Research Pilot, Aeronautics Flight Test & Payload Missions

NASA; Edwards Air Force Base (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center is seeking a highly skilled Research Pilot to support aeronautics flight research and Earth science missions. The role involves conducting experimental tests, flying a range of aircraft, and contributing to mission success with emphasis on safety and data quality.

You will collaborate with engineers and project teams to plan missions, operate aircraft with science payloads, and maintain proficiency across multiple platforms while managing in-flight

Qualifications

• Experience as a test pilot or similar role in aeronautics research.
• Strong understanding of flight operations, safety, and mission data quality.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a Research Pilot in the Flight Operations Branch to execute aeronautics and airborne science missions.
• Collaborate with engineers and project teams to plan and execute flight research.
• Operate aircraft with scientific payloads and special instrumentation while ensuring safety and data quality.
• Maintain proficiency across multiple aircraft and manage in-flight emergencies.

Skills

Aviation experience

Test pilot

Instrument flying

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physical Science, Mathematics, Life Science or Computer Science

Job description

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center is seeking a highly skilled Research Pilot to support aeronautics flight research and Earth science missions. The role involves conducting experimental tests, flying a range of aircraft, and contributing to mission success with emphasis on safety and data quality.

You will collaborate with engineers and project teams to plan missions, operate aircraft with science payloads, and maintain proficiency across multiple platforms while managing in-flight