Aerospace Research Pilot & Flight Test Engineer

NASA; Edwards Air Force Base (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Armstrong Flight Research Center seeks a highly skilled Research Pilot to support aeronautics flight research and Earth science missions. The role involves conducting experimental flight tests, supporting airborne science operations, and flying a range of aircraft, including upcoming 737/777 research flights.

The incumbent will collaborate with engineers and project teams to plan, execute missions, and ensure mission safety and data quality, while maintaining proficiency across multiple aircraft

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physical Science, Mathematics, Life Science or Computer Science with required coursework.
• Graduate degree in an AST qualifying field may substitute for the bachelor’s degree.
• ABET accreditation requirement for U.S. engineering degrees.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a Research Pilot in the Flight Operations Branch and execute aeronautics and airborne science research projects.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and technical teams to plan and execute flight research missions and assist in accomplishing mission objectives as a test pilot.
• Operate aircraft carrying scientific payloads, remote sensing systems, and specialized research instrumentation while ensuring mission safety and data quality.
• Work with Airborne Science project scientists to understand data requirements, optimize flight lines, and adjust real-time mission profiles.
• Maintain proficiency in multiple aircraft and demonstrate expertise in handling in-flight and on-ground emergencies.

Job description

Armstrong Flight Research Center seeks a highly skilled Research Pilot to support aeronautics flight research and Earth science missions. The role involves conducting experimental flight tests, supporting airborne science operations, and flying a range of aircraft, including upcoming 737/777 research flights.

The incumbent will collaborate with engineers and project teams to plan, execute missions, and ensure mission safety and data quality, while maintaining proficiency across multiple aircraft