Experimental Test Pilot – 525

Location: Fort Worth, TX

Bell is a pioneer in aviation, challenging the boundaries of flight—from breaking the sound barrier to developing advanced tiltrotor systems. We are currently shaping the future of Army Aviation through the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) and the Future Vertical Lift (FVL) modernization effort, alongside the Bell 525 Relentless and High-Speed Vertical Take-Off and Landing (HSVTOL) programs. We are seeking an experienced Experimental Test Pilot to join our team in Fort Worth, Texas.

Role Overview

The Experimental Test Pilot will plan, execute, and report on engineering and experimental test flights for helicopters and tiltrotor aircraft. The successful candidate will participate in the acquisition and analysis of flight test data to ensure compliance with civil, commercial, and military airworthiness standards. This role requires collaboration with design engineers, flight test crews, and maintenance personnel to maximize the success of flight test programs.

Key Responsibilities

Develop safe, effective test planning and execution using crew resource management principles.
Provide critical input to the Flight Test Risk Management process in accordance with Bell directives and FAA Order 4040.26.
Provide expert recommendations on aircraft design, limitations, and operational effectiveness.
Author and revise technical flight test plans and reports.
Serve as a consultant to management and an external spokesperson for Bell on major programs.
Perform additional flight operations to maintain currency and support business objectives.
Travel domestically and internationally (25%) to support test operations.

Qualifications

Graduate of an SETP-recognized Test Pilot School.
Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Helicopter Instrument Ratings; current FAA Class I or II medical certificate.
Minimum 2,000 hours total rotary-wing time, with at least 1,000 hours as Pilot in Command (PIC).
Minimum 100 hours of developmental, engineering, or experimental flight test time.
Three years of experience in vertical lift flight test and systems development, including system integration and human-machine interface assessments.
U.S. Citizen or permanent legal resident (required for ITAR/EAR compliance).
Proficiency in MS Office Suite and technical data management software.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Desirable: FAA Flight Test DER or ODA Unit Member experience; FAA ATP Certificate; FAA CFI; experience with Aircraft Production Testing; significant tiltrotor experience.

Benefits and Perks

9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off).
Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance.
120 hours of vacation time and 80 hours of Personal Time Off (PTO).
12-13 paid holidays annually.
6 weeks of parental leave.
Tuition reimbursement.
On-site clinic, pharmacy, physical therapy, and licensed counselor.
Access to 11+ Employee Resource Groups.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Bell Textron Inc. is committed to providing Equal Opportunity in Employment to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, military status, veteran status, disability, sex (including pregnancy and sexual orientation), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.