Senior UAV Test Pilot & Flight Examiner

General Atomics; Palmdale (CA); On-site; USD 141,000 - 252,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance provided

Onsite work

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. in Palmdale, CA, is seeking a Test Pilot to serve as Experimental Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and/or Flight Examiner for the company’s UAV fleet and associated ground control systems.

The role requires a strong aviation background, extensive flight test experience, and FAA certifications. You will lead mission planning, training, and regulatory compliance while collaborating with engineering and senior management to advance the product line.

Qualifications

• Typically requires a four-year technical degree and 10+ years in ground and flight test operations.
• Must have FAA Commercial Certificate with instrument rating and current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
• 3,000 hours total pilot time including 2,000 PIC, 750 Cross Country, 150 Instrument, and 1,000 hours in turbine aircraft.
• Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to work with multiple teams.

Responsibilities

• Perform as Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot.
• Perform as Instructor Test Pilot and Flight Examiner.
• Pilot-in-Command of Company Unmanned Air Vehicles.
• Develop mission planning, briefing, execution and debriefing.
• Instruct UAV student pilots and instructors in ground and flight operations.
• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, company procedures, and guidelines.
• Consult with engineering and senior management as SME for product lines.

Skills

FAA certificates

Test pilot

Flight testing

UAV experience

Safety culture

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or technical field

Job description

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. in Palmdale, CA, is seeking a Test Pilot to serve as Experimental Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and/or Flight Examiner for the company’s UAV fleet and associated ground control systems.

The role requires a strong aviation background, extensive flight test experience, and FAA certifications. You will lead mission planning, training, and regulatory compliance while collaborating with engineering and senior management to advance the product line.