Skip to main content
Search jobs

Find the perfect place for you.

Test Pilot

Palmdale, California

Apply Now

Overview

Pilots complete Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions while piloting Remotely Piloted Aircraft in support of our customers. Responsibilities include managing and performing all aspects of flying from planning, briefing, mission execution, debriefing, aircrew resource management and ground and flight safety. Pilots may be the primary interface between the on-site customer and teams back home and will be counted upon to solve problems.

  • Schedule: Full-Time Salary

  • Job Level: Mid-Level (3-7 years)

  • Travel: 0 - 25

Back to Job Navigation (Overview)

Success Profile

What makes a successful Test Pilot at General Atomics? Check out the top traits we’re looking for and see if you have the right mix.

  • Problem Solver
  • Focused
  • Team Player
  • Responsible
  • Adaptable
  • Proactive

Back to Job Navigation (Success)

Date posted 05/03/2024 Job ID 44662BR Company General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Experience Level Mid-Level (3-7 years) Job Title Test Pilot City Palmdale State California Workstyle Onsite Full-Time/Part-Time Full-Time Salary Salary Range $155,040 - $277,530

Job Summary General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.

This position is responsible for serving as Test Pilot, Instructor Test Pilot, and Flight Examiner. Subject matter expert for all aspects of the company's family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems to include aircraft hardware and software, ground control station hardware and software and operational and experimental ground and flight testing of company product line of aircraft. Ensures the standardization of company aircraft ground and flight operations and procedures, flight test and instructional techniques. Primary consultant for executive management in all areas of company product line of aircraft development, flight test and operational mission planning and execution. Responsible for the safe operation of the UAV during all phases of ground and flight operations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform as Experimental Test and Evaluation Pilot.
  • Perform as Instructor Test Pilot and company Flight Examiner.
  • Perform as Pilot-in-Command of Company Unmanned Air Vehicles.
  • Develops and executes mission planning, briefing, mission execution and debriefing.
  • Instruct UAV student pilots as well as instructor pilots-in-training in all aspects of UAV ground and flight operations including academic (platform instruction) and in-flight instruction.
  • Ensures compliance with all governing regulations including service guidance, company procedures and Federal Aviation Administration Regulations.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations and company policies wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to maintain a productive and safe working environment in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
  • Consults directly with company engineering and senior management as subject matter expert in developing company product line of aircraft.
  • Develops and verifies procedures for use with new aircraft features.
  • Develops training syllabus courseware to include research, word processing and presentation development.
  • Other duties as assigned or required.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications:
  • Typically requires education or formal training equivalent to a four-year technical degree and six or more years progressively complex aviation experience. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must have a strong aviation background and demonstrate a complete understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Must have excellent organization skills including planning and coordinating work assignments.
  • Must possess:
    • FAA Commercial Certificate with a current instrument rating.
    • Strong interpersonal skills with emphasis on teamwork and verbal and written communication.
    • Ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers.
    • Strong knowledge of computer applications and operations pertinent to the position.
    • Ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security clearance is required.
  • Highly Desirable:
    • Previous experience including Predator, UAV and/or Military aviator or military aviation.
    • FAA instructor rating (CFI) and (CFII) in manned aircraft.
    • Test pilot school graduate.

Salary:$155,040 - $277,530
Travel Percentage Required 0 - 25 Relocation Assistance Provided Not Provided US Citizenship Required? Yes Clearance Required? Yes Clearance Level Secret
Apply Now

Benefits

  • Healthcare

  • Pension, 401(k)/Retirement Plans

  • Competitive Pay

  • Multiple product lines means a variety of work

  • Paid Time Off

Back to Job Navigation (Rewards)

"I chose General Atomics because I wanted to apply my knowledge of aviation to help protect our nation in the air. The culture and atmosphere are like no company I have ever worked for. I enjoy coming to work every day."
– Mike, Airframe & Powerplant Specialist

Back to Job Navigation (Quote)

>

Sign up for job alerts

Get General Atomics job alerts delivered right to your inbox.

Sign Up

Join our talent community

Be among the first to get the latest career news, hiring events and other information helpful to your professional goals.

Sign Up