LTA Research
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. The ideal candidate is an experienced flight test engineer with expertise in experimental aircraft development, particularly first‑flight operations.
Responsibilities
Flight Test Development & Execution
Acquire in‑depth knowledge of the airship’s aerodynamics, flight control systems, propulsion, avionics, structures, and electrical systems.
Plan, build, and execute flight test campaigns, including test methodologies, instrumentation requirements, data collection processes, and test objectives.
Develop and refine flight test plans, test procedures, and flight test cards, ensuring they meet engineering and operational requirements.
Lead pre‑flight and post‑flight briefings, coordinating with pilots, test teams, and ground support personnel while acting as Test Director.
Monitor real‑time telemetry and analyze flight test data to validate aircraft performance and system functionality.
Generate system‑level flight test requirements and ensure traceability from design through test execution.
Identify and mitigate flight test safety risks through hazard identification, THA, failure mode analysis, and ORM processes.
Collaborate with FAA regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with experimental aircraft certification and flight test safety protocols.
Support test article configuration control and assess system changes for test readiness.
Conduct post‑flight data analysis, troubleshoot anomalies, and refine future test scenarios.
Document and present findings through technical reports, flight test summaries, and safety briefings.
Work closely with software and controls engineers to integrate real‑time flight data processing and visualization tools.
Work with cockpit and human‑factors engineers to develop optimized flight deck layouts, displays, and controls.
Coordinate with flight controls engineers to evaluate digital flight control systems (fly‑by‑wire and/or stability augmentation systems).
Assist in the development of operational manuals, including the Airship Flight Manual (AFM), Quick Reference Handbook (QRH), and maintenance guides.
Provide training and mentorship to junior flight test engineers and test personnel.
Qualifications
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).
Must be able to pass a background check and complete all requirements for federal airfield flight line access.
Must be able to obtain and maintain an 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%).
Preferred Qualifications
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.
What We Offer
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
Compliance Requirements
Criminal background check clearance
Drug test clearance wherever applicable
EEO Statement:
Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.
Salary: $130,000 – $170,000 a year (subject to experience, geography, and qualifications). Additional compensation includes a competitive annual bonus, 401(k) match, and other generous benefits.
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Responsibilities
Flight Test Development & Execution
Acquire in‑depth knowledge of the airship’s aerodynamics, flight control systems, propulsion, avionics, structures, and electrical systems.
Plan, build, and execute flight test campaigns, including test methodologies, instrumentation requirements, data collection processes, and test objectives.
Develop and refine flight test plans, test procedures, and flight test cards, ensuring they meet engineering and operational requirements.
Lead pre‑flight and post‑flight briefings, coordinating with pilots, test teams, and ground support personnel while acting as Test Director.
Monitor real‑time telemetry and analyze flight test data to validate aircraft performance and system functionality.
Generate system‑level flight test requirements and ensure traceability from design through test execution.
Identify and mitigate flight test safety risks through hazard identification, THA, failure mode analysis, and ORM processes.
Collaborate with FAA regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with experimental aircraft certification and flight test safety protocols.
Support test article configuration control and assess system changes for test readiness.
Conduct post‑flight data analysis, troubleshoot anomalies, and refine future test scenarios.
Document and present findings through technical reports, flight test summaries, and safety briefings.
Work closely with software and controls engineers to integrate real‑time flight data processing and visualization tools.
Work with cockpit and human‑factors engineers to develop optimized flight deck layouts, displays, and controls.
Coordinate with flight controls engineers to evaluate digital flight control systems (fly‑by‑wire and/or stability augmentation systems).
Assist in the development of operational manuals, including the Airship Flight Manual (AFM), Quick Reference Handbook (QRH), and maintenance guides.
Provide training and mentorship to junior flight test engineers and test personnel.
Qualifications
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).
Must be able to pass a background check and complete all requirements for federal airfield flight line access.
Must be able to obtain and maintain an 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%).
Preferred Qualifications
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.
What We Offer
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
Compliance Requirements
Criminal background check clearance
Drug test clearance wherever applicable
EEO Statement:
Lighter Than Air is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, veteran status or any other discriminatory factors prohibited by law.
Salary: $130,000 – $170,000 a year (subject to experience, geography, and qualifications). Additional compensation includes a competitive annual bonus, 401(k) match, and other generous benefits.
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