Research Pilot & Aviation Safety Lead

Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (NASA); Houston (TX); On-site; USD 161,000 - 197,000; Full time

Job summary

Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (NASA) in Houston, TX seeks a Research Pilot/Aviation Safety Officer to pilot research aircraft and lead safety operations across 26 aircraft, multiple types, and 60+ aircrew involved in astronaut readiness and airborne science missions.

The role includes commanding aircraft as PIC, supervising safety reviews, and coordinating with military and civilian partners to mitigate aviation hazards and ensure mission readiness.

Qualifications

• FAA commercial pilot license with instrument rating (or equivalent from armed services).
• Flight hours requirements: 1,500 flight hours as PIC or co-pilot, 250 PIC hours in fixed-wing, 75 hours night, 100 hours in last 12 months.
• One year of directly related specialized experience at GS-13 level including safety, flight operations, and aviation safety management.

Responsibilities

• Serve as instructor pilot aboard high-performance jet trainer and support astronaut readiness training.
• Piloting large two-engine jet and/or four-engine turbo-prop cargo aircraft on diverse missions with possible extended deployments.
• As PIC, manage up to 9 crew and coordinate passengers, engineers and scientists during missions.
• Review engineering designs and readiness proposals to support research flight programs and airborne missions.
• Represent the Aviation Safety Office in Readiness Reviews for modifications and deployments.
• Identify aviation hazards, lead investigations, and contribute to safety inspections and training.

Skills

FAA pilot license with instrument

Military instructor pilot

Flight instructor certification

Job description

Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (NASA) in Houston, TX seeks a Research Pilot/Aviation Safety Officer to pilot research aircraft and lead safety operations across 26 aircraft, multiple types, and 60+ aircrew involved in astronaut readiness and airborne science missions.

The role includes commanding aircraft as PIC, supervising safety reviews, and coordinating with military and civilian partners to mitigate aviation hazards and ensure mission readiness.