Airship Pilot
Location: Sunnyvale, California
LTA Research and Exploration is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Airship Pilot to join its Flight Operations team. This is a full-time, on-site position focused on developing and test flying the company's latest airship, as well as assisting with flight training in an ABC Lightship - model A60R. The Airship Pilot will collaborate closely with Flight Test Engineers in planning and executing flight test activities, directing staff to ensure airship readiness, and developing flight procedures and training programs. The successful candidate will serve as a key representative of LTA, consistently demonstrating professionalism and adhering to all company policies and federal safety regulations.
Responsibilities:
- Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and flight proficiency in company airships.
- Collaborate with engineers and pilots to plan, rehearse, and execute flight tests in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.
- Participate in briefings and provide detailed documentation of observations from flight testing.
- Ensure regulatory and safety compliance in all operations.
- Contribute to flight training programs and provide instruction, as needed.
- Provide professional input on technical and operational considerations.
- Develop documentation for standardized processes and procedures.
- Work independently with minimal supervision in a dynamic environment.
- Display personal initiative to complete departmental objectives and take ownership of projects.
Qualifications and Skills:
- FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate preferred with Airship Rating; additional airplane or helicopter ratings preferred.
- Current FAA First or Second Class medical certificate.
- Minimum 500 hours of airship experience preferred.
- Thrust Vector Control Airship experience preferred.
- Flight test experience preferred.
- College degree in an aerospace-related field preferred, or equivalent professional development.
- Familiarity with flight training programs and instructional activities.
- In-depth knowledge and experience in airship systems, operations, and regulations.
- Strong aviation safety management, CRM, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to collaborate with engineers on technical subjects preferred.
- Operational mindset with proactive approach to problem-solving.
- Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Proven abilities in multitasking and prioritization in a fast-paced environment.
Compensation and Benefits:
The total compensation range for this role is $150,000 to $250,000 annually, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and location. LTA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Relocation assistance
- Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance (PPO plan with significant premium coverage)
- Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
- Parental leave
- Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
- 401(k) matching up to 6%
- Daily lunch and snacks, with accommodations for dietary restrictions
- Monthly wellness stipend
- Monthly cell phone stipend
- Yearly education stipend for certifications or relevant coursework
- Mental health benefit
- Fun events, company swag, and occasional airship rides
Additional Information:
LTA Research & Exploration welcomes applications from all candidates, including those with limited experience. A growth mindset and passion for advancing aviation technology are highly valued.
Compliance requirements include a criminal background check and drug test clearance, where applicable.
Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.