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Test Pilot Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Moog, Inc.

Engineering Test Pilot

Mineral Wells, TX · On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

Engineering Test Pilot Reporting To: Director, AG Engineering Work Schedule: Onsite - Mineral Wells, TX Our Moog Military Aircraft Group is looking for an Engineering Test Pilot to conduct flight ...

Moog

Engineering Test Pilot

Mineral Wells, TX

$190K - $220K/yr

Engineering Test Pilot Reporting To: Director, AG Engineering Work Schedule: Onsite - Mineral Wells, TX Our Moog Military Aircraft Group is looking for an Engineering Test Pilot to conduct flight ...

Lockheed Martin

F-35 Test Pilot-Level 5

Fort Worth, TX · Hybrid

We are Lockheed Martin You will be a Test Pilot for the Flight Operations team. Lockheed Martin Flight Operations is looking for an energetic test pilot who wants to make a difference. We want a ...

Lockheed Martin

F-35 Test Pilot-Level 5

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$156K - $275K/yr

We are Lockheed Martin You will be a Test Pilot for the Flight Operations team. Lockheed Martin Flight Operations is looking for an energetic test pilot who wants to make a difference. We want a ...

RAVN Group, Inc

Pilot

Houston, TX · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

Additional duties may include various Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) support ... Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner.FAA Class II medical rating.FAA Commercial and Instrument ...

Vectored Approach

Chief Pilot

Austin, TX · On-site

Prepare for and participate in FAA validation tests, proving runs, and inspections. * Ensure ... Ensure pilots deliver exceptional customer service and maintain aircraft presentation standards.

RAVN Aerospace

Pilot

San Antonio, TX

Additional duties may include various Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) support ... Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. * FAA Class II medical rating.

RAVN Aerospace

Pilot

Houston, TX

Additional duties may include various Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) support ... Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. * FAA Class II medical rating.

RAVN Aerospace

Pilot

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Additional duties may include various Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) support ... Pilot in Command, Instructor Pilot, or Stan/Eval Flight Examiner. * FAA Class II medical rating.

Shield AI

Standardization Pilot (R4736)

Dallas, TX

$130K - $200K/yr

Participate in test events, demonstrations, and customer-facing operations as required * Maintain ... Current or prior UAS pilot experience (Group 3-5 preferred) or equivalent military aviation ...

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All JobsTest Pilot JobsTest Pilot Jobs in Texas

Test Pilot information

See Texas salary details

$75.9K

$97.9K

$164K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in Texas is $97,926.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,700.00 and $100,200.00 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 job categories do people searching Test Pilot jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Test Pilot jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Test Pilot jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Test Pilot job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in TX? For Test Pilot jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,926 per year, or $47.1 per hour.
Engineering Test Pilot

Engineering Test Pilot

Moog, Inc.

Mineral Wells, TX • On-site

$190K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 hours ago

Moog Inc. rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

193rd of 486 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Moog is a performance culture that empowers people to achieve great things. Our people enjoy solving interesting technical challenges in a culture where everyone trusts each other to do the right thing. For you, working with us can mean deeper job satisfaction, better rewards, and a great quality of life inside and outside of work.
Job Title:
Engineering Test Pilot
Reporting To:
Director, AG Engineering
Work Schedule:
Onsite - Mineral Wells, TX
Our Moog Military Aircraft Group is looking for an Engineering Test Pilot to conduct flight test and evaluation projects for Moog Avionics. This includes testing fixed wing, rotary wing, and non-standard aircraft and avionics system products. You'll be responsible for conducting safe and professional flight operations in support of flight test, demonstrations, system integration, product development, and certification. Additionally, you'll plan, develop and execute test flights on various aircraft to verify airworthiness and performance capability; validate and verify compliance with specifications and to determine operational effectiveness and/or suitability of the avionics system. This role has an onsite work schedule in Mineral Wells, TX. Moog Avionics delivers customer-focused technologies and customized solutions for Special Mission, Military & Defense, Military Trainer, Business, and General Aviation industries.
Day- to-Day Responsibilities:
  • Provide test pilot expertise to assigned programs; technology/research and product development efforts to ensure man-machine interface issues and requirements are identified for new or modified designs.
  • Provide DER/UM pilot expertise and safety/regulatory guidance to internal departments for design definition, flight test planning, flight test techniques, test reporting and proposal preparation.
  • Identify and report customer, man-machine interface and certification issues to Program Management/Engineering functions.
  • Write and/or review development or certification test plans and reports for assigned flight tests associated with customer programs, internal programs and products.
  • Participate in the planning, coordination, and short-term scheduling of tests to be performed on assigned test aircraft
  • Coordinate with flight test engineers as required ensuring the aircraft is configured properly to meet test objectives.
  • Plan and conduct development and certification flight test activities on assigned airplane.
  • Gather quantitative and qualitative date to determine performance characteristics during flight test
  • Prepare and distribute Flight Reports after each assigned test flight.
  • Perform FAA evaluation flights as required to support ODA or other civil certification projects.
  • Support training department in preparing training material for various avionics products
  • Conduct classroom and/or aircraft training to customers and internal personnel
  • Consult with project personnel and others to provide regulatory/safety/system assistance and information from a pilot perspective.

