Stratolaunch Jobs

Position Summary

Stratolaunch is developing an air-launch platform to contribute to high-speed research and development. The goal of Stratolaunch is to utilize the capabilities of the Stratolaunch Carrier Aircraft and air-launch test vehicles to enable development of technologies that may not exist otherwise. Stratolaunch strives to create technology development opportunities for commercial, philanthropic, and governmental organizations to collect rich and actionable data and drive advancements in science, research, and technology.

As a Sr. Test Pilot on the Stratolaunch Carrier Aircraft, the world’s largest-wingspan aircraft, you will have the opportunity to accomplish new milestones in aviation. You will provide comprehensive flight test technical support for experimental and developmental aircraft and payload systems development. You should possess extensive experience in developmental flight test, and sound judgment to plan and accomplish program goals safely and effectively. You must establish and maintain effective relationships with colleagues on a small, agile design-to-flight team. Tasks include planning and flying test flights as Pilot in Command (PIC) or Second in Command (SIC); supporting ground tests as Test Conductor, Test Director, or Flight Test Engineer; preparing system test plans and flight test cards; participating in engineering design reviews, simulator evaluations, technical and safety reviews and flight briefings; drafting flight manual and operational guidance and documenting test results. As a key member of the Flight Operations team, you will have an essential role in meeting all Flight Operations objectives. You will be challenged with bringing a unique and complex aircraft from early development to operational use, and proving capabilities for high-speed vehicle launch.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as PIC/SIC for the experimental Carrier Aircraft, as well as other aircraft to be used for chase, training, and pacer missions.

• Write flight test plans, test cards, flight reports, and final test reports

• Lead and/or participate in system design and design reviews

• Develop test strategies, test plans and test procedures for aircraft and components

• Lead and/or participate in ground and flight test events as test crew member or Test Conductor

• Author and/or update Pilot Operating Handbook and related guidance, to include development of normal and emergency procedures

• Maintain flying currency and proficiency in multiple different aircraft types

• Must be able to work in a high stress environment when required

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Pilot graduate of a full course test pilot school (SETP-recognized)

• Minimum 1,200 hours total PIC flight time, to include at least 500 hours in turbine aircraft

• Three years of test pilot experience on developmental flight test programs

• FAA Commercial Multi‐Engine Land pilot certificate, without a centerline thrust restriction

• FAA Second Class medical certificate

• Bachelor’s Degree in engineering, or similar technical foundation to support aircraft design

• Be independent and motivated; able to self‐direct and manage time effectively

• Be able to work irregular hours and work days, and travel periodically

• Be knowledgeable of applicable Federal Aviation Regulations for flight operations and aircraft certification

• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Possess or be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance

• United States citizenship

• Must have the ability to work in cramped, confined cockpit environments in both hot and cold environments for up to 8 hours with limited movement. Must have the ability to operate cockpit flight controls with up to 150 lbs. of rudder forces, elevator forces up to 120 lbs., and aileron forces up to 90 lbs. Must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as instructed, to include flight helmet, oxygen mask and backpack parachute, and have the ability to egress cockpit area up to 10 feet off the ground via rope.

HIGHLY DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• FAA Airline Transport Rating (ATP), or additional FAA type ratings and experience in multi-engine, non-centerline thrust aircraft

• Possess FAA high altitude endorsement or equivalent military training

• Experience as pilot in heavy multi-engine turbine aircraft

• Six years of relevant experience on developmental flight test programs

• Experience with external stores carriage and separation flight tests

• Master’s Degree in engineering or related technical field

• Previous experience with advanced flight controls or autonomous aircraft development

• Previous experience with experimental or modified aircraft, technical and safety review boards, and configuration control

• Familiar with government flight test organizations, ranges, and procedures

Special remarks

• This position is located in Mojave, CA

Applicants must be a US citizen or Green Card holder to be considered for this role.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law:

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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Job Category: Flight Operations