General Atomics | Test Pilot

Job Title: Test Pilot

Location: Palmdale, California

Job ID: 54809BR

Overview

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft, tactical reconnaissance radars, and advanced high-resolution surveillance systems. The organization is currently seeking a highly skilled Test Pilot to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for its family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).

Position Summary

The Test Pilot will function as a Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and/or Flight Examiner. This role involves comprehensive oversight of aircraft hardware and software, ground control station operations, and the execution of experimental ground and flight testing. The incumbent acts as a primary consultant to executive management regarding aircraft development, flight test strategies, and mission planning, while maintaining ultimate responsibility for the safe operation of UAVs across all flight phases.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as an Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and Company Flight Examiner.
• Perform duties as Pilot-in-Command of company Unmanned Air Vehicles.
• Develop and execute mission planning, briefings, mission execution, and debriefings.
• Instruct student pilots and instructor pilots-in-training in ground and flight operations, including platform instruction and in-flight training.
• Ensure strict compliance with service guidance, company procedures, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
• Maintain a productive and safe working environment.
• Collaborate with engineering teams and senior management to develop aircraft product lines and verify procedures for new aircraft features.
• Develop training syllabus courseware, including research and presentation development.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Education/Experience: Equivalent to a four-year technical degree and 10+ years of progressive experience in ground and flight test operations. Professional aviation experience may be substituted for educational requirements.
• Certifications: FAA Commercial Certificate with a current instrument rating and a current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
• Flight Hours: Minimum of 2,000 total logged pilot hours, including 1,500 hours Pilot-in-Command, 500 hours Cross Country, 100 hours Instrument, and 500 hours in turbine aircraft.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong understanding of aviation technical principles, theories, and concepts, alongside proficiency in relevant computer applications.
• Skills: Excellent organizational, planning, and interpersonal skills; ability to interface effectively with military and civilian customers.
• Security: U.S. Citizenship is required. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

• Previous experience with Predator or other UAV platforms.
• Military aviation experience.
• FAA instructor rating (CFI and CFII) in manned aircraft.
• Graduate of a recognized Test Pilot School.

Additional Information

Workstyle: Onsite

Travel: 25% – 50%

Compensation: $140,940 – $252,293

Relocation: Assistance provided.

General Atomics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The company recognizes the value of diverse backgrounds and remains committed to hiring and retaining a qualified, inclusive workforce.