Rotorcraft Flight Test Pilot
Location: Salem, Oregon
About Garmin
Garmin, a global leader in aviation products and services, has transformed flight operations for pilots, aircraft owners, and operators worldwide. The company provides innovative solutions across general aviation, business aviation, rotorcraft, advanced air mobility, government and defense, and commercial air carrier sectors, driven by a commitment to continuous innovation.
Position Overview
Garmin is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced full-time Rotorcraft Flight Test Pilot to join its team in Salem, Oregon. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing simple to moderately complex flight test activities, encompassing the development of comprehensive ground and flight test plans, serving as Pilot in Command (PIC) during flight test execution, operating advanced data collection systems, and meticulously post-processing flight data. This critical role demands a profound understanding of systems under test and a solid grasp of aviation certification processes and regulatory requirements. A minimum of 1,500 rotorcraft (helicopter) flight hours, coupled with a strong engineering background, is essential for this position.
Essential Functions
The Rotorcraft Flight Test Pilot will be expected to perform the following key responsibilities:
- Serve as Pilot in Command for experimental aircraft, overseeing minor design changes and conducting low-risk flight tests.
- May function as Flight Test Project Lead for designated simple projects.
- Develop comprehensive ground and flight test plans and reports for both simple and moderately complex test programs, often building upon established methodologies.
- Apply a deep understanding of the operational characteristics of systems under development/test to contribute effectively to system design.
- Maintain a fundamental understanding of test aircraft configurations and collaborate closely with engineering teams.
- Operate advanced data collection systems and efficiently post-process flight test data.
- Address and troubleshoot issues related to test aircraft and installations, coordinating essential maintenance activities.
- Contribute substantial content and conduct thorough reviews of flight manuals and technical publications intended for pilot use.
- Identify discrepancies during flight test operations and ensure timely resolution of all identified issues.
- Apply a foundational understanding of the certification process and relevant regulations during the review of certification plans for basic certification projects.
- Propose improvements to existing processes and champion safety initiatives within the flight test organization.
- Deliver reliable solutions to diverse problems through sound problem-solving techniques, demonstrating urgency, commitment, and a focus on critical priorities for timely resolution.
Required Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following minimum qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Computer Engineering, combined with a minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated academic excellence with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Valid Commercial Pilot Certificate with a Rotorcraft endorsement.
- Current 2nd Class FAA Medical Certificate.
- Minimum of 1,500 total rotorcraft flight hours.
- A basic understanding of aviation certification processes and associated regulations.
- Exceptional verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Proven capability to perform moderately complex troubleshooting and debugging.
Desired Qualifications
The ideal candidate may also possess the following:
- Familiarity with aerodynamic or aeronautical principles pertaining to aircraft system design.
- Proficiency in Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles.
- Basic understanding of system safety analysis methodologies.
- Prior experience in systems engineering or software development.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Garmin International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age, or disability. This position is eligible for Garmin’s comprehensive benefits program.