Senior Flight Test Engineer (Test Conductor)

Joby Aviation Senior Flight Test Test Conductor

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Senior Flight Test Test Conductor to join our flight test team. This role requires a wide range of knowledge and skill that includes developing detailed flight test plans for experimental CTOL/VTOL fly-by-wire aircraft, executing testing as a crewmember, and test data analysis. The role involves planning and execution of both development and certification flight testing. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is very fast-paced, and we are looking for an individual who can work with system designers to develop test procedures, deal with frequently changing test scenarios, and lead/follow effectively. This role can be based at our Flight Test Headquarters at Marina, CA, or at our secondary flight test facility in Hollister, CA.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of development, company, and certification flight testing of Joby S4 aircraft as a Test Conductor.
• Responsibilities include development of flight test methods for our new and novel eVTOL aircraft, flight test planning, flight test readiness reviews, flight briefs/debriefs, real-time data monitoring, and post-flight reporting.
• Develop flight test programs to strategically expand the envelope and capabilities of our vehicles, from experimental development through certification flight test.
• The successful candidate may be given the opportunity to lead flight test activities for an assigned flight test aircraft as a Project FTE.
• Collaborate with test pilots and other engineering groups across the company to develop flight test plans and ensure safe and effective test execution.
• Advise flight test pilots of the nature of the data to inform real-time decisions affecting safety, efficiency and effectiveness.
• Conduct engineering analysis of flight test data to support aircraft design and certification deliverables.
• Report on completed tests, including reporting any observed deficiencies and findings of compliance with requirements or regulations.
• Complete administrative work associated with testing, including configuration management, squawk reporting, flight limitation management, and test card creation.
• Assist with troubleshooting and root cause investigation of issues observed during flight testing.
• Develop expert-level knowledge of the systems and aircraft under test.
• Develop flight manuals and supporting documentation necessary for safe vehicle operation in accordance with established operating procedures.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

Required

• Passion for flight testing and willingness to learn about our new and novel aircraft.
• Bachelor of Science (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or other technical field) degree or equivalent experience and training.
• Minimum of 8 years of experimental flight test experience as a Flight Test Engineer, including at least 5 years as a Test Conductor.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively communicate across a wide range of technical disciplines.
• Strong technical and analytical skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in reading and speaking English.
• Flexibility to work extended hours and travel up to 30%

Desired

• FTE graduate of a recognized test pilot school or equivalent on the job experience.
• Strong working knowledge in one or more of the technical areas:
• Flying qualities and handling qualities
• Performance
• Loads and flutter
• Aircraft systems and/or propulsion
• Avionics
• Human factors
• Working experience with data analysis tools such as Matlab, Python, or similar.
• Civil aircraft certification experience, including familiarity with ARP 4754 processes and FAA AC 23-8C or AC 27-1B.
• Experimental flight test experience as a Flight Test Engineer, preferably including VTOL or STOVL with fly-by-wire systems.
• Flight Analyst DER or ODA Unit Member.
• Familiarity with FAA Order 4040.26C.

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $154,600 - $206,100/yr. The compensation package offered will be determined by location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Additional Information

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.