10 April 2026

Federal Aviation Administration | Pilot

United States

Aviation Pilot / Flight Program Operations

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking qualified pilots to join the Flight Program Operations team. As a part 135 certificate holder with a mission-critical mandate, the FAA maintains the safety and integrity of the national airspace system through ground-based navigational aid inspections, equipment commissioning, flight research, and critical event response.

Position Overview

This position is part of a unique government organization supporting national infrastructure and military operations across all weather conditions. Selected candidates will join a high-performing team tasked with advancing aviation technology and ensuring public safety. Operations are based in various locations, including Arlington, VA; Kennesaw, GA; Atlantic City, NJ; Battle Creek, MI; Oklahoma City, OK; Fort Worth, TX; Sacramento, CA; and Anchorage, AK.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conducting routine inspections of ground-based navigational aids.
  • Commissioning new aviation equipment domestically and internationally.
  • Executing research, development, test, and evaluation missions using advanced avionics.
  • Performing flight tests for new procedures to ensure public safety.
  • Supporting transportation and critical event response missions for government agencies.

Qualifications and Eligibility

Applicants must demonstrate the appropriate FAA pilot certificates and flight hour requirements. All candidates must submit FAA Form 3330-47-3 to verify flight experience.

Required Certificates and Ratings:

  • Valid Commercial pilot certificate with airplane, multi-engine land, and instrument ratings OR an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with multi-engine land rating.
  • Valid first or second-class medical certificate (A first-class medical certificate is required prior to appointment).
  • Selected candidates without an ATP certificate must successfully complete the ATP written exam within 60 days of appointment.
  • For the FV-J (FG-14) level, candidates must possess an ATP certificate and an Airspace Inspection Pilot (ASIP) credential.

Flight Experience Requirements:

  • Total Flight Time: 1,500 hours
  • Pilot-in-Command (PIC) Time: 250 hours
  • Multi-engine Airplane Time: 500 hours
  • Instrument Time: 75 hours (minimum of 10 hours in actual instrument weather)
  • Night Flying Time: 75 hours
  • Flight Time (Last 12 Months): 100 hours

Conditions of Employment

  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Selective Service Registration is required for males born after December 31, 1959.
  • Participation in designated or random drug testing.
  • Successful completion of a security investigation.
  • Completion of a one-year probationary period.
  • Potential requirement to file a financial disclosure statement.

Application Process

Eligible candidates will be evaluated based on the application package and FAA Form 3330-47-3. Applicants must provide specific examples in their work history that demonstrate their ability to perform the duties of the position. This position utilizes the FAA Core Compensation plan and may be eligible for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) benefits. The FAA is an equal opportunity employer and maintains a comprehensive federal benefits package.

Apply

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