Here's what you'll bring with you...
  • Bachelor's Degree in engineering, or similar technical foundation to support aircraft design.
  • FAA Commercial pilot certificate (prefer dual-rated pilot- rotorcraft and airplane).
  • Minimum 1,500 hours total flight time.
  • Two years of test pilot experience on developmental flight test programs.
  • FAA Second Class medical certificate.
  • Graduate of a recognized Test Pilot School or equivalent test pilot training.
  • Must be willing to travel domestically and internationally up to 30% to support offsite flight testing.
  • Knowledge of applicable Federal Aviation Regulations for flight operations and aircraft certification. Able to be designated as an ODA Unit Member and/or FAA Flight Test Pilot DER. Previous designation preferred.
  • Must have the physical ability to operate cockpit flight controls with up to 150 lbs. of rudder forces, elevator forces up to 120 lbs., and aileron forces up to 90 lbs.
  • Must be a U.S citizen.

Our Benefits - How We Care for You:
  • Financial Rewards: great compensation package, annual profit sharing, matching 401k and the ability to participate in Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Work/Life Balance: Flexible paid time off, holidays and parental leave program, relocation assistance
  • Health & Welfare: Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, Employee Assistance Plan ("EAP") and other supplemental benefit coverages
  • Professional Skills Development: Tuition Assistance, mentorship and coaching opportunities, leadership development and other personal growth programs
  • Collaborative and Welcoming Workplace: Inclusive culture rooted in our values, enhanced by Employee Resource Groups, and team-building activities.
  • Additional site-specific benefits may be offered
  • Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 10 hour shifts

#LI-Onsite
Salary Range Transparency:
Mineral Wells, TX $190,000.00-$220,000.00 Annually
Salary Range Disclaimer
The base salary range represents the low and high end of the Moog salary range for this position in the given work location. Actual salaries will vary depending on factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range(s) listed is just one component of Moog's total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, employee stock purchase plan, an open paid time off policy, and many region-specific benefits.
This position requires access to U.S. export-controlled information.
EOE/AA Minority/Female/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Veteran
Moog is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department via phone at 844-367-5787.
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Absent compliance with these pre-conditions resumes submitted directly to any Moog Inc. employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Moog Inc.

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About Moog

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1951 with the invention of the servo valve by Bill Moog, a breakthrough in motion control systems, Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B) has evolved into a global leader in motion control parts and systems. Headquartered in East Aurora, NY, we serve customers in over 90 countries, with operations spanning more than 27 countries and a dedicated workforce of nearly 13,000 professionals. Our organization comprises three operating groups: Aircraft, Industrial, and Space and Defense. Our high-performance systems drive military and commercial aircraft, satellites, launch vehicles, missiles, industrial machinery, marine, and medical equipment. At Moog, our focus lies in crafting high-performance solutions to solve the most challenging technical problems for our customers. Beyond technical prowess, Moog fosters a performance culture empowering employees to achieve greatness. Our team thrives on tackling engaging technical challenges within a culture of trust, offering rewarding job experiences and a fulfilling work-life balance.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Aurora, NY, US

Year founded

1951

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