Principal Test Pilot
Location: California Proving Grounds - California City, CA
Supernal, a pioneering Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company, seeks a highly skilled and experienced Principal Test Pilot to join their Flight Test team. This individual will play a crucial role in the development and certification of their electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle and supporting ecosystem. Supernal is dedicated to creating a safe, sustainable, and integrated mobility solution. This role requires on-site presence 5 days per week.
Role and Responsibilities:
The Principal Test Pilot will be responsible for the safe and efficient piloting of Supernal air vehicles, focusing on gathering accurate and reliable data for engineering teams. Duties include conducting experimental flight tests, developing and maintaining flight manuals, checklists, and operational procedures. This individual will collaborate with flight test engineers to create detailed test plans based on engineering requirements. The Principal Test Pilot will actively participate in safety reviews and ensure all operations adhere to company and FAA regulations. This role will also contribute to the development, certification, and demonstration of eVTOL test and evaluation. The position requires up to 50% domestic and international travel.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct experimental flight tests in an eVTOL aircraft.
- Collaborate with flight test engineers to develop test plans, procedures, and cards.
- Create and maintain flight manuals, operational checklists, and procedures.
- Lead and participate in safety of flight and flight readiness reviews.
- Complete all necessary documentation following company and FAA procedures.
- Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple aircraft types.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or related field required; Master’s degree in flight test engineering or related field preferred.
- Minimum of ten (10) years of experience in engineering.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience as an Experimental Test Pilot (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered).
- Graduate of a recognized Test Pilot School or equivalent level of experience as a Test Pilot.
- FAA Class II Medical certification.
- Commercial pilot license.
- 1000+ hours of pilot-in-command (PIC) experience in VTOL aircraft.
- Demonstrated experience with Risk Management, including hazard identification and risk assessment preparation.
- Experience with Uninhabited Aerial System (UAS) certification and testing.
- Familiarity with standard flight test processes and procedures.
- Knowledge of the FAA civil certification process.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated proactive communication and follow-up skills.
- Superior organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to independently prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel VLOOKUP, pivot tables, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with flight testing Uninhabited Aerial Systems (UAS) preferred.
- Experience working with the FAA and familiarity with aircraft, helicopter, or powered lift FAA certification programs preferred.
- Experience flight testing rotorcraft aircraft preferred.
- Experience with flight testing eVTOL aircraft preferred.
- Experience flying tilt-rotor aircraft preferred.
- Experience operating light transport helicopters and/or aircraft preferred.
- Experience with formation flying with UAS preferred.
- Experience with formation flying, flight training, and media demonstrations preferred.
- Experience developing or optimizing simulators, ground control stations, and training equipment preferred.
- Experience in developing digital flight control systems preferred.
- Experience flight testing rapid prototype aircraft and components preferred.
- Experience working in fast-paced small teams preferred.
- Familiarity with EDW airspace preferred.
Compensation and Benefits:
The base salary for this position ranges from $247,900 to $316,600 USD, dependent on experience, skills, and location. This position is also eligible for a bonus as part of total compensation. Supernal offers a comprehensive benefits package.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Supernal is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected category. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to individuals with disabilities throughout the application process.
Additional Information:
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. This position may require access to technology or software subject to U.S. export control laws. Should a required export authorization be needed, continued employment is contingent on obtaining such authorization and adhering to its terms.
Supernal invites highly qualified individuals to apply and contribute to the advancement of air mobility.