Test Pilot
Palo Alto, CA
/
Full-time (Exempt) /
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 early 2025.
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
- Plan, coordinate, and lead flight test activities as pilot-in-command (PIC) of crewed and uncrewed aircraft
- Prepare and deliver comprehensive flight test plans, flight test team briefings and flight test reports
- Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies
- Test and evaluate aircraft performance, aircraft systems, and human factors including flight control designs and aircraft handling characteristics
- Provide feedback and recommendations on design improvements to engineering teams
- Ensure compliance with all safety and regulatory standards for flight test activities
- Maintain requisite professional pilot qualifications and medical certification
- Participate in aircraft accident investigations and safety audits
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams in support of design reviews, safety reviews, and flight test readiness reviews
- Contribute meaningful content and review to flight manuals and aircraft technical publications intended for aircrew
Qualifications
- FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate
- Capable of obtaining a Second Class FAA Medical Certificate
- 3 years experience with experimental flight test methods
- Demonstrated application of Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles
- Demonstrated ability to develop and lead a strong safety culture
- Knowledge and experience in flight test hazard analysis and risk management
- Familiarity with agile, fast past working environments
- Ability to travel to support off-site flight testing
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal) with emphasis on technical subjects and experience authoring flight test technical and operational documentation
Bonus Qualifications
- 5+ years experience with experimental flight test methods
- Graduate of an SETP recognized test pilot school (i.e. National Test Pilot School (NTPS), US Navy Test Pilot School (USNTPS), USAF Test Pilot School (USAFTPS) or equivalent). Significant developmental flight test experience for otherwise highly qualified candidates will be considered
- BS in a related engineering field
- Rotorcraft and fixed wing pilot certifications
- Experience with electric and eVTOL aircraft
- Experience with high risk envelope expansion test programs for new aircraft designs
- Experience operating remotely piloted/controlled aircraft
- Experience with Human Factors Design and Evaluation
- Experience with Aircraft Certification
- Remote Pilot Part 107 certification
- Instrument pilot certification
- CFI & CFII Certifications
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.
