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Test Pilot Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Akima

KY · On-site

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-47G helicopter. Duties include but are not limited to MTF (Maintenance Test Flight), FTF (Functional Test Flight), and MOC (Maintenance ...

Akima

KY · On-site

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-6 helicopter. Duties include but are not limited to MTF (Maintenance Test Flight), FTF (Functional Test Flight), and MOC (Maintenance Operational ...

Akima

KY · On-site

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-47G helicopter. Duties include but are not limited to MTF (Maintenance Test Flight), FTF (Functional Test Flight), and MOC (Maintenance ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Grand Rivers, KY

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing. * Ability to perform the ...

American Cruise Lines

River Pilot

Grand Rivers, KY · On-site

River Pilot American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Nav Mate Pilots to lead our U.S. - flag fleet ... Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing. * Ability to perform the ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Dayton, KY

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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Test Pilot information

See Kentucky salary details

$70.8K

$91.3K

$152.9K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in Kentucky is $91,291.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,400.00 and $93,400.00 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.

Do test pilots still exist?

Yes, test pilots still exist and are responsible for flying new or modified aircraft to evaluate performance, safety, and handling. They typically have specialized training, engineering knowledge, and certifications, and work for aerospace companies, military, or government agencies to ensure aircraft meet safety standards before commercial or military use.

How much money do test pilots 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.

What are test pilots?

Test pilots are specially trained aviators who fly new or modified aircraft to evaluate their performance, safety, and handling. They work closely with engineers to identify potential issues and to ensure that the aircraft meets government and industry standards before it goes into full production. Test pilots must possess exceptional flying skills, strong analytical abilities, and a deep understanding of aeronautical engineering. Their work is critical to advancing aviation technology and ensuring flight safety.

Is being a test pilot worth it?

Being a test pilot is a highly specialized and risky profession that involves testing aircraft and new technologies, often requiring advanced education, engineering knowledge, and certification. It offers unique experiences and can lead to prestigious roles in aerospace, but it also involves significant safety risks and demanding schedules. The decision depends on personal passion for aviation and willingness to accept the inherent dangers and challenges of the job.

How can you become a test pilot?

To become a test pilot, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or aviation, along with extensive flight experience and a commercial pilot license. Many test pilots also complete military flight training or obtain a specialized test pilot certification, gaining skills in aircraft systems, safety procedures, and experimental testing environments.
More about Test Pilot jobs
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What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Test Pilot jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Test Pilot job openings:
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Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,291 per year, or $43.9 per hour.
Maint Test Pilot, Rotary Wing

Maint Test Pilot, Rotary Wing

Akima, LLC

Fort Campbell, KY • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Akima rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

318th of 442 rated engineering

Job description

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-47G helicopter. Duties include but are not limited to MTF (Maintenance Test Flight), FTF (Functional Test Flight), and MOC (Maintenance Operational Checks) on customer MH-47G series aircraft. The Maintenance Test Pilot (MTP) shall perform testing, including the use of ground and in-flight diagnostic test equipment.
Responsibilities
  • Proficient in flying operations of assigned rotary wing helicopters.
  • Demonstrate instrument task proficiency on the annual flight evaluation conducted by flight detachment Evaluators.
  • Complete an initial, and annually thereafter, FAA second class flight physical.
  • Undergo an annual flight evaluation conducted by both an Instructor Pilot (IP) and Maintenance Test Flight Evaluator (MTFE), qualified in Mission, Type, and Design Series (MDS).
  • Ensure that all Aircrew Training Manual (ATM) tasks required for assigned flight duties are accomplished (i.e., non-tactical base tasks).
  • Maintain a current, valid Agency or Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Second Class Medical Certificate and Maintain an instrument rating on their FAA Commercial Certificates.
  • Maintenance Test Pilot must hold an instrument rating on their FAA Commercial Certificates; and are evaluated I/A/W the appropriate ATM.

Qualifications
  • The Maintenance Test Pilot (MTP) must be qualified in the MDS aircraft.
  • The MTP must have no less than 1,000 hours of Pilot-in-Command time.
  • The Pilot-in-Command time must include a minimum of 100 hours in the specific MDS/similar aircraft.
  • A minimum of 50-hours must be logged during maintenance test flights on MH-47G aircraft.
  • The MTP must be a graduate of the AMOC II course.
  • Maintenance test pilots must be capable of passing a valid Agency or FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
  • Maintenance test pilots shall possess an instrument rating on their FAA Commercial Certificates.
  • Must be willing to travel (US travel) in support of aircraft maintenance. Travel could be up to 2 weeks per trip.
  • Must have the ability to obtain an Active Secret Clearance (Interim Secret Clearance Required to Start).
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.

Job ID
2025-19788
Work Type
On-Site
Company Description
Work Where it Matters
Akima Technical Solutions (ATS), an Akima company, is not just another federal technical solutions contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.
At ATS, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.
For our shareholders, ATS provides support and employment opportunities and contributes to the survival of a culture that has thrived above the Arctic Circle for more than 10,000 years.
For our government customers, ATS delivers a full spectrum of logistics and supply chain services that meet our customers' most stringent mandates and metrics.
As an ATS employee, you will be surrounded by a challenging, yet supportive work environment that is committed to innovation and diversity, two of our most important values. You will also have access to our comprehensive benefits and competitive pay in addition to growth opportunities and excellent retirement options.

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About Akima

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As an Alaska Native Corporation headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Akima is dedicated to delivering superior outcomes for our customers’ missions while simultaneously creating a long-lived asset for our Iñupiat shareholders. Akima maintains a portfolio of small businesses, 8(a) companies, and operating companies that deliver simplified and accelerated access to the products and services agencies need to ensure mission success.

Industry

Specialty trade contractors

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

1995

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