pilot jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Maintenance Test Pilot jobs in California are:
Maintenance Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Maintenance Test Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,733 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Test Pilot (Los Angeles)

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Hermeus is a high-speed aircraft manufacturer focused on the rapid design, build, and test of high-Mach and hypersonic aircraft for the national interest. Working directly with the Department of Defense, Hermeus delivers capabilities that will ensure that our nation, and our allies, maintain an asymmetric advantage over any and all potential adversaries.

Responsibilities
  • Plan and execute taxi and flight operations for the Quarterhorse series of demonstrator aircraft
  • Oversee Quarterhorse’s transition from remotely piloted system to a fully autonomous system to meet program objectives.
  • Maintain subject matter expertise on Quarterhorse demonstrator aircraft series
  • Plan and develop ground and flight test procedures, run cards, and reports
  • Work with Hermeus engineering staff and technical editors to deliver flight manuals and other relevant technical documentation
Minimum Requirements
  • Federal Aviation Administration transport pilot rating or military equivalent
  • Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate
Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Instructor pilot experience
  • Knowledge of military or FAA Airworthiness requirements
  • Strong background in aircraft performance calculations; familiarity with aircraft stability and control systems
  • Experience writing test plans and test procedures
  • Flight experience in group 4/5 UAV (Global Hawk, Triton, and/or Reaper preferred)
  • Ability to communicate clearly and accurately with a wide range of people
  • Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding start-up atmosphere
  • Ability to learn, lead others, and help others learn while maintaining productivity
Additional Requirements
  • Ability to travel on short notice to support test campaigns. 5-10% baseline and up to 50% during flight test campaigns.

$135,000 - $250,000 a year The salary information provided is a general guideline only. Hermeus takes various factors into account, including, but not limited to, the position's scope and responsibilities, the candidate's professional background, education and training, essential skills, and market and business considerations, when presenting a job offer. Salary is only one part of our total compensation and benefits package. Hermeus offers competitive salary and equity, unlimited PTO policy, paid parental leave, potential for year-end bonuses, and more! 100% employer-paid health care 401k & Retirement Plans Unlimited PTO Weekly Paid Office Lunches End of Year Bonuses Fully stocked breakrooms Stock Options Paid Parental Leave

U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS

The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

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