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Test Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187.40 - $250/hr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot

Marina, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is ...

Scaled Composites

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 experimental and developmental aircraft and payload systems within a fast-paced design and ...

Wisk Aero LLC

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$159 - $199/hr

We are looking for a Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification of a new class of all-electric aircraft. As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely ...

Wisk Aero

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$159 - $199/hr

We are looking for a Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification of a new class of all-electric aircraft. As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely ...

Wisk Aero

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$159K - $199K/yr

We are looking for a Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification of a new class of all-electric aircraft. As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely ...

Wisk

Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA

$159K - $199K/yr

We are looking for a Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification of a new class of all-electric aircraft. As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working closely ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Staff Pilot Test

Edwards, CA · On-site

$214K - $321K/yr

Northrop Grumman's Test and Evaluation (T&E) organization is seeking a Staff Test Pilot for developmental test of military aircraft. Candidate may conduct demonstration flights with customers ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing ...

Hermeus

Test Pilot

Los Angeles, CA

$135K - $250K/yr

Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and Experience * Instructor pilot experience * Knowledge of military or FAA Airworthiness requirements

Hermeus

Test Pilot

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and Experience * Instructor pilot experience * Knowledge of military or FAA Airworthiness requirements

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot (East Garrison)

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA

$97K - $167K/yr

Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing on ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing ...

Hermeus

Test Pilot

Los Angeles, CA

$135K - $250K/yr

Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and Experience * Instructor pilot experience * Knowledge of military or FAA Airworthiness requirements

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All JobsTest Pilot JobsTest Pilot Jobs in California

Test Pilot information

See California salary details

$80.4K

$103.7K

$173.7K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in California is $103,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a test pilot?

A test pilot flies new and modified aircraft to evaluate performance and safety features. Job duties include gathering observational data during test flights, documenting whether an aircraft is operating properly, and making recommendations for improvements. You can find test pilot jobs in the commercial transportation industry and with the government, through the military or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). You must be a fully qualified pilot with some additional training for this career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a test pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Test Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a strong background in aeronautical engineering or a related technical field, and typically a military or commercial pilot’s license with significant flight hours. Familiarity with flight test instrumentation, data analysis systems, and certification from organizations like the FAA or military test pilot schools are often required. Exceptional situational awareness, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills are crucial for managing complex and high-risk scenarios. These skills ensure safety, accurate evaluation of new or modified aircraft, and effective collaboration with engineering teams during critical testing processes.

What are some common challenges faced by test pilots during flight testing, and how are they managed?

Test pilots often encounter unpredictable aircraft behavior, rapidly changing flight conditions, and the need to make quick decisions under pressure. Managing these challenges involves extensive pre-flight planning, thorough risk assessments, and collaborating closely with engineers and ground crews. Test pilots are trained to follow strict protocols, document every anomaly, and communicate findings clearly to ensure safety and continuous improvement. Adaptability and a strong attention to detail are essential for successfully overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Test Pilot vs Test Engineer?

AspectTest PilotTest Engineer
Required CredentialsPilot license, aviation certificationsEngineering degree, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft, flight testing facilitiesLaboratories, testing sites, design offices
Industry UsageAerospace, aviation companiesAerospace, automotive, electronics industries
Primary FocusFlying aircraft to evaluate performance and safetyDesigning, developing, and executing tests on products or systems

Test Pilots primarily focus on flying aircraft to assess performance and safety, requiring pilot licenses and aviation certifications. Test Engineers, on the other hand, develop and conduct tests on various systems or products, often with engineering degrees. While both roles are vital in aerospace, Test Pilots are flight-focused, whereas Test Engineers work in labs and design testing procedures.

How much money does a test pilot make?

Test pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, with experienced pilots and those working for government agencies or private aerospace companies earning higher salaries. Compensation can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the aircraft tested.
More about Test Pilot jobs

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

The most popular types of Test Pilot jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Test Pilot jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Test Pilot jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Test Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Test Pilot job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in CA?

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

Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,733 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Test Pilot

Joby Aviation

Marina, CA • On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.

Overview

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven test pilot to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes planning and flight testing experimental CTOL/VTOL fly-by-wire aircraft and supporting all certification flight test related activities. Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is desired.

Responsibilities
  • Perform flight test activities including test planning, test execution as pilot (both remote UAV and inhabited flight test), chase pilot, flight debriefs, and post-flight analysis and reporting
  • Perform simulator testing, development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing, and other purposes
  • Contribute to flight readiness reviews, test safety reviews, and other flight test admin activities
  • Perform flight test engineering duties, including test card preparation, test direction, and other control room responsibilities
  • Perform miscellaneous engineering duties as tasked
  • Complete all required documentation in accordance with established company and FAA procedures
  • Observe all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company
  • Expected to work safely by established operating procedures and practices
  • Other duties as assigned or required
Required
  • Long course graduate of recognized test pilot school or, exceptionally, equivalent on-the-job training
  • At least 3 years additional flight test experience post training, with at least 50 hours experimental or certification flight test experience as test pilot
  • Bachelor's of Science degree or equivalent experience and training
  • Fixed Wing and / or Rotorcraft Commercial Certificate
  • A minimum of 1,000 hours pilot in command flight time
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work extended hours and travel as required
  • Read and speak English proficiently
Desired
  • Both fixed wing and rotary wing flight test experience, with principal experience in fixed wing
  • AV-8 or F-35B experience and/or V-22 experience
  • FAA certification flight test experience
  • Flight instructional experience
  • Test pilot school instructional experience
  • Experience with all-electric aircraft
  • Flight test DER or AR
Additional Information

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $187,400 - $250,000/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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