Aerospace Research Pilot & Flight Test Specialist

NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Palmdale (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center seeks a Research Pilot to conduct experimental flight tests and support aeronautics and Earth science missions. You will fly a range of aircraft, including upcoming Boeing 737/777 research flights, while collaborating with engineers and scientists to meet mission objectives.

The role requires FAA pilot certification with instrument rating or military equivalence, 1,500 PIC hours (500+ in jets), and specialized experience at GS-14 level, plus strong safety

Qualifications

• Current FAA commercial pilot's license with instrument rating OR equivalent military rating.
• 1,500 hours pilot-in-command with at least 500 hours in jet aircraft with ≥3,000 lb thrust per engine.
• One year of directly related specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental and developmental flight tests and support airborne science missions.
• Plan and execute flight research missions with engineers and project teams as test pilot.
• Operate aircraft with scientific payloads, remote sensing systems, and research instrumentation while ensuring safety and data quality.
• Work with Airborne Science scientists to optimize flight lines and mission profiles in real time.
• Maintain proficiency across multiple aircraft and handle in-flight and on-ground emergencies.

Skills

Pilot qualifications

Flight hours

Test flight experience

Education

ABET-accredited engineering program

STEM degree with calculus/electronics

Job description

NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center seeks a Research Pilot to conduct experimental flight tests and support aeronautics and Earth science missions. You will fly a range of aircraft, including upcoming Boeing 737/777 research flights, while collaborating with engineers and scientists to meet mission objectives.

The role requires FAA pilot certification with instrument rating or military equivalence, 1,500 PIC hours (500+ in jets), and specialized experience at GS-14 level, plus strong safety