The Society of Experimental Test Pilots | Test Pilot

About the Role

Robinson Helicopters, a distinguished manufacturer of civil rotorcraft with a five-decade legacy, is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot to join its engineering-focused team in Southern California. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development and certification of widely-used civil helicopters, playing a crucial part in bringing complex rotorcraft from development through to certification within a dynamic flight test environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Pilot in Command (PIC) for development, research, and certification flight tests of experimental rotorcraft.
• Conduct varied and complex flight test projects for rotorcraft, including the creation of flight test plans, test cards, and comprehensive flight reports.
• Lead and/or participate in ground and flight tests as a pilot, test crew member, or Test Conductor.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop robust test strategies, determine optimal test configurations, and plan and execute test programs with a focus on safety, effectiveness, and efficiency.
• Adhere to established department processes and standard operating procedures to ensure high standards of safety, effectiveness, consistency, and efficiency in all flight testing activities.
• Contribute innovative insights to enhance both the product and the organization.
• Participate in multi-disciplinary design reviews and assist in resolving cross-functional technical issues.
• Engage actively in the Flight Test Safety Program, including reviewing flight test plans, participating in test flights, pre- and post-flight briefings, and test readiness reviews.
• Interface with regulatory flight test personnel (e.g., FAA, EASA, TCCA) to manage the flight test aspects of aircraft certification.
• Maintain accurate records and conduct audits to ensure compliance with processes and procedures.
• Maintain flying currency and proficiency across multiple rotorcraft types.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related engineering field or equivalent experience.
• FAA Commercial Helicopter Pilot Certificate.
• FAA Second Class Medical Certificate.
• A minimum of 1,000 flight hours as Helicopter PIC.
• Demonstrated experience with multiple makes and models of rotorcraft.
• Substantial experience in managing risk and safety within an aviation context.
• Strong academic record.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• A team-oriented approach with a positive attitude and ability to collaborate effectively.
• Flexibility to work irregular hours and days, with periodic travel requirements.
• Proven self-starter capable of working independently with strong project management, organizational, and risk management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products and relevant engineering software tools.

Desired Qualifications

• Graduate of a SETP recognized test pilot school long course.
• Experience in development and certification flight test programs.
• Designated Engineering Representative (DER) and/or Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) experience.
• Previous experience as a production test pilot or maintenance pilot.
• Master's degree in engineering.
• Experience in human-to-vehicle interface design, testing, and evaluation.
• FAA Helicopter Instructor Pilot Certificate and associated experience.
• Experience with flight control development.
• Experience managing risk and safety specifically within the flight test environment.