Test Pilot - U-2Lockheed Martin
Aircraft: U-2S DragonladyLocation: Palmdale, CaliforniaType-rated
Total Time0 hrs
PIC Time1,000 hrs
Roster4x10 (4 days on, 3 days off per week)
Salary (range)$156,400-$275,655/yr
About This Role
Lockheed Martin Skunk Works seeks an experienced U-2 Test Pilot to conduct advanced flight testing and validation operations on the U-2S Dragonlady reconnaissance aircraft. This is a highly specialized government role based in Palmdale, California, requiring extensive test flight experience and current Top Secret security clearance. Candidates must be U.S. citizens with a formal test pilot school background, minimum 1,000 hours of first pilot time, and no more than 2 years outside of U-2 qualification. The position offers competitive compensation ($156,400-$275,655 annually), comprehensive benefits, flexible work schedules (4x10 hours), and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge defense systems with a world-class aerospace company.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Conduct flight tests to verify aircraft compliance with specifications and operational suitability
- Operate U-2 test aircraft during engineering flight tests, production acceptance, and flight-test support
- Coordinate flight-operations efforts with engineering teams
- Approve cockpit configurations and ensure safety standards are met
- Perform demonstration flights for customers, government officials, and stakeholders
- Exhibit aircraft performance, flying qualities, and system capabilities
What We Offer
Medical insuranceDental insuranceVision insuranceLife insuranceShort-term disabilityLong-term disability401(k) matchFlexible Spending AccountsEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Education AssistanceParental LeavePaid Time Off (PTO)HolidaysFlexible work schedules (4x10 hour days, 3 days off per week)Relocation assistance (possible)
Requirements
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Active Top Secret/SCI security clearance required to start
- Current FAA Class I or II Medical Certificate
- FAA Commercial Pilot (ME Land, Instrument Airplane) or Airline Transport Pilot certificate
- No greater than 2 years outside of qualification on the U-2S Dragonlady
- 1,000 hours first pilot time (desired)
- Valid U.S. passport
- Willing to travel
- Graduate of formal Test Pilot School (desired)
- Experience in all flight test disciplines (weapons, avionics, flight sciences) (desired)
- Instructor/training experience (desired)
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global aerospace and defense company that uses purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. The Skunk Works division is renowned for developing advanced aircraft and defense systems.