About This Role
Program-defining leadership role establishing and executing the airborne flight test campaign for a clean-sheet turbine business jet from first flight through type certification. The Chief Test Pilot serves as the technical and safety authority for all flight operations, flies as Pilot-in-Command for experimental and certification flight tests, and interfaces directly with FAA representatives on certification.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) for experimental and certification flight tests across the aircraft development program.
- Author and approve test pilot reports, handling qualities evaluations, and performance assessment.
- Lead development and execution of Flight Test Plans (FTPs), Procedures, and Reports (FTRs).
- Establish flight operations policies, procedures, and Safety Management System (SMS).
- Serve as primary interface with FAA and certification authorities for flight test activities.
- Ensure adherence to applicable regulations (14 CFR Parts 21/23/25, Part 91, etc.).
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field.
- Graduate of an accredited Test Pilot School (USAF TPS, USN TPS, NTPS, ETPS, EPNER, or equivalent).
- 15+ years of progressive flight test experience.
- Minimum 3,500 total flight hours including turbine aircraft experience.
- Significant experience conducting experimental or certification flight testing as PIC.
- FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and current First Class Medical (or ability to obtain).