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Temporary Production Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Test Pilot

Mojave, CA · On-site

$199K - $299K/yr

As a Test Pilot at Scaled Composites, you'll play a vital role in providing technical support for ... core products. Will also work closely with chemicals, such as acetone and alcohol. * May ...

Engineering Test Pilot

Mineral Wells, TX · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

Provide test pilot expertise to assigned programs; technology/research and product development efforts to ensure man-machine interface issues and requirements are identified for new or modified ...

Provide test pilot expertise to assigned programs; technology/research and product development efforts to ensure man-machine interface issues and requirements are identified for new or modified ...

... individual products * Understands and is able to maintain moderately complex test aircraft ... Commercial Pilot Certificate * 2nd Class FAA Medical Certificate * Minimum 1,500 hours total flight ...

The Test Pilot is responsible for ensuring the proper execution of ground and flight ... tests on A220 and A320 production aircraft. Meet the team: Our Engineers at the Airbus U.S.

The Chief Test Pilot (CTP) is a key contributor to the program and sits on the program leadership ... The CTP will work closely with other Integrated Product Teams, the Chief Engineer, as well as ...

... tests Conduct production acceptance and functional check flights on new or modified aircraft Pilot ... Temporary Operating Procedures and Aircraft Operating Limitations for flight test programs Review ...

This is an opportunity to work on products with national and global impact alongside a ... Role Overview Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight ...

This is an opportunity to work on products with national and global impact alongside a ... Role Overview Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight ...

This is an opportunity to work on products with national and global impact alongside a ... Role Overview Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight ...

... production acceptance and functional check flights on new or modified aircraft • Pilot AMMM ... Temporary Operating Procedures and Aircraft Operating Limitations for flight test programs • ...

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Temporary Production Test Pilot information

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How much do temporary production test pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary production test pilot in the United States is $25.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Production Test Pilot, you need a commercial or military pilot’s license, extensive flight hours, and thorough knowledge of aircraft systems and flight testing procedures. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, data collection tools, and aviation safety management systems is typically required. Superior problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help pilots quickly identify and report issues. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring aircraft safety, regulatory compliance, and the reliable delivery of airworthy products.

What are some common challenges faced by Temporary Production Test Pilots during their assignments?

Temporary Production Test Pilots often encounter the challenge of quickly adapting to new aircraft models and test protocols, as each manufacturer may have unique procedures. They must rapidly build rapport with engineering teams and production staff to ensure clear communication and efficient workflow. Additionally, managing tight deadlines while prioritizing safety and compliance with regulatory standards is essential. Flexibility and precise technical evaluation skills are key to successfully navigating these short-term, high-responsibility roles.

What is the difference between Temporary Production Test Pilot vs Flight Test Engineer?

AspectTemporary Production Test PilotFlight Test Engineer
Required CredentialsCommercial pilot license, specific aircraft type ratingsEngineering degree, pilot certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAircraft testing facilities, production lines, flight testingDesign labs, testing facilities, flight test programs
Employer & Industry UsageAircraft manufacturers, aerospace companiesAircraft manufacturers, aerospace firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Temporary Production Test Pilots primarily focus on flying aircraft during manufacturing and testing phases, ensuring aircraft meet safety and performance standards. Flight Test Engineers, on the other hand, design and analyze test procedures, often working alongside pilots. Both roles are essential in aerospace testing but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are Temporary Production Test Pilots?

Temporary Production Test Pilots are aviation professionals hired on a short-term basis to test and evaluate newly manufactured or modified aircraft before they are delivered to customers. Their main responsibility is to ensure that the aircraft meet all safety and performance standards through rigorous flight testing. These pilots work closely with engineers and quality assurance teams to identify and report any issues, helping to improve the final product. Temporary positions are often used to address increased production demands or fill in for permanent staff on leave.
More about Temporary Production Test Pilot jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Production Test Pilot jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Production Test Pilot job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Production Test Pilot jobs? The most popular types of Production Test Pilot jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Production Test Pilot jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Production Test Pilot jobs include:
Infographic showing various Temporary Production Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,688 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Test Pilot

$199K - $299K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


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: Top Secret

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.