The Society of Experimental Test Pilots | Pilot

About Virgin Galactic

Virgin Galactic is a pioneering aerospace and space travel company, committed to transforming the dream of human spaceflight into a reality for private individuals and researchers. Leveraging advanced SpaceShips and launch vehicles, the company is at the forefront of the commercial space industry, aiming to deliver human spaceflight with unprecedented frequency and an industry-leading cost structure. As rapidly advancing technologies and increasing private investment invigorate the space sector, Virgin Galactic is uniquely positioned to lead the exploration of space and the cultivation of space-related capabilities, unlocking immense potential for economic value, innovation, and life-changing personal experiences.

With a primary focus on human spaceflight for personal exploration and research, Virgin Galactic's differentiated technology and unique capabilities are also being leveraged to address numerous commercial and government opportunities. The company is actively expanding the frontier of human space travel, inviting a broader global population of dreamers and adventurers to become part of a new space age where leaving Earth’s atmosphere is no longer reserved solely for professional astronauts.

The Opportunity: Pilot, Human Spaceflight Operations

Virgin Galactic is actively recruiting highly experienced and exceptional Pilots to support the pivotal development and rigorous flight test programs of its cutting-edge spaceflight vehicles, and subsequently, to operate commercial spaceflights. This unique role offers the chance to be at the forefront of human space travel, based primarily at Spaceport America in New Mexico, with occasional work at other strategic locations.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in the operation of Virgin Galactic’s sub-orbital spaceflight service, serving both Customer-Astronauts and Science-Research Payload customers. This position demands a blend of rigorous test pilot expertise and commercial aviation proficiency, all within the groundbreaking context of pioneering human spaceflight operations and adhering strictly to government regulations and company policies and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute comprehensive flight duties on Virgin Galactic Spaceflight System vehicles and other associated aircraft.
• Conduct meticulous flight planning activities and provide essential mission control support.
• Contribute to the development of critical training assets and detailed vehicle operations documentation.
• Actively participate in the planning, testing, and development of follow-on space vehicles.
• Contribute to recruitment efforts, maintain accurate record-keeping, and fulfill all training obligations.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including safety, engineering, maintenance, commercial, and marketing departments.
• Support customer hospitality initiatives and astronaut training programs, ensuring an unparalleled experience.

Required Skills and Experience

• Graduation from a full (one-year) SETP-recognized test pilot school course, complemented by extensive post-graduate test program experience.
• A diverse and substantial flying background with a minimum of 2,500 hours of flight experience, specifically including:
  • Proficiency in multi-engine aircraft with asymmetric thrust performance and handling considerations.
  • Experience in high-performance fast jet aircraft.
  • Demonstrated low lift-to-drag ratio glide experience (e.g., simulated flameout landings) in complex aircraft.
• Possession of a current FAA Class 1 or military medical certificate.
• A degree-level qualification in a relevant technical field.
• A proven track record as a successful and collaborative team member.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Willingness and ability to be based permanently at Spaceport America in New Mexico.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• A minimum of 2.5 years of post-graduate flight test experience from a test pilot school.
• Operational experience within a commercial aerospace aviation project or business environment.
• Excellent and current knowledge across a diverse range of aerospace matters.
• Possession of a current FAA Commercial (or equivalent) pilot license.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex aviation knowledge and safety-related information simply, succinctly, and clearly.
• Previous responsibility for authorizing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.
• Prior experience in spaceflight operations.
• Experience in commercial flight operations involving direct customer interaction.

Exceptional candidates who may not meet all preferred criteria may still be considered.

Compensation and Benefits

The annual U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $260,000.00 – $278,750.00. The final base pay offered will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, location, and experience, while also considering internal equity. The comprehensive compensation package may include other forms of pay, such as bonuses or long-term incentives, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the specific position. Further details regarding Virgin Galactic benefits are available on the company's careers website.

Export Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be a U.S. Person (defined as a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or possess the ability to obtain required authorization from either the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. Additionally, applicants must not be listed on the Specifically Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Control.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Virgin Galactic is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications, without influence from race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.

Drug-Free Workplace

Virgin Galactic is committed to maintaining a Drug-Free Workplace. All applicants post-offer and active teammates are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when specified criteria are met, as outlined in company policies. This includes pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and accident-related drug and alcohol testing.

Phoenix Employment Requirements

For individuals seeking employment at Virgin Galactic's Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport facility, employment is contingent upon obtaining and maintaining a TSA authorized security badge. This involves initial and annual mandatory background checks governed by TSA and conducted by the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport badging office.