The Senior Flight Test Engineer will play a critical role in the planning, execution, and analysis of flight test campaigns for a next-generation rigid airship. This position requires hands-on experience in flight test operations, system integration, and data analysis.
Requirements
- Flight test engineering experience in experimental, developmental, or certification flight test programs.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Experience in first flight operations and aircraft envelope expansion testing.
- Strong knowledge of aircraft performance, aerodynamics, and stability & control principles.
- Familiarity with FAA experimental certification requirements and flight test safety standards.
- Proficiency in data acquisition systems, telemetry, and post-flight analysis tools.
- Experience with flight test instrumentation, data logging, and calibration techniques.
- Completion of a formal Test Pilot School program (e.g., NTPS, USNTPS, or equivalent), or demonstrated directly relatable flight test experience (5+ years).
- Successful candidate must be able to pass a background check and complete all requirements for federal airfield flight line access.
- Successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a FAA class 3 medical certificate.
- Must be willing to relocate to a commutable distance to Sunnyvale, CA region.
- Travel may be required occasionally depending on business needs. (~15%)
- Pilot Certificate (Private Pilot or higher).
- Experience with digital flight control systems (fly-by-wire and/or stability augmentation systems).
- Proficiency in human factors engineering, cockpit display design, and avionics integration.
- Background in aircraft electrical systems, hybrid propulsion, and/or novel aerospace power architectures is a plus.
- Experience with FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certificate (AWC) and Type Certification processes, including certification plans, compliance demonstration, and conformity inspections.
- Experience in Reliability Testing, including failure mode analysis, lifecycle testing, and statistical analysis of test data to predict long-term system performance.
Benefits
- Relocation assistance
- Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan (100% premium paid for individuals, ~70% for dependents)
- Company-paid life, AD&D, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurances
- Parental leave
- Generous PTO + 10 paid holidays
- 401(k) matching up to 6%
- Lunch and snacks provided every day, including accommodations for all dietary restrictions
- Monthly wellness stipend
- Monthly cell phone stipend
- Yearly education stipend to obtain certifications or take classes in your field
- Fun events, swag, and the occasional airship ride
- An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and the most talented experts from different fields
