Sr. Test Pilot

Stratolaunch • Mojave, CA

7h • Onsite

About The Position

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
As a Senior Test Pilot for Stratolaunch’s carrier aircraft, you will have the opportunity to accomplish new milestones in aviation. You will provide comprehensive flight test technical support for experimental and developmental aircraft and payload systems development. You should possess extensive experience in developmental flight test, and sound judgment to plan and accomplish program goals safely and effectively. You must establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues on a small, agile design-to-flight team. Tasks include planning and flying test flights as Pilot in Command (PIC) and Second in Command (SIC); supporting ground tests as Test Conductor, Test Director, or Flight Test Engineer; preparing system test plans and flight test cards; participating in engineering design reviews, simulator evaluations, technical and safety reviews, and flight briefings; drafting flight manual and operational guidance and documenting test results. Ability to perform as control room mission director / designated safety official for part 450 FAA licensed commerical space missions. As a key member of the Flight Operations team, you will have an essential role in meeting all Flight Operations objectives. You will be challenged with bringing a unique and complex aircraft from early development to operational use and proving capabilities for high-speed vehicle launch.

Requirements

• Pilot graduate of a full course test pilot school (SETP-recognized), or possess equivalent experience in developmental flight test programs
• Minimum 1,200 hours total PIC flight time, to include at least 500 hours in turbine aircraft
• Three years of test pilot experience on developmental flight test programs
• FAA Commercial Airplane Multi‐Engine Land pilot certificate, without a centerline thrust restriction.
• FAA Second Class medical certificate
• Bachelor’s Degree in engineering, or similar technical foundation to support aircraft design
• Be independent and motivated; able to self‐direct and manage time effectively
• Be able to work irregular hours and workdays, and travel periodically
• Be knowledgeable of Federal Aviation Regulations for experimental aircraft certification and operations
• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills
• United States Citizenship - ability to acquire/maintain a US security clearance

Nice To Haves

• FAA Airline Transport Rating (ATP), or additional FAA type ratings and experience in multi-engine, non-centerline thrust aircraft
• 747-400 type rating
• Possess FAA high altitude endorsement or equivalent military training
• Recent experience in formation / chase.
• Experience as a test pilot in heavy multi-engine turbine aircraft
• Six years of relevant experience on developmental flight test programs
• Experience with external stores carriage and separation flight tests
• Master’s Degree in engineering or related technical field
• Previous experience with advanced flight controls or autonomous aircraft development
• Previous experience with experimental or modified aircraft, technical and safety review boards, and configuration control
• Familiar with government flight test organizations, ranges, and procedures

Responsibilities

• Serve as PIC/SIC for the experimental transport category carrier aircraft to include the B747-400, as well as other aircraft to be used for chase and training missions.
• Write flight test plans, test cards, flight reports, and final test reports
• Lead and/or participate in system design and design reviews
• Develop test strategies, test plans and test procedures for aircraft and components
• Lead and/or participate in ground and flight test events as test crew member or Test Conductor
• Participate in control room operations as Mission Director or training officer, as required
• Author and/or update Pilot Operating Handbook and related guidance, to include development of normal and emergency procedures
• Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types, to include maintaining instrument currency.
• Must be able to work in a fast paced, high stress environments

Benefits

• 9/80 schedule
• Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
• Tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior