Experimental Test Pilot (Rotorcraft/Tiltrotor) - Bell 525 Program
About Bell Textron Inc.
Bell is a recognized pioneer in aviation, consistently challenging the boundaries of what is possible. From breaking the sound barrier to developing advanced tiltrotor systems, the company is actively shaping the future of aviation through specialized engineering. Bell is at the forefront of defense and commercial innovation, developing the future of Army Aviation with the Bell Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) as part of the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) modernization effort. Additionally, Bell continues to advance its commercial offerings with the Bell 525 Relentless and leads next-generation design with its High-Speed Vertical Take-Off and Landing (HSVTOL) program. Bell invites highly qualified professionals to join its mission-driven team.
Position Summary
Bell Textron Inc. is seeking an accomplished and dedicated Experimental Test Pilot for its cutting-edge Bell 525 program. This critical, on-site role is based in Fort Worth, Texas, and requires a professional committed to advancing aviation technology. The Experimental Test Pilot will be responsible for the meticulous planning, precise execution, and comprehensive reporting of experimental flight tests for advanced rotorcraft, with potential involvement in tiltrotor aircraft programs. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the acquisition, in-depth analysis, and official reporting of flight test data, ensuring rigorous compliance with applicable civil, commercial, and military airworthiness standards.
Key Responsibilities
The Experimental Test Pilot will:
- Plan, execute, and deliver detailed reports on engineering and experimental test flights for new aircraft and/or integrated systems.
- Develop and implement safe, effective, and highly efficient test planning and execution strategies, consistently applying Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles in coordination with flight crews, telemetry engineers, Air Traffic Control (ATC), and chase aircraft.
- Provide critical input and expertise to the Flight Test Risk Management process, strictly adhering to Bell Textron directives and FAA Order 4040.26.
- Operate as a positive and constructive member of both the test pilot team and assigned project teams, fostering unity of effort to ensure the successful accomplishment of all flight test program objectives.
- Offer expert direction and provide insightful recommendations concerning the design, operational limitations, and procedural aspects of developing aircraft, with a focus on enhancing operational effectiveness. The incumbent will effectively relate these inputs to established airworthiness standards, customer specifications, and core flight test principles.
- Serve as a consultant to senior management and act as an authoritative external spokesperson for Bell Textron Inc. on major programs and strategic initiatives.
- Perform additional tasks and assume varying responsibilities as appropriate to support Bell Textron’s strategic business objectives.
- Undertake domestic and international travel, as required, in support of flight test activities and flight operations (up to 25%).
Required Qualifications
Candidates must possess the following qualifications:
- Graduation from a Society of Experimental Test Pilots (SETP) recognized test pilot school.
- A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution. A Master's Degree is preferred.
- A minimum of an FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Helicopter Instrument Ratings and a current FAA Class I or II medical certificate.
- At least 2000 hours of total time in rotary-wing aircraft, with not less than 1000 hours as pilot in command.
- Three years of experience in vertical lift flight test and systems development, including demonstrated experience with helicopter/tiltrotor system integration, systems testing, and human-machine interface assessments.
- A minimum of 100 hours of developmental, engineering, or experimental flight test time.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or a permanent legal resident due to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR) requirements.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with design engineers, flight test crews, and maintenance personnel.
- The requisite technical writing skills to author and revise comprehensive flight test plans and reports in the English language, ensuring they meet specific program objectives.
- High levels of proficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint, with the ability to rapidly adapt to various software applications utilized for data management and/or data analysis.
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally in support of test programs (up to 25%).
Preferred Qualifications
- FAA Flight Test Designated Engineering Representative (DER) or Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) Unit Member experience.
- Recent FAA certification experience and/or training, which may include identification of certification requirements, developing certification test plans/reports, participating in certification test and evaluations, or presenting/analyzing data against airworthiness regulations and established methods of compliance.
- Experience with Aircraft Production Testing.
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Certificate.
- FAA Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI).
- Significant tiltrotor experience.
Comprehensive Benefits
Bell Textron Inc. is committed to investing in its employees and offers a competitive total rewards package designed to support a healthy work-life balance and professional growth. Benefits include:
- A 9/80 work schedule, providing employees 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 programs.
- A competitive salary structure.
- Comprehensive health insurance benefits.
- Access to convenient on-site amenities including a clinic, pharmacy, physical therapy services, and a licensed counselor.
- Access to more than 11 Employee Resource Groups, fostering an inclusive and supportive community.
Our Commitment
Bell is on a journey to amplify innovation, cultivate purpose, and bridge experiences by fostering a culture that is driven by unique perspectives, voices, and values. Join us on this mission to make history together.
Equal Opportunity and Export Compliance
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.
This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Non-U.S. persons selected 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-Texas-Arlington
- Job Function: Flight Operations
- Schedule: Full-time
- Job Level: Individual Contributor
- Job Type: Experienced
- Shift: First Shift
- Relocation: Available
- Job Posting: 09/08/2025, 8:29:54 PM
- Job Number: 335928