Chief Test Pilot - Experimental Flight Test
On-site · Jacksonville, Florida, United States
Job Summary
Chief Test Pilot for experimental and certification flight tests; lead and execute the airborne flight test campaign for a clean-sheet turbine aircraft from first flight through type certification. Responsibilities include serving as PIC, authoring and approving test pilot reports and performance assessments, contributing to AFM development and design reviews, leading FTPs/FTRs, establishing SMS and flight operations procedures, developing pilot training and SOPs, recruiting and managing test pilots and crew, defining crew coordination standards and risk frameworks, interfacing with FAA and certification authorities, and ensuring compliance with 14 CFR Parts 21/23/25, Part 91. Location is onsite in Jacksonville, FL with up to ~25% travel. Required education, extensive flight-test experience, leadership in certification programs, FAA ATP and medical, and strong communication skills are emphasized.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field
- Graduation from an accredited Test Pilot School (USAF TPS, USN TPS, NTPS, ETPS, EPNER, or equivalent)
- Minimum 15+ years of progressive flight test experience
- Minimum 3,500 total flight hours including turbine aircraft experience
- Significant experience conducting experimental or certification flight testing as PIC
- Demonstrated leadership on turbine aircraft certification programs
- Deep expertise in aircraft systems, aerodynamics, handling qualities, and certification processes
- Experience authoring flight test documentation (FTP, FTR, etc.)
- Strong communication skills interfacing with engineering teams and regulatory authorities
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and current First Class Medical (or ability to obtain)
Additional Requirements
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States
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