Test Pilot (Contract)

Grid Aero • Merced, CA

3d • $80 - $120 • Hybrid

About The Position

Grid Aero is seeking an Experimental Test Pilot (Contract) to execute the flight testing of our large, fixed-wing autonomous aircraft. You will operate cutting-edge systems from the ground control station, help shape test plans, and execute developmental and envelope-expansion flights that push the frontier of autonomous aviation. Working closely with engineering, operations, and safety teams, you’ll turn prototypes into proven aircraft, translating flight data into insights that accelerate Grid’s path to certification and deployment. You will champion a “test often, test safely” culture, driving disciplined, high-frequency testing that balances learning velocity with flight test safety best practices and process.

Requirements

• FAA Commercial Pilot (AMEL) with 1,500+ total fixed-wing hours, including multi-engine experience.
• Hands-on experience in experimental or developmental flight test programs, including ground testing and test build up.
• Background in large fly-by-wire aircraft testing, including remote piloting of UAS or optionally piloted vehicles.
• Broad flight experience across multiple single- and multi-engine aircraft types.
• Experience authoring or contributing to flight procedures, checklists, and test documentation.
• Bachelor’s degree in STEM
• Willingness to travel regularly to the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Valley of California.
• A mission-driven test pilot who thrives on pushing the edge of what’s possible in large, uncrewed aircraft.
• A disciplined aviator who balances technical precision with safety-first judgment in dynamic test environments.
• A collaborative teammate who communicates clearly across engineering, operations, and program management.
• A self-starter comfortable with the ambiguity and problem-solving pace of prototype development.
• Excited to help shape procedures, test methodologies, and team culture in a fast-moving startup environment.
• A “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.15 is required.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation from a recognized Test Pilot School.
• Experience in a startup aircraft development program.
• Background as an Instructor/Evaluator or mentor to flight test teams

Responsibilities

• Operate Grid’s fixed-wing autonomous aircraft from the ground control station during flight test campaigns.
• Participate in daily brief and debrief sessions.
• Participate in simulation, training, and flight rehearsals to validate aircraft systems and test procedures.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to plan, execute, and document developmental flight testing.
• Contribute to the creation and refinement of flight procedures, test cards, and operational checklists.
• Provide feedback on aircraft handling qualities, human factors, automation behavior, and system performance to guide iterative improvements in the aircraft and interfaces.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior