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Test Pilot Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

NetApp

PCBA Test Engineer

Wichita, KS · On-site

Job Responsibilities Manufacturing Test Ownership Own development and deployment of ICT and BST test solutions for pilot and production Define and integrate device programming requirements into ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Lansing, KS

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Russell, KS

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Salina, KS

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Topeka, KS

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Potwin, KS

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Solomon, KS

Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude ... Pilots and Naval Flight Officers. Strong academic performance, especially in technical or ...

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All JobsTest Pilot JobsTest Pilot Jobs in Kansas

Test Pilot information

See Kansas salary details

$72.7K

$93.7K

$157K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in Kansas is $93,742.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,400.00 and $95,900.00 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 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 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 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 do test pilots make?

Test pilots typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, with experienced pilots or those working for government agencies and 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 Kansas? The most popular types of Test Pilot jobs in Kansas are:
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What job categories do people searching Test Pilot jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Test Pilot jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Test Pilot jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Test Pilot job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in KS? For Test Pilot jobs in KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,742 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Engineering Test Pilot, Experimental Flight Test

Bombardier Transportation GmbH

Wichita, KS • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Engineering Test Pilot, Experimental Flight Test

Position located in Wichita, KS, USA. The role is part of the Learjet Inc organization within the Aviation Division and represents a regular, full‑time employee status.

Benefits Program
  • Insurance plans (Dental, medical, life insurance, disability, and more)
  • Competitive base salary
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tele Health Program
Contributions to the Team
  • Provide technical expertise related to flight test and aircraft operational issues in support of design development activities.
  • Work closely with Flight Test Engineers assigned to the aircraft; oversee and audit the technical content of all test procedures.
  • Provide technical leadership as project pilot to other test pilots assigned to the same flight test program; serve as the central point of contact for all pilot/operational issues throughout the program, presenting the coordinated position on these issues.
  • Review and provide inputs for flight manuals, flight manual supplements, pilot manuals and other technical engineering reports.
  • Conduct briefings for company management reviews, FAA, Transport Canada, and other foreign Certification Authorities as necessary.
  • Act as the direct liaison with test pilot groups in FAA/Transport Canada on specific technical or schedule issues.
  • Conduct developmental and certification flight tests on experimental airplanes.
How to Thrive in This Role
  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent experience.
  • Hold the appropriate US or Canadian Airline Transport Pilot License (ATP/ATPL), or attain it within 6 months of hire.
  • Hold a First Class FAA medical or equivalent.
  • Have practical experience in flight test techniques, procedures, and requirements.
  • Have a minimum of three (3) years’ experience as a test pilot (PIC) in experimental flight test.
  • Demonstrate strong written and spoken communication skills.
  • Have a minimum of 1500 hours, including 300 hours of turbine‑powered flight experience as pilot.
  • Be willing to work irregular hours and travel on short notice.
  • Possess interpersonal skills necessary to work effectively with a variety of individuals, departments, and organizations.
  • Have practical experience with FAA, Transport Canada, and JAA certification processes and procedures.
  • Demonstrate the highest standards of integrity.
  • Be a graduate of an accredited test pilot school (USAF, Navy, French, Empire or National Test Pilot School).
  • Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in engineering or a related discipline.
  • Have prior experience as a DER/UM/DAD test pilot.

Now that you can see yourself in this role, apply and join the Bombardier Team!

Bombardier is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, National, or Local Laws.

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