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Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Joby Aviation

Flight Research Test Pilot

Concord, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Dormont Manufacturing Co

Sr Staff Test Pilot

Melbourne, KY · On-site

$201.40 - $302.20/hr

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.

New

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

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 ...

Flock

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of our drone systems, and providing critical insights and improvements for our technology.

Flock Safety

UAS Test Pilot

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

The UAS Test Pilot will be an individual contributor responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of our drone systems, and providing critical insights and improvements for our technology.

Wisk

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Hollister, CA · On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Staff Test Pilot to join us in the test, evaluation and certification of a new class of all-electric aircraft. As a member of our Flight Test team, you will be working ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA

$91K - $127K/yr

What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on Neros systems. This role will be primarily field testing and piloting FPV drones. The ideal candidate ...

Neros Technologies

FPV Test Pilot

Torrance, CA · On-site

$91K - $127K/yr

What you will be doing Neros is seeking a test pilot to run flight testing and qualification on Neros systems. This role will be primarily field testing and piloting FPV drones. The ideal candidate ...

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Test Pilot information

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$81.5K

$105.1K

$176K

How much do test pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 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.

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.
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Test Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,110 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Maintenance Test Pilot

Maintenance Test Pilot

Strata-G Solutions

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 23 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.


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