Chief Test Pilot - Experimental Flight Test
About Otto Aerospace OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aerospace is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.
About the Role This is a program-defining leadership role responsible for establishing and executing the airborne flight test campaign for a clean-sheet turbine aircraft from first flight through type certification. Reporting to the Head of Flight Operations, the Chief Test Pilot serves as the technical and safety authority for all flight operations and plays a critical role in aircraft design, certification strategy, and program execution. This individual will interface directly with FAA representatives, engineering leadership, and executive stakeholders to achieve certification objectives on schedule and within budget
What You’ll Do
Serve as Pilot-in-Command (PIC) for experimental and certification flight tests across the aircraft development program
Author and approve test pilot reports, handling qualities evaluations, and performance assessment
Provide technical input to Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) development and engineering design reviews
Lead development and execution of Flight Test Plans (FTPs), Procedures, and Reports (FTRs)
Establish flight operations policies, procedures, and Safety Management System (SMS)
Develop pilot training programs, SOPs, and operational flight manuals
Recruit, train, and manage test pilots and flight crew personnel
Define crew coordination standards, briefing practices, and operational risk management frameworks
Serve as primary interface with FAA and certification authorities for flight test activities
Lead development of certification flight test plans, compliance documentation, and Issue Papers
Ensure adherence to applicable regulations (14 CFR Parts 21/23/25, Part 91, etc.)
Support FAA and company program reviews, briefings, and certification milestones
Provide pilot perspective into aircraft design, cockpit/crew station development, and human factors
Lead flight test safety analysis, hazard identification, and Safety Review Board processes
Participate in program reviews (e.g., PDR, CDR, FRR) and influence key design decisions
Coordinate closely with engineering, systems integration, and program management
Who You Are
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field
Graduate of an accredited Test Pilot School (USAF TPS, USN TPS, NTPS, ETPS, EPNER, or equivalent)
Experience
15+ years of progressive flight test experience
Minimum 3,500 total flight hours including turbine aircraft experience
Significant experience conducting experimental or certification flight testing as PIC
Demonstrated leadership on turbine aircraft certification programs
Deep expertise in aircraft systems, aerodynamics, handling qualities, and certification processes
Experience authoring flight test documentation (FTP, FTR, etc.)
Strong communication skills with experience interfacing with engineering teams and regulatory authorities
FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and current First Class Medical (or ability to obtain)
Required Skills
Active Listening: Strive to gain insight and truly understand all project stakeholders
Critical Thinking: Make prompt, informed, value-based decisions
Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, as well as communicating tasks, updates, progress, and blockers
Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points to formulate the best solution
Self-Motivation: Demonstrate the highest level of commitment and drive to see projects through
Teamwork and Team Building: Contribute to a collaborative culture where people with unique personalities and skills work together effectively and hold themselves accountable to shared goals
Strong Business Communication: Use professional language and tone in all forms of communication
Where You’ll Be
This role is based onsite in Jacksonville, FL with potential travel (up to ~25%) in support of flight test operations.
Benefits Otto Aerospace provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short-term disability, voluntary long-term disability and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.
Otto Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
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