Test Pilot
About Electra
Electra’s next gen mission is to develop Ultra Short aircraft, built for Direct Aviation. We are redefining the next level of connectivity, pioneering direct aviation – without airports, emissions, or noise. Electra’s Ultra Short aircraft will revolutionize air travel by bringing it closer to where we live, work, and play, making new connections possible. This makes a new venture like Electra exciting and fast-paced. Headquartered in Northern Virginia, we're on a quest to build a team of insanely talented people who want to do meaningful work.
Job Description
Electra is seeking an experienced Test Pilot to support development and piloting of both our two seat prototype and 9-passenger product hybrid electric, blown wing, UltraShort (eSTOL) aircraft. This is an incredible hands-on opportunity to make a direct impact on the future of aviation and advanced air mobility. This position will be based in Manassas, Virginia. You will be a part of a professional, high-performing flight team whose goal is to supply accurate, repeatable, and cost-effective data to the engineering group.
The primary objective of this role is to pilot our experimental technical demonstrator and other products. Additional objectives include normal Test Pilot duties relating to testing and certification and developing user interfaces, operating procedures, and training. This role will also support the development, certification, and demonstration of STOL test and evaluation.
Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions
- Complete experimental flight tests in an UltraShort take-off and landing aircraft
- Coordinate with flight test engineering teams to develop test plans, test cards, and test procedures
- Develop and maintain flight manuals, operations, checklists, and procedures
- Lead and/or participate in the safety of flight and flight readiness review boards
- Complete all required documentation in accordance with established company and FAA procedures
- Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types
Required Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or related field
- Ten (10) or more years of experience as a flight test engineer or test pilot directly related to the flight evaluation of crewed aircraft
Required Skills
- Commercial pilot license, single-engine and multi-engine land, with instrument rating-FAA Class II Medical -Without limitations
- Total time -1500 hours in aircraft -100 hours turbine
- PIC time -1000 hours in the airplane category -100 hours testing experimental aircraft
- Long course graduate of a recognized test pilot school or five years of equivalent experimental test pilot experience
- Experience with risk management, including hazard identification and preparing risk assessments
- Experience with experimental aircraft certification and testing
- Familiarity with standard flight test processes and procedures
- Knowledge of the FAA civil certification process
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proactive delivery of communication and follow up
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Must have the ability to independently prioritize and accomplish work within time constraints
- A strong work ethic and ability to independently execute the areas described in the responsibilities and essential functions
- Excellent organizational, collaboration and communication skills, ability to work effectively under pressure and with a team
Desired Qualifications
- Master’s degree in engineering or related field
- Experience working with the FAA and familiarization with aircraft, helicopter, or powered lift FAA certification programs
- Experience supporting the envelope expansion of new model aircraft
- Formation flying, flight training, and media demos
- Experience developing/optimizing simulators/ground control station and training equipment
- Experience in developing digital flight control systems
- Experience flight testing rapid prototype aircraft and components
- Experience working in fast-paced small teams
Travel:
Up to 50% of domestic and international travel
Salary: Electra's salary range for this position is: $111,550.00- $261,900.00Our salary ranges reflect the minimum and maximum range for the Company level overall across all locations & projects and does not necessarily reflect the budgeted amount for this position. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and/or training, role, level, location, and project.
Compensation and Benefits:
In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.
Working Conditions
Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.
Commitment
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law.
Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.Electra is an E-Verify employer.
