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Test Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

KY · On-site

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-47G helicopter. Duties include but are not limited to MTF (Maintenance Test Flight), FTF (Functional Test Flight), and MOC (Maintenance ...

KY · On-site

This position is a Maintenance Test Pilot for the MH-6 helicopter. Duties include but are not limited to MTF (Maintenance Test Flight), FTF (Functional Test Flight), and MOC (Maintenance Operational ...

Perform engineering flight tests to evaluate system performance, stability, and reliability * Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC) and make real-time go/no-go decisions based on safety and readiness

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 ...

We are Lockheed Martin You will be a C-130J Test Pilot for the C-130 Flight Operations team. Our team is responsible for conducting acceptance check flights of newly assembled C-130J aircraft and ...

The CH47- Maintenance Test Pilot utilizes flight test techniques to perform test flights of aircraft to measure performance and handling to determine airworthiness following maintenance or ...

UAS Test Pilot

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Perform engineering flight tests to evaluate system performance, stability, and reliability * Serve as pilot-in-command (PIC) and make real-time go/no-go decisions based on safety and readiness

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Test Pilot information

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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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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.
Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Sr. Staff Test Pilot

Wisk Aero

Hollister, CA • On-site

$192K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

At Wisk, we're transforming the future of urban mobility through safe, all-electric, autonomous flight. We are a passionate team working together toward a sustainable future, solving high-impact problems that have never been solved before. By delivering everyday flight for everyone, we're making it possible to spend less time getting there and more time being there. If you want to be part of shaping the future of mobility, then read on!
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 closely with fellow test pilots, flight test technicians, flight test engineers, system engineers and our certification group to verify and validate a revolutionary new aircraft design. Wisk recognizes the challenges that the UAM industry faces in the certification of our vehicles. We are taking a pragmatic approach to this task and consequently are looking for experienced flight test personnel to join our talented team to make the certification process as efficient and effective as possible.
Due to the nature of the work required for this position, this is an onsite opportunity working from our Hollister, CA flight test facility. Occasional travel to offsite test locations and training facilities will be part of the scope of your duties.
Your role will involve the authoring of air vehicle and subsystem test plans, evaluating hazards posed by the method and scope of test, and establishing appropriate mitigations. You will conduct flight test and safety chase, piloting our general aviation support aircraft, our surrogate flying test beds, and our un-crewed aircraft systems. In addition, you will develop, review and approve trajectory planning for our UAS mission profiles. Further, you will report test results to a standard required by certification authorities and you will also support the development of program documentation including restrictions and special instructions to test, Aircraft Flight Manuals and Standard Operating Procedures. Most critically, you will mentor and lead fellow flight testers, supporting their professional development while exemplifying the elements of Wisk's Safety Management System.
Requirements:
  • 12+ years experience as a test pilot in flight testing fixed/rotary-wing aircraft or similarly complex aerospace systems.
  • FAA Commercial Pilot or ATP certificate (Fixed or Rotary Wing)
  • Minimum FAA Second Class Medical certificate
  • Bachelors of Science degree in a relevant engineering or technical field
  • Graduate of an engineering test pilot school or program.
  • Depth of experience with both Flight and Operations Safety Risk Management
  • Capability to work within the engineering organization to inform vehicle design
  • Experience mission-relating engineering data to operational use cases.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills for multi-disciplinary collaboration and mentoring.
  • 2,500+ hours of flight experience, with 200+ hrs in flight test
  • Experience conducting flight programs pursuing FAA/TCCA/EASA Certification
  • Unmanned aircraft flight test experience
  • Electric propulsion or high stored energy test experience
  • Both fixed-wing and turbine-engine rotary-wing flight test experience
  • Human-to-vehicle interface design, test and evaluation experience
  • Formal formation flight training and subsequent formation flight experience
  • Masters degree in a relevant engineering or technical field
  • Familiarity with MBSE processes

Job Type: Full-time
Pay range the company expects to pay: $192,000 - $240,000 per year - The starting base salary within this range for this role varies based on factors such as your geographical location, and your relevant job-related experience that is consistent with a business necessity.
Wisk HQ is located in Mountain View just a couple of hundred feet from Shoreline Lake and its surrounding walking/jogging trails. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, 9 off Fridays for full-time employees throughout the year, flexible vacation time off, 11 company holidays, a 401(k) plan with 50% company matching vested immediately, commuter assistance, and education assistance. And on top of all that, we also offer a variety of perks such as free catered lunches, flight lessons, wellness allowances, snacks, drinks, employee referral bonus, charitable giving match, patent bonus program, and more.
To all recruitment agencies: Wisk Aero does not accept agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Wisk Aero employees, or any other organization location. Wisk Aero is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.
Wisk Aero provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, ethnic or national origin, age, disability/handicap, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, sexual orientation, civil status, political convictions, language, social condition, or any other protected characteristics. In addition to federal law requirements, Wisk Aero abides by applicable provincial and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training
Wisk Aero is an E-Verify employer.