Federal Aviation Administration | Pilot

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 scope, the FAA manages diverse operations including navigational aid inspections, equipment commissioning, research and development, and emergency response. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the safety and integrity of the national airspace system.

Key Responsibilities

Selected pilots will support the FAA’s mission by operating aircraft in various conditions to ensure national airspace safety. Missions include:

• Conducting routine inspections of ground-based navigational aids.
• Commissioning new aviation equipment at domestic and international airports.
• Performing research, development, testing, and evaluation of cutting-edge avionics technology.
• Flight-testing new procedures to ensure public safety.
• Executing transportation and critical event response missions for government agencies.

Qualifications and Requirements

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

• Certificates: Must possess a valid Commercial pilot certificate with airplane, multi-engine land, and instrument ratings OR an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with multi-engine land rating. Candidates without an ATP must successfully complete the ATP written exam within 60 days of appointment.
• Medical: Must possess a valid first or second-class medical certificate. Candidates must obtain a first-class medical certificate prior to appointment.
• Selective Placement Factor: To qualify at the FV-J (FG-14) level, applicants must possess an ATP certificate AND an Airspace Inspection Pilot (ASIP) credential.

Flight Hour Requirements

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

Note: Applicants must provide FAA Form 3330-47-3 to verify flight hours. Specific waivers for in-service placement may apply to certain flight hour requirements.

Conditions of Employment

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Selective Service registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
• Subject to designated or random drug testing.
• Successful completion of a security investigation may be required.
• A one-year probationary period may be required.
• Potential requirement to file a financial disclosure statement.

Application Process

Applicants must apply online to be considered. Responses to Knowledge, Skills, and Ability (KSA) factors should be integrated directly into the work history section of the application, providing specific examples that demonstrate the required level of expertise. Applicants will be evaluated based on their application package and FAA Form 3330-47-3.

Additional Information

This position is covered by the FAA Core Compensation plan. Positions may be filled at the FV-I or FV-J levels, with promotion potential from the FV-I to the FV-J. Office locations include Arlington, VA; Kennesaw, GA; Atlantic City, NJ; Battle Creek, MI; Oklahoma City, OK; Fort Worth, TX; Sacramento, CA; and Anchorage, AK.