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Nasa Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Overview NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for ...

Overview NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for ...

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and ...

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Overview NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for ...

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Job Title NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew Member Overview NASA Armstrong ... Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe ...

Global Hawk Pilot

Edwards, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Ensures compliance with NASA regulations, policies, and procedures, company policy and procedures ... Must have a FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate, Airplane Single Engine Land privileges with ...

Ensures compliance with NASA regulations, policies, and procedures, company policy and procedures ... Must have a FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate, Airplane Single Engine Land privileges with ...

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Nasa Pilot information

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$49.5K

$130.9K

$201K

How much do nasa pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for nasa pilot in the United States is $130,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $155,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a NASA Pilot?

As a NASA Pilot, your daily responsibilities can include conducting pre-flight checks, participating in mission simulations, reviewing flight plans, and coordinating with engineers and mission control staff. You may also spend significant time training in high-fidelity simulators, maintaining proficiency in emergency procedures, and preparing for both space and atmospheric flight scenarios. Collaboration with scientists, astronauts, and ground support teams is essential to ensure mission objectives are clearly understood and executed safely. The role requires adaptability, as tasks can change rapidly depending on mission needs, experimental objectives, or unexpected challenges.

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

To thrive as a NASA Pilot, you need an extensive background in aeronautical engineering, superior piloting skills, and a degree in a STEM field, often complemented by military or test pilot experience. Mastery of advanced flight systems, simulators, and NASA-specific protocols is typically required, along with specialized pilot certifications such as a military or commercial pilot's license. Exceptional decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills are essential for handling high-pressure situations and collaborating with diverse mission teams. These competencies are crucial to ensure mission safety, precision, and effectiveness during complex space and flight operations.

What is a NASA Pilot job?

A NASA Pilot is a highly trained astronaut or research pilot responsible for operating spacecraft, research aircraft, and other aerospace vehicles for missions, testing, and scientific research. They support space exploration, transport astronauts and cargo, and conduct flight tests on cutting-edge aviation technology. NASA Pilots typically have backgrounds as military or commercial pilots, with extensive experience and advanced degrees in aviation, engineering, or related fields.

More about Nasa Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Nasa Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Nasa Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nasa Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Nasa Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Nasa Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Nasa Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nasa Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,916 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

$170 - $190/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Overview

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

Pay Range $170,000-$190,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

Responsibilities

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on a variety of NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: C-20A, Gulfstream (III, IV, and V), Pilatus PC-12, T-34, RQ-4 Global Hawk, and TG-14.

Duties include:

  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations, Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training.

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew.

Qualifications

Required Skills:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missionsโ€™ experience (Highly Desired)
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots should have at least 1000 hours in transport category aircraft with 500 hours of special missionsโ€™ experience (Highly Desired)
  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work. Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports. Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information. Ability to perform shop math. Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.
  • Office conditions: Moderate noise level. May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time. May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper. May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time. May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact. Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.
  • Flight line working conditions: Will be required to work day or night. May be exposed to high noise levels. Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
Other Outstanding Benefits
  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares
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