Flight Test Pilot
Palo Alto, CA
Flight Testing /
Full-time /
On-site
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly, the first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal vehicles are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been in development, preparing to enter the market for over 10 years. We recently announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, planned for general release and scalable production in January 2024.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of technology investment today. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. We invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
About the job
We are a fast-growing company with a single lofty goal: to bring personal aviation to the general public. Innovating at the leading edge of electric aviation technology, we have developed BlackFly, the world’s first ultralight all-electric fixed-wing VTOL personal aircraft. Join us in ushering in a new age of aviation.
We are seeking someone with a passion for innovation and technology, who possesses experience with mechanical manufacturing and electromechanical design.
Responsibilities
- Develop and lead human flight testing as a company discipline
- Lead and participate in experimental and vehicle qualification flight testing as the pilot in command (PIC) and remote operator
- Collaborate with the engineering and operations teams on the development and evaluation of the aircraft design, controls and operations
- Support the certification of UAV Experimental aircraft, test site registration and NOTAM filing
- Assist with the design and implementation of in-seat and remote operator training programs
- Develop and maintain flight manuals, operations, checklists and procedures
- Support development of customer training programs
- Support test planning, risk assessment and mitigations, Safety Management System (SMS), test planning and reporting
Qualifications
- Training from National Test Pilot School, Navy, USAF Test Pilot School
- Experience operating remotely piloted/controlled aircraft
- 4+ years experience with experimental flight test methods and safety culture
- Demonstrated application of Crew Resource Management principles
- Demonstrated experience with Human Factors Design and Evaluation
- Experience using rigorous scientific methods for testing and troubleshooting
- Comfortable managing and manipulating data and documentation
- Able to write in a clear and concise manner
- Ability to support off-site travel to conduct development and certification flight testing
Bonus Qualifications
- 5+ years years as a pilot and/or test pilot including rotorcraft and fixed wing aircraft
- Demonstrated experience with Human Factors Design and Evaluation
- Experience with Aircraft Certification
- BS in a related engineering field, can be substituted with significant developmental flight test experience for otherwise highly qualified candidates
- Graduate of an SETP recognized test pilot school
- Remote Pilot Part 107
- FAA ATP License & CFII
- FAA Commercial Pilot License and Instrument RatingCurrent FAA Class II Medical
- Advanced Google Sheet or MS Excel skills
Personal Attributes
- Thrive in a fast-moving, stimulating, and collaborative team environment
- Resourceful, curious, never satisfied with the status quo
- Strong work ethic, organized, detail-oriented, and able to multitask
- Always thinking about how to increase efficiency and improve processes
- Proactive about solving problems and suggesting solutions
- Strong Communication and teamwork skills Strong work ethic and detail-oriented
- Love for learning and being challenged
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
