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 ...
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 ...
RTC-IL Remote Pilot Operator
Elgin, IL · On-site +1
$40K - $80K/yr
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 ...
RTC-IL Remote Pilot Operator
Elgin, IL · On-site +1
$40K - $80K/yr
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 ...
RTC-IL Remote Pilot Operator
Elgin, IL · On-site +1
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 ...
RTC-IL Remote Pilot Operator
Elgin, IL · On-site +1
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 ...
Be Seen First
Ignition SCADA Programmer / AMR Integration Consultant (Contract)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$45 - $50/hr
The consultant will be required to travel to Greenville for approximately 3 days to demonstrate the functional AMR test pilot environment alongside the internal AMR resource. * Phase 2: Availability ...
New
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Ignition SCADA Programmer / AMR Integration Consultant (Contract)
Chicago, IL · On-site
$45 - $50/hr
The consultant will be required to travel to Greenville for approximately 3 days to demonstrate the functional AMR test pilot environment alongside the internal AMR resource. * Phase 2: Availability ...
New
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Test Pilot information
See Chicago, IL salary details
$90.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$84K - $92.9K
36% of jobs
The median wage is $97.1K / yr.
$92.9K - $101.7K
28% of jobs
$107.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$101.7K - $110.6K
17% of jobs
$110.6K - $119.5K
6% of jobs
$119.5K - $128.3K
2% of jobs
$128.3K - $137.2K
0% of jobs
$137.2K - $146K
1% of jobs
$146K - $154.9K
2% of jobs
$154.9K - $163.7K
3% of jobs
$163.7K - $172.6K
2% of jobs
$172.6K - $181.4K
2% of jobs
$84K
$108.4K
$181.4K
How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in Chicago, IL is $108,364.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,100.00 and $110,800.00 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?
| Aspect | Test Pilot | Test Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Pilot license, aviation certifications | Engineering degree, technical certifications |
| Work Environment | Aircraft, flight testing facilities | Laboratories, testing sites, design offices |
| Industry Usage | Aerospace, aviation companies | Aerospace, automotive, electronics industries |
| Primary Focus | Flying aircraft to evaluate performance and safety | Designing, 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Test Pilot jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Test Pilot jobs in Chicago, IL? For Test Pilot jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Test Pilot jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Test Pilot jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Other
Posted 8 days ago
SAIC rating
7.9
Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
78th of 223 rated it services
Job description
- PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.
We are looking Full-time, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Regional Training Site, located in Elgin, IL, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Job Description:
The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator. The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.
The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications: 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 control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.
To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.
Required Qualifications:
- Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood
- US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
Desired Skills and Experience:
- Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
- Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
- Effective oral and written communications skills
- Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
- Effective team building skills
- MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
- Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
- Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology
About Science Applications International
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