1

Test Pilot Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

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

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Bastrop, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Lockhart, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Jonestown, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Manchaca, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Rosanky, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Uhland, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Manor, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Woodcreek, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Elgin, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Leander, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Lakeway, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Kyle, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Austin, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Hutto, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Buda, TX

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Test Pilot information

See Austin, TX salary details

$80.8K

$104.2K

$174.5K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in Austin, TX is $104,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,800.00 and $106,600.00 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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in Austin, TX?

For Test Pilot jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Test Pilot jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Test Pilot job openings:

Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,186 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

New Job Posting Notification Test

Lever Demo 2

Austin, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job