General Atomics | Test Pilot

Job Title: Test Pilot

Job ID: 54810BR
Location: Palmdale, California
Employment Type: Full-Time, Onsite

Overview

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is seeking a highly skilled Test Pilot to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for its portfolio of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The selected candidate will provide critical expertise in aircraft hardware, software, and ground control stations, while ensuring the highest standards of safety and procedural integrity during experimental and operational flight testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform duties as an Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and Company Flight Examiner.
• Serve as Pilot-in-Command for company Unmanned Air Vehicles during all phases of ground and flight operations.
• Develop and execute mission planning, briefings, mission execution, and debriefings.
• Provide academic and in-flight instruction to student pilots and instructor pilots-in-training.
• Consult with executive management and engineering teams on product development, mission planning, and tactical execution.
• Develop and verify operating procedures for new aircraft features and create comprehensive training syllabus courseware.
• Ensure strict compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, service guidance, and company policies.

Required Qualifications

• Education/Experience: Formal training equivalent to a four-year technical degree and 10+ years of progressive experience in ground and flight test operations. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted for education.
• Certifications: FAA Commercial Certificate with current instrument rating and current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
• Flight Requirements: Minimum of 2000 hours logged total pilot time, including:
  • 1500 hours Pilot in Command
  • 500 hours Cross Country
  • 100 hours Instrument
  • 500 hours in turbine aircraft
• Technical Proficiency: Strong understanding of aviation technical principles and proficiency in computer applications relevant to the role.
• Clearance: Must possess or have the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Soft Skills: Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills with the ability to interface effectively with military and civilian customers.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

• Previous experience with Predator, UAVs, or military aviation.
• FAA instructor rating (CFI and CFII) in manned aircraft.
• Graduate of an accredited Test Pilot School.

Additional Information

• Travel: 25% – 50%
• Compensation: $140,940 – $252,293 per annum.
• Relocation: Assistance provided.

General Atomics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.