Flight Test Pilot 4

About the role

We are seeking a full-time Flight Test Pilot 4 at Garmin's U.S. headquarters in the Greater Kansas City area. In this role, you will be a key technical contributor, acting as Pilot in Command for difficult or high-risk tests, leading complex flight test projects, and developing flight test strategies for advanced programs.

Responsibilities

• Act as Pilot in Command for experimental aircraft with significant changes to certificated design and conduct difficult, high-risk tests or tests that require refined pilot technique.
• Act as Flight Test Project Lead for complex projects, including developing effective test strategies for complex test programs.
• Propose basic new designs and concepts that address previously unmet operational and user needs.
• Maintain complex test aircraft configurations, including multiple test aircraft programs, and coordinate with engineering teams.
• Serve as an expert in test aircraft operations and act as a valuable resource to project and maintenance teams.
• Provide insight into difficult issues through independent research.
• Identify and track issues during flight test and proactively drive resolution for large, complex projects.
• Leverage advanced understanding of the aircraft certification process and associated regulations to author certification plans or content for large, complex projects with significant certification issues, such as novel or unusual features.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in resolving difficult certification issues by working with certification authorities.
• Utilize expertise in troubleshooting to assist others in resolving technical issues, including identifying viable, innovative solutions for difficult project issues.
• Proactively work to improve processes, author new procedures, and advance the safety culture of the flight test organization.
• Coordinate overall system roadmaps and product vision with senior management and other project leads.
• Mentor and guide less experienced flight test pilots (Flight Test Pilot 2 & Senior Flight Test Pilots).
• Demonstrate a broad understanding of Garmin’s business model, including operations, production, sales, and marketing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Aerospace Engineering AND a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Excellent academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0 as a general rule).
• Minimum 2,000 hrs. total flight time.
• Previous avionics flight test experience.
• Proficient use of advanced engineering and flight test tools, including performing advanced troubleshooting on complex avionics system installations.
• Previous experience working with certification authorities and advanced understanding of the certification process and associated regulations.
• Expert troubleshooting skills with previous experience in troubleshooting and guiding others in resolving complex technical issues.
• Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Commercial Pilot Certificate.
• Flight Test Pilot DER or ODA Unit Member Qualification.
• 2nd Class FAA Medical Certificate.

Qualifications (Preferred)

• Outstanding academics (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.5).
• Previous experience in systems engineering or software development.
• Helicopter pilot qualifications.

Benefits

This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits.