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Test Pilot Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The CH47- Maintenance Test Pilot utilizes flight test techniques to perform test flights of aircraft to measure performance and handling to determine airworthiness following maintenance or ...

Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic ...

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 ...

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 ...

Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Tennessee salary details

$74K

$95.4K

$159.7K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in Tennessee is $95,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $97,600.00 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.
What job categories do people searching Test Pilot jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Test Pilot jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Test Pilot jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Test Pilot job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in TN? For Test Pilot jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,399 per year, or $45.9 per hour.
CH47- Maintenance Test Pilot

CH47- Maintenance Test Pilot

Pae

Knoxville, TN

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

The CH47- Maintenance Test Pilot utilizes flight test techniques to perform test flights of aircraft to measure performance and handling to determine airworthiness following maintenance or modifications.

  • Perform test flights and demonstrating aircraft proficiency upon completion of aircraft maintenance or modifications on aircraft.

  • Interpret meteorological data as it pertains to filing a flight plan for the navigational course of flight needed for a mission or sortie.

  • File flight plans for all flights using authorized navigational processes.

  • Compute weight and balance logs for the aircraft being flown.

  • Initiate and complete all military flight or maintenance forms to document maintenance test flight completion and discrepancies.

  • Communicate, troubleshoot, advise and work side by side with military pilots and technicians.

  • Determine in accordance with publications and procedures the airworthiness of aircraft prior to release for flight.

  • Communicate, troubleshoot, advise and work side by side with military pilots and technicians.

  • Perform recovery flights and ferries aircraft to additional sites, such as depots.

  • Perform troubleshooting procedures of aircraft on the ground and during flight and makes appropriate write-ups or gives verbal instructions to correct deficiencies.

  • Run-up aircraft for alert status to perform test on modifications.

  • Deploy when required to support contract requirements when maintenance test flights are anticipated.

  • Ferry flights as assigned

  • As qualified may perform as site safety specialist and/or additional duties safety officer functions.

  • May support AS9100-AS9110 internal audits, corrective action requests, assist section, department, and/or program in developing plans to correct identified shortfalls.

  • May assist with continual improvement initiatives.

  • As qualified may perform Chief or Lead pilot duties as designated by the Site Supervision.

  • Must be capable of Aircraft Technical Inspection (TI) as additional duty.

  • Plan and conduct aircraft technical inspections.

  • Inspect power plant hot section, cold section and accessory modules.

  • Provide technical guidance to repairs performing aircraft and subsystem maintenance techniques and safety procedures.

  • Maintains technical library, inspect systems, subsystems, and components according to applicable technical publications and checklists before, during and after airplane maintenance and modifications.

  • Evaluate operational readiness of aircraft and recommend corrective action.

  • Inspect crash-damaged aircraft and estimates time, parts and costs to repair.

  • Evaluate maintenance operations and facilities for compliance with directives, technical manuals, work standards, safety procedures, and operational policies.

  • Performs maintenance trend analysis and applies production control, quality control and other maintenance management principles and procedures to aircraft maintenance operations.

  • Perform other qualified duties as assigned


Requirements for Hire:

  • Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent.

  • Minimum of 1000 hours of PIC preferred.

  • Minimum of ten (10) years of aviation maintenance experience required.

  • Proficient in flying operations of the aircraft they are assigned (CH47).

  • Active Secret Clearance required and the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret Clearance.

  • Completed military flight and applicable training courses as required IAW 95-20

  • Satisfactorily completed a proficiency check within the previous 12 months.

  • Successfully complete initially and annually thereafter an Army or FAA Class II flight physical.

  • Possess an instrument rating on their FAA Commercial Certificates.

  • Possess a current valid Army or FAA Class II Medical Certificate.

  • Successfully completed Army Maintenance Test Pilots Course (MTPC) or complete an equivalency evaluation IAW AR 95-1 and 95-20.

  • Successfully completed the US Army Aircraft Maintenance Officers Course (AMOC) Phase II or complete an equivalency evaluation IAW AR 95-1 and 95-20.

  • Demonstrated proven and verifiable aviation experience including ethics, ability and professionalism of the highest standards are required for this position.

  • Must have demonstrated communication skills, both oral and written. Must be fluent in the English language.

  • Working knowledge for operating navigational and communication equipment installed on the aircraft.

  • Capable of computing and annotating weight and balance logs for the aircraft.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment

  • May be exposed to extreme noise from turbine and jet engine aircraft.

  • May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles; may be exposed to electrical shock hazards or work near moving mechanical parts and vehicles.

  • May be exposed to a wide variety of operational circumstances, including extreme weather conditions and rudimentary infrastructure.

  • Must be able to distinguish color and judge three-dimensional depth.

  • Must be able to see aircraft in flight, read dials/gauges, identify small objects and hand tools.

  • Must be physically capable of climbing vertical ladders or built-in aircraft steps to heights of 10-12 feet.

  • May be exposed to chemical mist, gas, vapors, ultra-violet and infrared radiation.

  • May be required to lift to 50 pounds to a height of four (4) feet and be required to lift to 20 pounds to a height of seven (7) feet.

  • May be exposed to certain obstructions on the surface as well as ladders, stairs, etc.

  • May be exposed to rapid or extreme temperature changes.

Compensation Details:

CBA $53.03

Original Posting:

06/22/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.