General Atomics | Test Pilot

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Pilot

About General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft systems, tactical reconnaissance radars, and advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

Position Overview

The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Pilot serves as a critical subject matter expert for all facets of the company's UAS product line. This role encompasses experimental test and evaluation piloting, instructor test piloting, and flight examination duties. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring the standardization of all UAS ground and flight operations, procedures, and instructional techniques. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of UAS hardware and software, ground control station systems, and the operational and experimental testing of the company's aircraft. The UAS Test Pilot will provide primary consultation to executive management on product development, flight testing, and operational mission planning and execution. Paramount to this role is the safe operation of all Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs) throughout all phases of ground and flight operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform duties as an Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot.
• Function as an Instructor Test Pilot and company Flight Examiner.
• Act as Pilot-in-Command for Company Unmanned Air Vehicles.
• Develop and execute comprehensive mission planning, briefing, execution, and debriefing processes.
• Instruct student UAS pilots and instructor pilots-in-training in all aspects of UAS ground and flight operations, providing both academic instruction and in-flight guidance.
• Ensure strict adherence to all governing regulations, including service guidance, company procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Regulations.
• Uphold all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies in all business conduct.
• Maintain a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Consult directly with engineering teams and senior management as a subject matter expert in the development of the company's UAS product line.
• Develop and verify operational procedures for new aircraft features.
• Create training syllabus courseware, including research, word processing, and presentation development.
• Undertake other duties as assigned or required to support departmental and company objectives.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a four-year technical degree or equivalent formal training, complemented by ten or more years of progressive experience in ground and flight test operations. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted for formal education.
• A robust aviation background demonstrating a complete understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts is mandatory.
• Excellent organizational skills, including proficiency in planning and coordinating work assignments.
• Required Certifications and Experience:
  • Valid FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with a current instrument rating.
  • Current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
  • Minimum of 2,000 logged flight hours, including:
    • 1,500 hours Pilot in Command (PIC).
    • 500 hours Cross Country.
    • 100 hours Instrument.
    • 500 hours in turbine aircraft.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with a pronounced emphasis on teamwork and effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to interface effectively with personnel at all organizational levels, as well as with military and civilian customers.
• Proficiency in computer applications and operations pertinent to the role.
• Capacity to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Security Clearance is a requirement.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

• Previous leadership experience.
• Prior experience with Predator, other UAV platforms, or military aviation.
• FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Certified Instrument Flight Instructor (CFII) ratings in manned aircraft.
• Graduation from a recognized Test Pilot School.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary Range: $140,940 - $252,293

Travel Percentage: 0% - 25%

Relocation Assistance: Provided

US Citizenship Required: Yes

Clearance Required: Desired

Clearance Level: Senior (8+ years)

Workstyle: Onsite

Equal Opportunity Employer

General Atomics is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. Compensation discrimination is prohibited under all applicable laws.

Note: U.S. Citizenship is required for certain positions.