General Atomics | Test Pilot

Job Overview

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is seeking a highly skilled Test Pilot to join the team in Palmdale, California. As a world leader in remotely piloted aircraft, tactical reconnaissance radars, and high-resolution surveillance systems, GA-ASI requires a subject matter expert to serve as a Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and Flight Examiner.

Job ID: 54811BR

Position Summary

The Test Pilot acts as a subject matter expert for the company’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), overseeing aircraft hardware, software, and ground control station operations. The successful candidate will ensure the standardization of flight operations, instructional techniques, and safety protocols while serving as a primary consultant to executive management regarding product development, mission planning, and execution.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as an Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot and Company Flight Examiner.
• Perform as Pilot-in-Command of company Unmanned Air Vehicles, ensuring safe operation during all ground and flight phases.
• Develop and execute comprehensive mission planning, briefings, and debriefings.
• Instruct student pilots and instructor pilots-in-training in both academic and in-flight UAV operations.
• Ensure strict compliance with FAA regulations, service guidance, and company policies.
• Collaborate with engineering teams and senior management to develop new aircraft features and verify operational procedures.
• Develop and maintain training syllabus courseware and instructional materials.

Qualifications

Required Experience and Skills

• Education or formal training equivalent to a four-year technical degree; professional aviation experience may be substituted.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in ground and flight test operations.
• FAA Commercial Certificate with current instrument rating and current FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
• Minimum of 2,000 total pilot hours, including:
  • 1,500 hours Pilot-in-Command
  • 500 hours Cross Country
  • 100 hours Instrument
  • 500 hours in turbine aircraft
• Strong understanding of technical aviation principles, theories, and concepts.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Highly Desirable Qualifications

• Experience with Predator, UAVs, or military aviation.
• FAA Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Instrument Instructor (CFII) ratings in manned aircraft.
• Graduate of a Test Pilot School.

Position Details

• Location: Palmdale, California (Onsite)
• Clearance Required: Yes (Secret)
• Travel: 25% – 50%
• Compensation: $140,940 – $252,293 annually
• Relocation: Assistance provided

Equal Opportunity Employer

General Atomics is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, military/veteran status, or any other legally protected status.