Lead Test Pilot

Davita Inc.; Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in aviation technology is seeking a Lead Test Pilot to oversee flight operations, coordinate testing and ensure safety standards are met. Candidates should possess a FAA Commercial Pilot ASEL license and have substantial leadership experience in aviation. This is an opportunity to work in an innovative environment focused on transforming air transportation.

Benefits

Stock options

Medical insurance

401k contributions

Collaborative work environment

Casual culture

Qualifications

• FAA Commercial Pilot ASEL with 1500 total flight hours.
• Current Second Class FAA Medical Certificate or higher.
• 2+ years of experience in an aviation leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of flight test pilots and engineers.
• Develop and execute flight test plans.
• Ensure all aspects of experimental flight operations prioritize safety.

Skills

FAA Commercial Pilot ASEL

Experience in aviation leadership

Understanding of FAA certification processes

Knowledge of systems engineering processes

Familiarity with software programming principles

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or science discipline

Graduate of an SETP recognized flight test school

Job description

We're building safety-enhancing technology for aviation that will save lives. Automated aviation systems will enable a future where air transportation is safer, more convenient, and fundamentally transformative to the way goods - and eventually people - move around the planet. We are a team of mission-driven engineers with experience across aerospace, robotics, and self-driving cars working to make this future a reality.

As a Lead Test Pilot, you will have a senior leadership role within the flight operations team at Reliable Robotics. You will provide direction to the team and be a leading voice to help guide the development of our safety-enhancing technology. You will work in a highly collaborative environment and coordinate with multiple engineering teams across the company to develop and execute flight test plans.

Responsibilities

Your primary role as Lead Test Pilot will be to lead a team of motivated flight test pilots and engineers. You will develop and safely execute flight test plans supporting research and development efforts, flying aircraft in onboard and remote configurations. You will coordinate training and scheduling of contract pilots and ensure all aspects of experimental flight operations prioritize safety and success. Additionally, you will coordinate with Reliable's Part 135 airline operations to standardize pilot procedures across the organization. You will be instrumental in executing flight tests, reviewing data, and ensuring proper system operation throughout the development process.

Basic Success Criteria

• FAA Commercial Pilot ASEL with 1500 total flight hours, including at least 500 fixed wing and 500 turbine engine hours
• Experience performing a secondary skillset while piloting (e.g., tactical aircraft, firefighting, cropdusting, SAR, ISR, law enforcement, etc.)
• Current Second Class FAA Medical Certificate or higher
• 2+ years of experience in an aviation leadership role

Preferred Success Criteria

• Graduate of an SETP recognized flight test school
• Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering or science discipline or equivalent industry experience
• Recent Caravan or PT6A experience
• Diversity of experience across multiple aircraft/airframes
• CFII or military flight instructor
• Experience with automated and/or large remotely operated vehicles (UAS, spacecraft, etc.)
• Experience in a Flight Test program focused on Certification
• Experience developing flight procedures, training curricula, and safety management systems
• Experience flying for a 14 CFR part 135 or 121 Air Carrier
• Deep understanding of FAA certification processes and implementation
• Knowledge of systems engineering processes and principles
• Basic familiarity with software programming principles

Must be willing to travel up to 10% of the time.

The estimated salary range for this position is $150,000 to $195,000. Reliable Robotics offers competitive compensation based on experience, expertise, market conditions, location, and pay equity.

Additional benefits include stock options, medical insurance, 401k contributions, a collaborative work environment, and a casual culture.

This position requires access to information subject to U.S. export controls. Employment is contingent upon compliance with U.S. export control laws.

Applicants must provide documentation of their U.S. or non-U.S. person status and nationalities. Non-U.S. persons may require an export license, and the company reserves the right to decline applications accordingly.

Reliable Robotics is committed to diversity and inclusion. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, age, disability, or other protected categories. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

For accommodations during the application process, contact [e-mail]