Experimental Flight Test Pilot

Responsibilities

• Serve as PIC for development, research, and certification flight tests of experimental rotorcraft.
• Conduct varying, complex flight test projects for rotorcraft including writing flight test plans, test cards, flight reports, and test reports.
• Lead and/or participate in ground and flight tests as pilot, test crew member, or Test Conductor.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop test strategies, determine test configurations, plan, and execute test programs in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.
• Contribute insights and innovations to improve the product and organization.
• Participate in multi-disciplinary design reviews and assist with resolving cross-functional technical issues.
• Participate in the Flight Test Safety Program to ensure safety objectives are accomplished including participation in flight test plan reviews, test flights, pre and post test flight briefings, and test readiness reviews.
• Interface with regulator (FAA, EASA, TCCA, etc) flight test personnel to conduct flight test aspects of aircraft certification.
• Maintain required records and conduct audits to verify compliance with processes and procedures.
• Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types.

Requirements

• Pilot graduate of a SETP recognized test pilot school or possess substantial experience in development and certification flight test programs.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering field or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years’ experience as an experimental RW test pilot.
• FAA Commercial Helicopter Pilot Certificate.
• FAA Second Class Medical.
• Minimum 1,000 hrs Helicopter PIC time.
• Significant experience managing Risk and Safety in the flight test environment.
• Experience in development and type certification flight test programs for fixed or rotary-wing aircraft.
• Excellent academic record.
• Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Team-oriented, possess a positive attitude, and work well with others.
• Able to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel periodically.
• Proven self-starter requiring minimal supervision, with strong project management, organization, and risk management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office products and engineering software tools.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in multiple makes and models of rotorcraft.
• DER and/or ODA experience.
• Master’s degree in engineering.
• Human-to-vehicle interface design, test and evaluation experience.
• FAA Helicopter Instructor pilot certificate and experience.
• Previous experience with advanced flight controls.