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Military Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

F-35 Test Pilot-Level 5

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$156K - $275K/yr

... military or recognized Test Pilot School (TPS). โ€ข SECRET or higher security clearance. โ€ข Must be willing to travel and have a valid U.S. passport. EEO Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity ...

UAV Test Pilots

Churchville, MD ยท On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Position UAV Test Pilots * Location: Churchville, Maryland * Security Clearance: Active Clearance ... Part 61, Part 141, Commercial Pilot or Private Pilots license. * Specific knowledge of military ...

UAS Test Pilot

San Luis Obispo, CA ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... tests to evaluate system performance, stability, and reliability * Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC ... Military Experience REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS * Matching 401(k) * Paid PTO * Paid holidays

UAV Test Pilots

Churchville, MD ยท On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Position UAV Test Pilots * Location: Churchville, Maryland * Security Clearance: Active Clearance ... Part 61, Part 141, Commercial Pilot or Private Pilots license. * Specific knowledge of military ...

... tests to evaluate system performance, stability, and reliability * Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC ... Military Experience REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS * Matching 401(k) * Paid PTO * Paid holidays

... tests to evaluate system performance, stability, and reliability * Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC ... Military Experience REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS * Matching 401(k) * Paid PTO * Paid holidays

UAS Test Pilot

San Luis Obispo, CA ยท On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... tests to evaluate system performance, stability, and reliability * Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC ... Military Experience REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS * Matching 401(k) * Paid PTO * Paid holidays

Equivalent military Maintenance Test Pilot qualification. * Requires graduation from a recognized military Maintenance Test Pilot or Functional Check Flight program for comparable rotary-wing ...

Flight Safety Course, Weapons School or Test Pilot School. RESPONSIBILITIES * Develops and plans test strategies, writes test plans, and publishes test reports using a working knowledge of military ...

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Military Test Pilot information

See salary details

$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do military test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for military 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 the difference between Military Test Pilot vs Commercial Test Pilot?

AspectMilitary Test PilotCommercial Test Pilot
CredentialsMilitary pilot certification, specialized test pilot trainingCommercial pilot license, type ratings, test pilot certification
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, defense contractors, aircraft testing facilitiesAircraft manufacturers, private testing facilities, commercial airlines
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, defense industryAircraft manufacturers, private aerospace companies

Both Military Test Pilots and Commercial Test Pilots require specialized training and certifications. Military Test Pilots focus on testing military aircraft in defense settings, often working for the armed forces. Commercial Test Pilots test civilian aircraft for manufacturers or private companies, often in commercial environments. While their roles differ in purpose and environment, both careers demand high skill levels and rigorous testing experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Military Test Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Military Test Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a strong engineering background (often with a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering), and completion of military test pilot school. Proficiency with flight testing software, simulation systems, and avionics testing equipment is typically required, along with security clearances. Exceptional decision-making, risk management, and communication skills help pilots work effectively within multidisciplinary teams and handle high-pressure situations. These skills ensure that new aircraft and systems are evaluated safely and accurately, directly impacting mission success and operational safety.

What are some of the unique challenges military test pilots face during aircraft evaluation flights?

Military test pilots frequently encounter unique challenges, such as operating prototype aircraft with unproven systems, managing unexpected technical anomalies, and executing complex test maneuvers under strict safety protocols. They must maintain rigorous attention to detail while documenting flight data, and work closely with engineers and ground crews to communicate findings and recommend modifications. This role requires a high level of adaptability and composure, as pilots often need to make rapid decisions in dynamic and sometimes unpredictable flight conditions.

What are Military Test Pilots?

Military Test Pilots are highly trained aviators who conduct flight tests on new or modified military aircraft to evaluate their performance, handling, and safety. They work closely with engineers and designers to assess aircraft systems, identify any issues, and recommend improvements. Their role is critical in ensuring that military aircraft meet rigorous operational and safety standards before entering service. Military Test Pilots often have extensive flying experience and must complete specialized test pilot training programs.
More about Military Test Pilot jobs
Infographic showing various Military Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 90% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Test Pilot with Security Clearance

