Test Pilot
Job Location: Marina, CA, USA
Category: Flight Test
Employment Type: Regular Full-Time
About Joby Aviation
Joby Aviation is dedicated to making the dream of piloted air taxis a reality. Since 2009, the team has diligently designed and tested multiple generations of prototype aircraft capable of serving in a network of electric air taxis. These innovative aircraft are designed for vertical takeoff, silently carrying passengers over congested urban areas, thereby enabling individuals to maximize their time with important people and places. Joby Aviation is actively seeking talented and committed individuals to join its team as the company progresses towards certifying the Joby aircraft, scaling manufacturing operations, and launching its initial commercial service.
Position Overview
Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Test Pilot to join its dynamic flight test team. This critical role demands a comprehensive range of knowledge and skill, encompassing the planning and flight testing of experimental CTOL/VTOL (Conventional Take-Off and Landing/Vertical Take-Off and Landing) fly-by-wire aircraft. The Test Pilot will also be instrumental in supporting all certification flight test related activities. Formal test pilot training and/or extensive experience is essential for this position. The successful candidate must demonstrate flexibility in adapting core flight test principles to the radically new environment of advanced air mobility. Qualification as a VSTOL (Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing) pilot, a Designated Engineering Representative (DER), or an Authorized Representative (AR) is highly desired.
Key Responsibilities
- Performs comprehensive flight test activities, including detailed test planning, test execution as a pilot (both remote Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and inhabited flight test), serving as a chase pilot, conducting thorough flight debriefs, and executing post-flight analysis and reporting.
- Conducts simulator testing, contributing to simulator development, Failure Modes and Effects Testing (FMEA), and other essential simulation purposes.
- Contributes actively to flight readiness reviews, test safety reviews, and other critical flight test administrative activities.
- Executes flight test engineering duties, including the preparation of test cards, providing test direction, and managing other responsibilities within the control room environment.
- Performs miscellaneous engineering duties as assigned.
- Completes all required documentation meticulously, adhering to established company and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) procedures.
- Observes all applicable laws, regulations, and other obligations rigorously, wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of Joby Aviation.
- Maintains a strong commitment to safety, consistently working in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
- Undertakes other duties as assigned or required to support the flight test program.
Required Qualifications
- Possession of a long course graduate certificate from a recognized test pilot school, or, exceptionally, documented equivalent on-the-job training.
- A minimum of three (3) years of additional flight test experience following formal training, including at least 50 hours of experimental or certification flight test experience serving as a test pilot.
- A Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent experience and training.
- Holds a Fixed Wing and/or Rotorcraft Commercial Certificate.
- A minimum of 1,000 hours of pilot in command (PIC) flight time.
- Demonstrates excellent interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to work extended hours and travel as required to support operational needs.
- Proficiently reads and speaks English.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience in both fixed-wing and rotary-wing flight testing, with principal experience in fixed-wing operations.
- Prior experience with AV-8 or F-35B aircraft and/or V-22 aircraft.
- Experience with FAA certification flight test processes.
- Previous flight instructional experience.
- Experience as an instructor at a test pilot school.
- Experience with all-electric aircraft, particularly eVTOL platforms.
- Designated Engineering Representative (DER) or Authorized Representative (AR) qualification for flight test.
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation at Joby Aviation comprises a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position ranges from $175,648 to $254,805. The specific compensation package offered will be determined by the candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Joby Aviation provides a comprehensive benefits package, which includes paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and other valuable benefits.
Additional Information
Joby Aviation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.