The Society of Experimental Test Pilots | Test Pilot

Garmin is seeking a Senior Flight Test Pilot to join their team in Mesa, Arizona. This role involves providing technical leadership in flight test activities, including planning, execution, and certification, for complex aviation projects utilizing Garmin's advanced aviation products and services.

About the Role

The Senior Flight Test Pilot will act as Pilot in Command for experimental aircraft, conduct complex and moderate-risk tests, and may lead moderately complex flight test projects. Responsibilities include drafting ground and flight test plans for challenging programs, defining operational characteristics of systems under development, and representing the end-user perspective. The role requires a strong understanding of test aircraft configurations, coordination with engineering teams, and analysis of data to support system development and compliance. The incumbent will also troubleshoot test aircraft issues, identify and resolve problems during flight testing, and contribute to the development of new procedures and safety initiatives. Furthermore, the Senior Flight Test Pilot will author certification plans and content for flight manuals, acting as an expert on flight operations aspects of systems and collaborating with certification authorities to resolve issues. Mentoring less experienced flight test pilots is also a key component of this position.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical or Aerospace Engineering.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
• Excellent academic record (cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 3.0).
• Commercial Pilot Certificate.
• Second Class FAA Medical Certificate.
• Minimum 1,500 hours of total flight time.
• Minimum 200 Flight Test Hours.
• Previous flight test experience.
• Proficient use of advanced engineering and flight test tools, including advanced troubleshooting of complex avionics system installations.
• Solid and proficient understanding of the certification process and associated regulations.
• Strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Desired Qualifications

• Previous experience in systems engineering or software development.
• Flight Test Pilot DER or ODA Unit Member Qualification.
• Helicopter pilot qualifications.