Production Test Pilot
A leading aviation manufacturer is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Production Test Pilot to join its Quality department. This pivotal full-time role involves conducting critical flight tests and inspections to ensure aircraft airworthiness and compliance with rigorous certification standards. The Production Test Pilot plays a vital role in the final quality assurance process, contributing directly to the safety and reliability of newly manufactured aircraft.
Key Responsibilities
The Production Test Pilot's responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Conducting comprehensive Out Factory Door (OFD) and Delegation Option Authority (DOA) flight tests.
- Performing safety of flight inspections essential for aircraft certification.
- Executing thorough pre-flight, run-up, and in-flight equipment inspections.
- Rigorously checking and testing aircraft discrepancies to ensure compliance with Piper Process Specifications (PPS) and overall airworthiness.
- Contributing to pilot standardization efforts.
- Effectively interfacing with technical representatives, maintenance personnel, and other internal departments as required.
- Preparing detailed data sheets and other necessary forms to meticulously record flight test results.
- Demonstrating an in-depth understanding of Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) requirements for aircraft certification.
- Maintaining continuous currency and proficiency in all prerequisites necessary for the role of a test pilot.
- Ensuring proper maintenance of all test and survival equipment.
- Executing offsite aircraft deliveries to customers, including conducting customer acceptance flights.
- Collaborating closely with Sales and Delivery teams to facilitate customer acceptance flights at the manufacturing facility.
- Conducting assessment check rides with FAA ECB Test Pilots.
- Exhibiting the ability to make sound, safe decisions and take decisive, independent actions when necessary.
- Performing other related duties as assigned to support operational needs.
Required Qualifications
To successfully perform the duties of this position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:
- Education: An Associate's degree is required, with a Bachelor's degree preferred. Consideration will be given to candidates demonstrating proven time and experience as a Pilot in Command (PIC) in aircraft operations, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Flight Experience:
- A minimum of three to five years of experience as a general aviation pilot.
- A total pilot time of at least 2000 hours.
- A minimum of 500 hours of multiengine aircraft time.
- At least 300 hours in complex aircraft.
- A minimum of 500 hours in general aviation aircraft comparable to company products.
- Certifications & Ratings:
- Possession of a valid FAA Pilot Certificate with Commercial, Single and Multiengine Land, and Instrument ratings.
- A current FAA Class Two Medical Certificate.
- Current Biennial Flight Review and Instrument Currency.
- Knowledge & Skills:
- Comprehensive knowledge of radio communications and safety devices pertinent to flight test operations.
- Exceptional ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English with Air Traffic Control Towers (ATCT).
- Demonstrated ability to make safe and independent decisions under varying operational conditions.