Electra | Test Pilot

Test Pilot

Location: Manassas, VA

Employment Type: Full Time

Salary Range: $160,000 - $200,000 per year

About Electra

Electra is developing next-generation Ultra Short aircraft for Direct Aviation, aiming to redefine connectivity without airports, emissions, or noise. Electra's innovative aircraft will revolutionize air travel by bringing it closer to where people live, work, and play, fostering new connections. This venture offers an exciting and fast-paced environment for talented individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact.

Job Description

Electra is seeking an experienced Test Pilot to support the development and piloting of its two-seat prototype and 9-passenger hybrid electric, blown wing, UltraShort (eSTOL) aircraft. This hands-on role offers a direct impact on the future of aviation and advanced air mobility. Based in Manassas, Virginia, the Test Pilot will be part of a high-performing flight team focused on supplying accurate, repeatable, and cost-effective data to the engineering group. The primary responsibility involves piloting experimental technical demonstrators and other products. Additional duties include normal Test Pilot responsibilities related to testing and certification, as well as developing user interfaces, operating procedures, and training. This role will also support the development, certification, and demonstration of STOL test and evaluation.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions

• Complete experimental flight tests in an UltraShort take-off and landing aircraft.
• Coordinate with flight test engineering teams to develop test plans, test cards, and test procedures.
• Develop and maintain flight manuals, operations, checklists, and procedures.
• Lead and/or participate in safety of flight and flight readiness review boards.
• Complete all required documentation in accordance with established company and FAA procedures.
• Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or related field.
• Ten (10) or more years of experience as a flight test engineer or test pilot directly related to the flight evaluation of crewed aircraft.

Required Skills

• Commercial pilot license, single-engine and multi-engine land, with instrument rating.
• FAA Class II Medical - Without limitations.
• Total time: 1500 hours in aircraft.
• 100 hours turbine PIC time.
• 1000 hours in the airplane category.
• 100 hours testing experimental aircraft.
• Long course graduate of a recognized test pilot school or five years of equivalent experimental test pilot experience.
• Experience with risk management, including hazard identification and preparing risk assessments.
• Experience with experimental aircraft certification and testing.
• Familiarity with standard flight test processes and procedures.
• Knowledge of the FAA civil certification process.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proactive delivery of communication and follow up.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to independently prioritize and accomplish work within time constraints.
• Strong work ethic and ability to independently execute responsibilities.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills; ability to work effectively under pressure and with a team.

Desired Qualifications

• Master's degree in engineering or related field.
• Experience working with the FAA and familiarization with aircraft, helicopter, or powered lift FAA certification programs.
• Experience supporting the envelope expansion of new model aircraft.
• Formation flying, flight training, and media demos experience.
• Experience developing/optimizing simulators/ground control station and training equipment.
• Experience in developing digital flight control systems.
• Experience flight testing rapid prototype aircraft and components.
• Experience working in fast-paced small teams.

Travel

Up to 50% domestic and international travel.

Salary

Electra's salary range for this position is $160,000 - $200,000.00. Salary ranges reflect the minimum and maximum range for the Company level overall across all locations and projects and do not necessarily reflect the budgeted amount for this position. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and/or training, role, level, location, and project.