1

Nasa Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$80K - $120K/yr

Working alongside NASA , AFRC partners , aircraft technicians, and multidisciplinary engineering ... Support engineers and pilots duringground tests and flight operationsby providing simulation ...

$120K - $144K/yr

Working alongside NASA , AFRC partners , aircraft technicians, and multidisciplinary engineering ... Support engineers and pilots duringground tests and flight operationsby providing simulation ...

... as NASA and the Department of Defense. Founded in 2004, HX5 is a fast-growing veteran- and woman ... Desired: Experience piloting UAS/drone aircraft. Other Position Requirements * Proof of U.S.

$37.61/hr

... at NASA-KSC. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS : * Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering ... The successful applicant will support the Infrastructure Pilot Excavator (IPEx) project to mine and ...

Showing results 21-40

Nasa Test Pilot information

See salary details

$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do nasa test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for nasa 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 NASA test pilot?

A NASA Test Pilot is responsible for flying and evaluating experimental aircraft, spacecraft, and aviation systems to ensure they meet safety and performance requirements. These pilots work closely with engineers, scientists, and mission planners to test new technologies and procedures. They often participate in simulations, provide critical feedback, and help refine aircraft designs before broader implementation. NASA Test Pilots typically have extensive flight experience, often military or commercial, and a strong background in aeronautical engineering or related fields.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a NASA test pilot?

As a NASA Test Pilot, your typical day involves preparing for and conducting test flights, analyzing aircraft performance, and collaborating with engineers and support teams to evaluate experimental systems. You will also participate in safety briefings, review technical data, and document flight results in detailed reports. Frequent coordination with aerospace engineers, mission planners, and other specialists is essential for refining flight objectives and ensuring mission success. This dynamic environment requires adaptability and attention to detail, as daily activities may shift with evolving test schedules and research goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the NASA test pilot position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a NASA Test Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a strong background in aeronautical engineering or a related field, and significant flight experience, often supported by a degree and military or civilian test pilot school certification. Proficiency with advanced flight instrumentation, aircraft simulation systems, and flight data analysis tools is required. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are essential for working in multidisciplinary teams and adapting to dynamic test environments. These skills ensure both the safety and effectiveness of high-stakes flight testing, contributing to successful aerospace research and development.

How do you become a NASA test pilot?

To become a NASA test pilot, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or mathematics, along with extensive flight experience as a military or civilian pilot. They often hold advanced pilot certifications, such as a commercial or airline transport pilot license, and have experience flying high-performance aircraft. Selection also requires meeting physical and medical standards, and applicants usually undergo rigorous testing and interviews.

How much does a Nasa Test Pilot get paid?

NASA test pilots typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, seniority, and qualifications. They often hold advanced degrees and certifications in aeronautics or related fields and work in highly specialized environments requiring extensive training.
More about Nasa Test Pilot jobs

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

The most popular types of Nasa Test Pilot jobs are:

What states have the most Nasa Test Pilot jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Nasa Test Pilot jobs?

For Nasa Test Pilot jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Nasa Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Global Hawk Pilot (Edwards Air Force Base)

Edwards, CA • On-site

Integration Innovation, Inc. (i3)
Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$170K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Plan and execute ground and flight operations of NASA RQ-4 Global Hawks.

  • Serve as Pilot in Command and, if qualified, as Instructor on RQ-4 aircraft.

  • Conduct ground and flight tests of modified aircraft.


Job description

Overview

i3 is searching for a Global Hawk Pilot to join our team at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC). Responsible for planning and execution of ground and flight operations of NASA RQ-4 Global Hawks. Serves as PIC and, if qualified, Instructor on RQ-4 aircraft. May develop new procedures for new aircraft modifications. Participates in development of operational, training and safety procedures. Conducts ground and flight tests of modified aircraft. Ensures compliance with NASA regulations, policies, and procedures, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Works on Certificates of Authorization (COA) with the FAA to allow flight in the National Airspace. Involves all aspects of a flight operation including crew resource management, mission planning, briefing and debriefings, lessons learned, ground and flight safety execution and planning. Other duties as assigned. AFRC aircraft are located at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions. Will require some travel.

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.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree plus 7 years of aviation experience.
  • Position requires experience as a flight operations crew member.
  • Must have a FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate, Airplane Single Engine Land privileges with Instrument Rating.
  • Minimum of 500 hours of flight experience as Pilot in Command
  • Current Class II or higher FAA medical certificate.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.

Security Clearance:

  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the level of clearance required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • BS Degree in STEM.
  • Military flight experience highly desirable.
  • RQ-4 Global Hawk experience.
  • Flight test experience, multi-engine rated, ATP, crew aircraft experience, aviation instructor experience also preferred.
  • Experience working Certificates of Authorizations (COAs) with the FAA highly desirable.

Knowledge/Skills

  • 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.
  • Knowledge of office administration and procedures.
  • Exceptional judgment capabilities and relationship management skills.
  • Excellent communication, teamwork, and client service skills; ability to clearly communicate in discussions and written documents, and to deliver feedback clearly and tactfully.
  • Interact with a diverse array of customers and staff in a professional and courteous manner.
  • Work independently with accountability for accurate and complete results.
  • Be extremely organized and exceptionally detail oriented.
  • Work well both independently and in a team environment.
  • Be energized by a fast-paced work environment.
  • Must be able to communicate with others effectively.
  • Analyze information and respond appropriately.
  • Manage time wisely and prioritize tasks.
  • Provide superior customer service.
  • Multi-task in a pleasant manner.
  • Work well under pressure.
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.
  • 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. May be required to fly long missions (up to 10 hours) at high altitude in a confined space. May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.
  • Regular i3 hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, however, additional hours may be required on occasion. Regular and punctual attendance is required.
About i3

i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

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

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!

#J-18808-Ljbffr