Production Test Pilot (Full-Time)
Department: Quality
Job Summary
Piper Aircraft is actively seeking an accomplished and highly skilled Production Test Pilot to join its dedicated Quality department. This critical position is responsible for executing essential flight tests, ensuring the airworthiness and certification of aircraft, and upholding the most stringent safety and compliance standards. The Production Test Pilot will play a pivotal role in the final stages of aircraft production, fostering collaboration across various departments, and representing the company during customer aircraft deliveries and regulatory assessments.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and execute comprehensive Out Factory Door (OFD) and Delegation Option Authority (DOA) flight testing protocols.
- Perform critical safety of flight inspections to ensure robust aircraft certification compliance.
- Execute thorough pre-flight, run-up, and in-flight equipment inspections.
- Identify, investigate, and rectify discrepancies to ensure strict adherence to Piper Process Specifications (PPS) and overall airworthiness.
- Contribute to and facilitate pilot standardization efforts across the organization.
- Collaborate effectively with technical representatives, maintenance teams, and cross-functional departments as required.
- Accurately prepare and maintain detailed data sheets and records of all flight test results.
- Demonstrate comprehensive understanding and application of Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) pertaining to aircraft certification.
- Ensure continuous currency and proficiency in all prerequisites necessary for the Test Pilot role.
- Maintain all essential test and survival equipment in optimal and ready condition.
- Conduct offsite aircraft deliveries to customers, including performing acceptance flights.
- Liaise with Sales and Delivery teams to conduct customer acceptance flights at Piper Aircraft facilities.
- Perform assessment check rides with FAA ECB Test Pilots.
- Exercise sound judgment to make safe, independent decisions and take appropriate actions when required.
- Undertake additional duties as assigned to support operational objectives and departmental needs.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Minimum Associate's degree required; Bachelor's degree preferred. Exceptional candidates demonstrating extensive, proven experience as Pilot in Command (PIC) may be considered in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
- A minimum of three to five years of general aviation piloting experience is essential.
- Possession of a current FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Single and Multiengine Land Instrument Ratings.
- Hold a current FAA Class Two Medical Certificate and Biennial Flight Review instrument currency. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be evaluated.
- A minimum of 2000 total pilot hours, including:
- 500 hours of multi-engine time.
- 300 hours in complex aircraft.
- 500 hours in general aviation aircraft comparable to company products.
Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Demonstrated expert knowledge of radio communications and flight test-related safety devices.
- Exceptional ability to communicate clearly and professionally in English with Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) personnel.
- Proven ability to make critical safety decisions and act independently and decisively when required.
- Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail for accurate record-keeping and compliance.
- Ability to interface effectively and collaboratively with diverse technical and operational teams.