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Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hermeus

Test Pilot

Los Angeles, CA

$135K - $250K/yr

Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and Experience * Instructor pilot experience * Knowledge of military or FAA Airworthiness requirements

Northrop Grumman

Sr Staff Test Pilot

Melbourne, FL

$201K - $302K/yr

The Chief Test Pilot (CTP) is a key contributor to the program and sits on the program leadership team. The CTP will support the design, development, and certification of the aircraft and air system.

Garmin Ltd.

Flight Test Pilot 3

Salem, OR · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Overview We are seeking a full-time Flight Test Pilot 3 at Garmin's Salem, OR location. In this role, you will be responsible for providing technical leadership in performance of flight test pilot ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot (East Garrison)

East Garrison, CA · On-site

$187K - $250K/yr

Formal test pilot training and/or experience is essential, as is flexibility in outlook to adapt core flight test principles to a radically new aviation environment. VSTOL, DER or AR qualification is ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$97K - $167K/yr

Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing on ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA

$97K - $167K/yr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing ...

Joby Aviation

Test Pilot DER

Marina, CA · On-site

$222K - $286K/yr

This position requires a blend of formal test-pilot training and the flexibility to apply foundational principles in a new fly-by-wire environment. As a key member of our certification team, you will ...

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, NH · On-site

$97 - $167/hr

Overview Joby Aviation's Flight Research team is looking for a Test Pilot to operate research and development crewed and UAS platforms, with the primary focus of the Cessna Caravan program. Drawing ...

Hermeus

Test Pilot

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Military or civilian flight test experience, or test pilot school graduate Preferred Skills and Experience * Instructor pilot experience * Knowledge of military or FAA Airworthiness requirements

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Test Pilot information

See salary details

$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for test pilot in the United States is $105,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $107,500.00 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.
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Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Maintenance Test Pilot

Strata-G Solutions

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

At Strata-G, we know it takes talented and dedicated people to deliver solutions for a greater cause, and we consider our employees to be our greatest asset. We are a growing, dynamic organization offering diverse challenges to innovative professionals.
We are looking for a skilled and experienced Maintenance Test Pilot to join our team supporting CH-47 aircraft operations. In this role, you will oversee and conduct maintenance test flights, ensure compliance with company procedures and FAA regulations, and provide technical guidance on flight and ground operations. The ideal candidate will maintain required flight currency, uphold FAA medical standards, and contribute to the safe and efficient execution of all maintenance flight activities
This position is pending contract award.
Responsibilities
  • Have and maintain an FAA Pilot Certificate (Drone part 107 optional, Commercial Instrument Rotary Wing mandatory)
  • Coordinating Strata-G's Aviation Maintenance Test Flight Operations by preparing guidance, procedures, reviews, and assessments of all documented procedures, help improve/design test flight areas, improve safety of the assigned personnel in maintenance operations.
  • Mentor junior employees in assigned aircraft, provide support to improve safety, quality, and compliance with established procedures.
  • Being Responsible for Maintaining adequately trained personnel available to perform maintenance, and functional check tasks as required for efficient hangar operations.
  • Being Responsible for ensuring that all assigned Personnel, Orientations, and Maintenance Requirements are Performed, Documented and in accordance with DCMA INST 8210 for DoD work, and FAA standards for Civil work.
  • Responsible for maintaining government property and reporting within the scope of any Government Assigned/Provided/Furnished Equipment (GFE)
  • Responsible to complete personal annual performance evaluations and test flight examinations.
  • Provide hiring/firing input as a MTP/ME for assigned Aviation Operations

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in relevant field or in lieu of degree, minimum of 5 years lead/supervisory experience. Military Flight School Graduation Certificate, no adverse actions that would disqualify aviation operations, and Federal Aviation Regulation compliance.
  • FAA Pilot License or US Military Rating as Pilot, Maintenance Test Pilot, or Maintenance Examiner in rotary wing aircraft and/or Part 107 drone operations
  • Effective communication skills
  • Excellent Pilot and Leadership skills
  • Team Building skills
  • Knowledge of FAA and Military flight requirements including airspace, weather, health and exogenous factors
  • Must be eligible for and able to maintain a Secret Clearance.

Apply