Experimental Test Pilot, V-22

As a pioneer in aviation, Bell challenges the boundaries of what is possible, from breaking the sound barrier to developing advanced tiltrotor systems. The company is actively shaping the future of flight through specialized engineering and is seeking dedicated professionals to join this mission. Bell is a key partner in developing the future of Army Aviation with the Bell Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA), part of the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) modernization effort. Additionally, Bell is advancing projects such as the Bell 525 Relentless and Bell’s High-Speed Vertical Take-Off and Landing (HSVTOL) program, a next-generation stop-fold aircraft concept.

This position is located at the Bell facility in Patuxent River, Maryland.

Position Summary

An Experimental Test Pilot at Bell is involved in the planning and execution of engineering and experimental test flights for new aircraft and/or systems. This role requires evaluating and reporting on data gathered during test flights, demonstrating safe and efficient test planning and execution, and effectively collaborating with the project team to ensure successful test program accomplishment. The pilot will also make recommendations regarding the operational effectiveness of systems, aircraft handling qualities, and potential design improvements.

Responsibilities

Key duties of the Experimental Test Pilot include:

Planning and executing engineering and experimental test flights for new aircraft and systems.
Evaluating and reporting on data collected during test flights.
Ensuring safe and efficient test planning and execution processes.
Interfacing with the project team to achieve successful test program outcomes.
Providing recommendations on operational effectiveness, aircraft handling qualities, and design enhancements.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience:

Must be a graduate of an approved flight test school.
Possess a minimum of an FAA commercial rotorcraft helicopter instrument rating.
Minimum of 2000 hours total time in rotary wing aircraft, with not less than 1500 hours as pilot in command.
Hold a current FAA Class I or II medical certificate.
Minimum of 1000 hours of V-22 flight time.
Three years of experience in vertical lift flight test and systems development.
Accumulated 100 hours of engineering or experimental flight test time.
Excellent communication skills and a proven ability to work effectively with flight test and maintenance personnel.
Must be current or able to meet Naval Aviation Water Survival Physiology training requirements.
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally in support of test programs.
Ability to obtain a secret security clearance.

Benefits

Bell offers a competitive benefits package, including:

9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.
80 hours of Personal Time Off (PTO).
120 hours of Vacation time.
12-13 paid holidays per year.
6 weeks of parental leave.
Tuition reimbursement.
Comprehensive health insurance.
Access to over 11 Employee Resource Groups.
Additional benefits and programs.

Bell is on a journey to amplify innovation, cultivate purpose, and bridge experiences by fostering a culture driven by unique perspectives, voices, and values. Candidates are invited to make their mark on the future of aviation and join Bell in making history.

Textron’s compensation package includes competitive base pay and provides eligible employees with benefit programs. Benefits may include health insurance and prescription plan coverage, dental insurance, family building benefits, vision insurance, mental health resources, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and programs that provide employees time away from work. The pay range provided serves as a general guide only; compensation is determined based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

In compliance with local pay transparency law, the pay range for this position is $132,600 – $246,200 per year.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Textron 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.

ITAR/EAR Requirements

This position requires the use of information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Non-U.S. persons selected for this role must meet eligibility requirements for access to export-restricted information. The ITAR/EAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e., 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.

Job Details

Recruiting Company: Bell Textron Inc.
Primary Location: US-Maryland-Patuxent River
Job Function: Flight Operations
Schedule: Full-time
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Job Type: Experienced
Shift: First Shift
Relocation: Unavailable
Job Posting: 07/08/2025, 8:49:24 PM
Job Number: 334523

Textron Aviation | Pilot