General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) | Test Pilot

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), a global leader in remotely piloted aircraft systems, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Test Pilot for its facility in Palmdale, California . This senior-level, full-time position offers a unique opportunity to serve as an Experimental Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and Flight Examiner for advanced Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) .

About the Role

The selected Test Pilot will act as a subject matter expert for all aspects of GA-ASI's family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, including aircraft hardware and software, ground control station systems, and operational and experimental ground and flight testing. Responsibilities encompass ensuring standardization of ground and flight operations, developing and verifying procedures, and providing expert consultation to executive management on aircraft development and mission execution. Key duties include:

• Perform as an Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot.
• Serve as an Instructor Test Pilot and company Flight Examiner.
• Act as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) of Company Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs).
• Develop and execute mission planning, briefing, mission execution, and debriefing.
• Instruct UAV student pilots and instructor pilots-in-training in all aspects of UAV ground and flight operations, including academic and in-flight instruction.
• Ensure compliance with all governing regulations, including service guidance, company procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations.
• Consult with engineering and senior management as a subject matter expert in developing the company's product line of aircraft.
• Develop and verify procedures for use with new aircraft features.
• Develop training syllabus courseware, including research, word processing, and presentation development.

Requirements

Qualified candidates for this Test Pilot role must possess a strong aviation background and comprehensive understanding of technical principles relevant to Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Specific requirements include:

• Education or formal training equivalent to a four-year technical degree, combined with ten or more years of progressive experience in ground and flight test operations. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be considered in lieu of education.
• A current FAA Commercial Certificate with an Instrument Rating .
• A current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate .
• A minimum of 2000 hours logged total pilot time, including 1500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC), 500 hours Cross Country, 100 hours Instrument, and 500 hours in turbine aircraft.
• Excellent organizational skills for planning and coordinating work assignments.
• Strong interpersonal skills, emphasizing teamwork and effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers.
• Strong knowledge of computer applications and operations pertinent to the position.
• Ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
• US Citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

Candidates with the following experience and certifications are highly encouraged to apply:

• Previous experience with Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or military aviation background.
• Possession of FAA Instructor Rating (CFI) and Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument (CFII) in manned aircraft.
• Graduation from a recognized Test Pilot School .