Experimental Test Pilot, Instructor & Flight Examiner (UAS)
About General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI)
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an esteemed affiliate of General Atomics, is recognized globally as a pioneering leader in the development and deployment of proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft. The company is at the forefront of innovation, specializing in advanced tactical reconnaissance radars and sophisticated high-resolution surveillance systems. GA-ASI’s commitment to excellence and cutting-edge technology positions it as a vital contributor to national and international security and advanced aerospace capabilities.
Position Summary
GA-ASI is actively seeking a distinguished professional to assume the multifaceted role of Experimental Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and/or Flight Examiner. This critical position demands a subject matter expert with comprehensive knowledge across all aspects of the company’s extensive family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The successful candidate will demonstrate profound expertise in UAS aircraft hardware and software, ground control station (GCS) hardware and software, and the intricacies of operational and experimental ground and flight testing for the entire product line.
The incumbent will play a pivotal role in ensuring the rigorous standardization of company aircraft ground and flight operations, procedures, flight test methodologies, and instructional techniques. This position also serves as a primary consultant for executive management, offering invaluable insights and guidance across all phases of aircraft development, flight testing, and operational mission planning and execution. A paramount responsibility involves ensuring the highest levels of safety during all phases of Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) ground and flight operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform duties as an Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot, contributing to cutting-edge UAS development and validation.
- Function as an Instructor Test Pilot and company Flight Examiner, maintaining and elevating the proficiency standards of flight personnel.
- Serve as Pilot-in-Command for company Unmanned Air Vehicles, exhibiting expert operational control and decision-making.
- Develop and meticulously execute all phases of mission planning, comprehensive briefings, flawless mission execution, and thorough debriefings.
- Provide comprehensive academic and in-flight instruction to UAV student pilots and instructor pilots-in-training, fostering exceptional operational competence.
- Ensure stringent compliance with all relevant governing regulations, including service guidance, company procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations.
- Actively consult with company engineering and senior management as a leading subject matter expert, guiding the strategic development of the company's aircraft product line.
- Develop and rigorously verify operational procedures for the effective integration and utilization of new aircraft features.
- Contribute significantly to the development of training syllabus courseware, encompassing detailed research, precise word processing, and impactful presentation development.
- Uphold an exemplary commitment to a productive and safe working environment, in strict adherence to established operating procedures and best practices.
- Ensure unwavering observance of all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies in all business conducted on behalf of the Company.
Required Qualifications
- A four-year technical degree or equivalent formal training is typically required, complemented by ten (10) or more years of progressive experience in ground and flight test operations. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
- Demonstrated robust aviation background, coupled with a comprehensive understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts relevant to advanced aviation and UAS.
- Exceptional organizational skills, including a proven track record in planning, prioritizing, and coordinating complex work assignments effectively.
- Mandatory specific aviation credentials and experience:
- Current FAA Commercial Certificate with an Instrument Rating.
- Current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
- A minimum of 2000 hours of total logged pilot time.
- A minimum of 1500 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
- A minimum of 500 hours of Cross Country flight time.
- A minimum of 100 hours of Instrument flight time.
- A minimum of 500 hours in turbine aircraft.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with a pronounced emphasis on teamwork, collaborative engagement, and superior verbal and written communication abilities.
- Proven capability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers, fostering productive relationships.
- Proficiency in computer applications and operations pertinent to the role's responsibilities.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain the utmost confidentiality of sensitive information.
Highly Desired Qualifications
- Previous leadership experience in an aviation, aerospace, or technical operational environment.
- Prior operational experience with Predator or other Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs), military aviator roles, or extensive military aviation background.
- Possession of an FAA Instructor Rating (CFI) and Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII) in manned aircraft.
- Graduate of a recognized and accredited Test Pilot School.
Additional Information
- Salary Range: $140,940 – $252,293
- Travel Percentage Required: 0 – 25%
- Relocation Assistance: Provided
- US Citizenship: Required
- Clearance Required: Yes (Senior Level - 8+ years)
- Workstyle: Onsite