Test Pilot with Security Clearance

Scaled Composites, LLC

Mojave, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

As a Test Pilot at Scaled Composites, you'll play a vital role in providing technical support for experimental and developmental aircraft and payload systems within a fast-paced design and prototyping environment. Your extensive experience and sound judgment will guide you in planning and achieving objectives. Building and maintaining strong relationships in the organization will be essential to your success. Category: Flight Operations Location: Mojave, CA Citizenship Required: United States Citizenship Clearance Type: TopSecret Schedule: 9/80 Work Schedule Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be available Benefits: 100% Paid Benefits and 401k Matching Summary: Scaled Composites is a fast-paced aerospace research company located in Mojave, CA. We are known for crafting-of-a-kind, proof-of-concept, and record setting aircraft. We look for self-starters who strive to understand the company as a whole, take ownership of their tasking, and are idea generators to progress efficiency for the overall sake of the company. This research and development environment focuses on good judgement, quick thinking, and forward progression in a short timeframe. Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: * Piloting multiple experimental aircraft as well as chase, pace, photo, and target aircraft.
* Writing detailed flight test plans, test cards, flight reports, and final test reports.
* Leading / participating in system design and reviews as Project Pilot, in alignment with your prior engineering experience.
* Develop test strategies, test plans and test procedures for aircraft and components, given system requirements.
* Leading and/or participating in ground and flight test events as Test Pilot, Test Crew Member, or Test Conductor.
* Authoring and/or updating Pilot Operating Handbooks to include development of normal and emergency procedures.
* Participating in preflight and post flight briefings; and documenting test results.
* Maintaining flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types. Required Qualifications: * FAA Commercial Single and Multi-Engine Land pilots license with Instrument Rating; additional ratings and Type Ratings, including CFI S/MEL and CFII, highly preferred.
* FAA high altitude endorsement or equivalent military training.
* Ability to obtain and maintain a FAA Class II medical certificate.
* Minimum of 1000+ hours total PIC flight time, to include recip and turbine time.
* Full course test pilot school graduate or equivalent training and experience.
* Minimum of 250+ hours, or 30 test sorties, of actual developmental and/or experimental flight test time documented.
* Bachelor's degree in engineering (aeronautical/mechanical/electrical preferred) or similar technical foundation to support aircraft design and construction.
* Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance and program access. * Military TPS Graduate, highly preferred. Required Skills/Abilities: * Knowledgeable of Federal Aviation Regulations for flight operations and aircraft certification.
* Great verbal and written communication skills.
* Great interpersonal and customer service skills.
* Great sales and customer service skills.
* Great organizational skills and attention to detail.
* Great time management skills with a proven ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with emphasis on engineering disciplines.
* Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software with the ability to learn new software, as required.
* Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
* Ability to work autonomously, as well as in a team setting.
* Ability to travel occasionally on project aircraft trips. Essential Job Functions: * Must have the ability to work in cramped, confined cockpit environments in both hot and cold environments for up to 8 hours with limited movement
* Able to operate cockpit flight controls with center stick, yoke and side stick.
* Able to push rudder up to 150 lbs., elevator forces up to 150 lbs., and aileron forces up to 90 lbs.
* Must be able to enter and exit cockpit areas up to 4 feet off the ground.
* Must be able to work in a high stress environment when required.
* Occasional lifting up to 50+ lbs, with assistance
* Standing 60% of the day
* Required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment for an assigned task.
* Occasional work with composite materials such as epoxy resin systems, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and foam/core products. Will also work closely with chemicals, such as acetone and alcohol.
* May infrequently require lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling materials weighing up to 30 pounds. * Manual dexterity and coordination are required; repetitive hand motion (e.g., to operate a computer keyboard) * Work on varied work surfaces/environments, including but not limited to working in a busy shop environment, cold room, or in/on aircraft structures including raised platforms including but not limited to ladders, scaffolding, and stairs.
* Work may be performed inside or outside of buildings. May be exposed to changing weather conditions (i.e. article or aircraft testing operations).
* Must be able to pass and maintain 'pass' status on OSHA-approved Pulmonary Fitness Test (PFT) in order to wear a respirator for prolonged periods of time.
* Vision at close distances and the ability to adjust focus for prolonged periods (i.e., computer screen)
* Ability to remain sedentary or stationary for prolonged periods of time * Ability to write for extended periods of time * Ability to work in an office setting for prolonged periods of time
* May be asked to carry up to 20 lbs. up and down a flight of stairs on a regular basis such as files, books, office equipment, etc. * Occasionally reaching overhead and lifting up to 15 pounds
* Ability to converse and communicate information with others
* Occasional exposure to chemical vapors and/or fumes in low non-hazardous concentration
* Potential to climb up and down steps daily
* Must have sufficient agility to work in the interior of an aircraft structure. Will need to bend, stoop, squat, and/or kneel to occasionally work in cramped, tiring, and uncomfortable positions.
* Must be able to read and understand SDS. Scaled Composites is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, providing equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.