Head of Lab and Flight Test

JetZero•Long Beach, CA

About The Position

Today’s aircraft contribute around 4% of global CO2 emissions, equivalent to the emissions of 200 million cars. This is only going to increase: Air travel is forecasted to double by 2050, while meaningful efficiency gains using current airplanes have hit a wall. JetZero is developing a blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft. It uses up to 50% less fuel and will be built to accommodate zero-emission hydrogen propulsion. JetZero is the inevitable solution to sustainable air travel. We are experienced aerospace professionals and engineers, excited about the future. That future will only be possible if we share our vision and what it means to people’s lives: carbon-free flight that' is better for both passengers and airlines around the world. JetZero is seeking a Head of Lab and Flight Test to oversee all system test lab and vehicle ground/flight test activities required for the various JetZero development programs. This role requires deep expertise in system test lab design and operation, aircraft test methods, safety culture, as well as strong leadership skills. The Head of Lab and Flight Test acts as the overall authority for the design, build and operation of the JetZero system test labs as well as developing and overseeing the flight test teams for both subscale and full-scale test aircraft. This role will ensure that all lab and aircraft test activities are conducted in a safe and efficient manner and in accordance with applicable regulations and follow relevant company policies and procedures. This role will also be responsible for establishing a test center, for both lab and aircraft testing, to support a commercial jetliner development and certification program under a one team mindset.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related field
15+ years of experience in experimental or developmental lab and flight test engineering supporting aircraft development and certification
Demonstrated experience leading lab and/or flight test programs
Extensive knowledge of test lab configurations, capabilities and operations as applied to support aircraft development programs
Strong understanding of aircraft systems, flight test techniques, and operations
Strong understanding of FAR Part 25 flight test and associated FAA flight test procedures
Excellent technical judgment and decision-making skills in dynamic test environments
Strong leadership, communication, and coordination skills
Able to travel to remote test sites as required

Nice To Haves

Experience with fly-by-wire systems and novel aircraft configurations
Experience with non-certified prototype aircraft development and test
Graduate of a SETP or SFTE Recognized Test Pilot School, or equivalent operational background

Responsibilities

Lead a team of engineers in the design, build, and operation of the system test labs, including a flying qualities simulator, system integration lab and hydro-mechanical integration lab, supporting the design and development of the full-scale demonstrator aircraft as well as the Z4 commercial jetliner
Lead the test team responsible for ground and flight testing of all Pathfinder sub-scale test aircraft
Lead the test team responsible for ground and flight testing of the full-scale demonstrator aircraft
Establish the infrastructure to support the Demonstrator full scale aircraft flight test program
Lead the development of testing strategies to support safe, efficient and effective testing
Establish a Test Center to support the development and certification testing of the Z4 jetliner including both lab and aircraft test activities
Define Statements of Work for each major project and ensure team execution in line with the cost and schedule targets for each project
Ensure compliance with industry and regulatory standards and safety regulations by establishing formal guidelines and procedures for the execution of lab test and aircraft ground and flight test activities
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize test requirements and support execution of the test methods (lab and vehicle) in order to achieve the objectives of each project
Identify and mitigate technical and safety risks throughout the development lifecycle
Build, lead, inspire, and continue to develop a diverse team aligned around shared goals and in line with the JetZero company values