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Test Pilot Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Medium

Test Pilot

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135 - $250/hr

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 DER

Marina, CA

$222K - $286K/yr

This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply foundational principles in a new fly-by-wire environment. As a key member of our certification team, you will ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply foundational principles in a new fly-by-wire environment. As a key member of our certification team, you will ...

Wisk Aero LLC

Staff Test Pilot (Hollister)

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 Aero

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$126 - $157/hr

We are looking for a Senior 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 ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply foundational principles in a new fly-by-wire environment. As a key member of our certification team, you will ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$126K - $157K/yr

We are looking for a Senior 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)

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 Aero LLC

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$126 - $157/hr

We are looking for a Senior 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

Sr. Test Pilot

Hollister, CA

$126K - $157K/yr

We are looking for a Senior 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

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192 - $240/hr

We are looking for a Senior 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 ...

Wisk Aero

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

We are looking for a Senior 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 ...

Wisk

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA

$192K - $240K/yr

We are looking for a Senior 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 ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on Neros systems. This role will be primarily field testing and piloting FPV drones. The ideal candidate ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on Neros systems. This role will be primarily field testing and piloting FPV drones. The ideal candidate ...

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Showing results 21-40

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:

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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?

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What cities in California are hiring for Test Pilot jobs?

Cities in California with the most Test Pilot job openings:

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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.

Experimental Flight Test Pilot

Robinson Helicopter Company, Inc.

Torrance, CA • On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1973, Robinson Helicopter Company Inc., (RHC), is the preeminent manufacturer of civil rotorcraft located in Torrance, California. Robinson has built its reputation on a 50-year history of commitment to providing affordable and quality aircraft with a wide range of applications. We have a strong engineering team; almost 85% of our manufacturing processes, including production of parts and assembly, are done in our Torrance location. We also offer comprehensive overhaul services while rapidly responding to customers' needs; to keep their aircraft flying. Our commitment to our vision of keeping our customers flying has earned RHC a variety of recognition from our customers.
Robinson is an engineering focused organization that provides challenging and exciting opportunities to contribute to the future of vertical flight.
As an Experimental Test Pilot at Robinson Helicopter, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development and certification of the most widely used civil helicopters in the world. The Experimental Flight Test Pilot is part of a small and nimble flight test team plans, executes, analyzes, and reports on ground and flight test of experimental rotorcraft and/or systems. You will be challenged with bringing unique and complex aircraft from development through certification.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as PIC for development, research, and certification flight tests of experimental rotorcraft.
  • Conduct varying, complex flight test projects for rotorcraft including writing flight test plans, test cards, flight reports, and test reports
  • Lead and/or participate in ground and flight tests as pilot, test crew member, or Test Conductor
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to develop test strategies, determine test configurations, plan, and execute test programs in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.
  • Comply with department processes and standard operating procedures to ensure flight testing is accomplished with high levels of safety, effectiveness, consistency, and efficiency.
  • Contribute insights and innovations to improve the product and organization.
  • Participate in multi-disciplinary design reviews and assist with resolving cross-functional technical issues.
  • Participate in the Flight Test Safety Program to ensure safety objectives are accomplished including participation in flight test plan reviews, test flights, pre and post test flight briefings and test readiness reviews.
  • Interface with regulator (FAA, EASA, TCCA, etc) flight test personnel to conduct flight test aspects of aircraft certification.
  • Maintain required records and conduct audits to verify compliance with processes and procedures.
  • Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types.

Required Qualifications
  • Pilot graduate of a SETP recognized test pilot school or possess substantial experience in development and certification flight test programs.
  • Bachelor's degree in a related engineering field or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years' experience as an experimental RW test pilot.
  • FAA Commercial Helicopter Pilot Certificate.
  • FAA Second Class Medical.
  • Minimum 1,000 hrs Helicopter PIC time.
  • Significant experience managing Risk and Safety in the flight test environment.
  • Experience in development and type certification flight test programs for fixed or rotary-wing aircraft.
  • Excellent academic record.
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Team-oriented, possess a positive attitude, and work well with others
  • Able to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel periodically
  • Proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong project management, organization, and risk management skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office products and engineering software tools

Desired Qualifications
  • Significant experience in multiple makes and models of rotorcraft.
  • DER and/or ODA experience.
  • Master's degree in engineering.
  • Human-to-vehicle interface design, test and evaluation experience.
  • FAA Helicopter Instructor pilot certificate and experience.
  • Previous experience with advanced flight controls.

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