Experimental Test Pilot
Location:
North Kingstown, RI
Department:
Flight Test Engineering
Employment Type:
Full Time, On-Site
Company Overview
Merlin is a venture-backed aerospace startup developing non-human pilot technology to enable reduced-crew and uncrewed flight operations. The company is scaling its operations to address critical challenges in aviation through advanced autonomy.
Position Summary
Merlin is seeking a self-motivated Experimental Test Pilot to join the Flight Test team. The successful candidate will lead capability testing on test aircraft, collaborating with engineering teams to support the development of autonomy systems. This role involves executing flight tests, driving test processes, and ensuring data collection efficiency through rigorous flight test planning and analysis.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead capability testing on test aircraft to support the development of autonomy systems through frequent flight operations.
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Serve as a lead project pilot to develop and implement processes required for the preparation, execution, and analysis of flight tests.
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Collaborate with hardware, software, flight controls, integration, and flight operations teams to create test plans and ensure test readiness.
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Execute onsite flight tests, including the development and approval of test cards, simulation verification of procedures and software, and the generation of comprehensive flight test and deficiency reports.
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Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.
Requirements
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Minimum of 5 years of direct experience with experimental flight tests or a combination of equivalent formal training and experience.
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Graduate of a recognized test pilot school or program.
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Fundamental knowledge of fixed-wing aircraft flight dynamics and control.
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Strong commitment to program success and willingness to perform necessary tasks to meet objectives.
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Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, complemented by strong organizational abilities.
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Must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience using software development environments and tools, including Linux, git, and Jira.
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Experience with flight controls product development, including system-level testing and troubleshooting, as well as software component-level testing.
Benefits and Equal Opportunity
Merlin offers an innovative, entrepreneurial, and team-focused environment, including a comprehensive benefits package featuring health, dental, life, unlimited vacation, and a 401k plan with match. Merlin is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic. All job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of background and reference checks. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available.