Senior Principal Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Pilot

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems (NGAS) seeks a highly skilled and experienced Senior Principal Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Pilot to join its esteemed Test and Evaluation organization in Palmdale, California. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of military aircraft development through rigorous flight testing.

Responsibilities:

Remotely pilot unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to evaluate aircraft performance, compliance with specifications, and operational suitability during experimental, engineering, ground, and flight test events.
Execute complex flight programs and test events, adhering to prescribed tests and maneuvers.
Conduct thorough pre-flight and post-flight briefings and debriefings, collaborating with maintenance personnel to analyze and resolve vehicle discrepancies.
Provide expert support to engineering teams in developing test plans, procedures, and test cards.
Actively participate in critical project meetings, including Air Vehicle and Mission System Technical Interchange Meetings, Preliminary Design Reviews, Critical Design Reviews, and Flight Readiness Reviews.
Conduct demonstration flights for customers, government officials, and other personnel to showcase vehicle performance, flying qualities, and system capabilities.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant field with 9 years of related experience, Master's degree with 7 years of experience, or PhD with 4 years of experience.
Proven expertise in flight test operations.
Must hold a current FAA commercial Multi & Single Engine instrument rating (or military equivalent) and possess a current FAA Class II Medical certificate or higher.
Minimum 500 hours of flight experience as Pilot in Command with the ability to maintain instrument currency in manned aircraft.
Willingness to work occasional odd shifts, including nights and weekends.
Ability to obtain and maintain Program Access prior to starting employment.
Current active DoD Top Secret Clearance is required.
Must be willing to obtain and maintain necessary medical clearance(s), as defined per the customer's contracting requirements, throughout employment.
Must be willing to obtain and maintain all training qualifications, as needed per the customer's contracting requirements, throughout employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Extensive flight test experience.
Military flight experience is highly desirable.
Previous experience operating UAVs.
Experience as an aviation instructor is also highly desired.

Compensation:

The salary range for this position is $146,300.00 - $219,500.00.

Location:

This position is located on-site in Palmdale, CA. Travel may be required up to 10% of the time.