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Maintenance Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do maintenance test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for maintenance 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 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 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 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.

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What cities are hiring for Maintenance Test Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Maintenance Test Pilot job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Maintenance Test Pilot jobs?

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What states have the most Maintenance Test Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Maintenance Test Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Maintenance Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Maintenance Test Pilot -- UH60A/L/M

Science and Engineering Services, LLC

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Overview

The Maintenance Test Pilot (MTP) utilizes flight test techniques to perform test flights of the aircraft to measure performance and handling to determine airworthiness following maintenance or modifications.

Responsibilities
  • Performs flight readiness inspections, completes maintenance forms and aircraft log books
  • Flight tests the applicable aircraft to determine that the airframe, power plant, accessories and items of equipage are functioning IAW predetermined requirements
  • Performs maintenance operational checks of aircraft on the ground through engine run-up, aircraft taxiing or use of auxiliary power or testing equipment, to assure that aircraft systems or components disturbed during an inspection or maintenance action have been repaired, reassembled or adjusted satisfactorily
  • Performs general maintenance operational test flights to prove the airworthiness of the complete aircraft
  • Completes test flight check sheets IAW the applicable maintenance manual
  • Performs limited test flights when it is necessary to prove proper functioning of specific items/components
  • After each test flight, performs a thorough visual inspection to the extent necessary to ensure that deficiencies developed as a result of the test flight are detected and corrected before the aircraft is released for further flight
  • Performs other duties as assigned
Qualifications

Training/Education:

  • FAA Commercial Pilot or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate and the appropriate category, class, and type ratings
  • Graduate of the Army Maintenance Test Pilot Course OR have completed an equivalency evaluation conducted by the Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization (DES), U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, Ft. Novosel, AL 36362-5000
  • Must be able to maintain FAA CL II medical certificate
  • Must meet all Army initial aircraft qualifications
  • Must be qualified in mission, type, design, and if appropriate, series of aircraft
  • Dual-qualification as IP/ME preferred.

 Experience:

  • Not less than 1,000 hours PC/PIC time, which must include 300 hours in similar aircraft type
  • Must have thorough knowledge and understanding of DCMAI 8210.1D as it pertains to flight operations requirements
Employment Type: FULL_TIME