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Pivotal • Palo Alto, California, United States
Salary: USD 135,000–170,000 per year
Role & seniority
Stack/tools
CAD: CATIA (preferred)
Data analysis, flight test telemetry methods and procedures
Programming: MATLAB and/or Python (preferred)
Flight test documentation and EFIS/logging systems
Knowledge of FAA processes, certification testing frameworks
Top 3 responsibilities
Lead, coach, and manage all flight test activities for UAS and crewed eVTOL aircraft; ensure safety and regulatory alignment
Develop, plan, and execute test plans/procedures; coordinate cross-functionally with engineering, flight operations, and certification teams
Analyze aircraft performance, reliability, and subsystem data; document findings; implement design/process improvements; keep fleet flight-ready
Must-have skills
5+ years of flight testing experience with new/novel aircraft designs
B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Mechatronics Engineering
Proven leadership of flight testing projects from inception to completion
Strong envelope expansion testing, risk analysis, telemetry, and data analysis skills
Proficiency in CAD (CATIA preferred) and 2D documentation; clear technical writing
Ability to travel to local test sites; strong interpersonal communication
Nice-to-haves
SETP-recognized test pilot school training
Experience with aircraft certification flight testing; DoD aircraft devel
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly, the first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal vehicles are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been in development, preparing to enter the market for over 10 years. We recently announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, planned for general release and scalable production in 2025.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of technology investment today. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. We invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
You are responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing flight test activities to validate the performance, handling qualities, and safety of our UAS and crewed eVTOL aircraft. This includes developing detailed test plans and procedures, supporting ground and flight tests, and analyzing results to ensure accurate data capture and reporting. You work cross-functionally with engineering, flight operations, and certification teams to ensure all testing aligns with program milestones and regulatory requirements. A strong focus on safety, technical excellence, and continuous improvement is essential in this role as we progress toward certification and commercial operation.
Responsibilities Become a flight test leader and technical subject matter expert in novel eVTOL aircraft Lead, coach and mentor Pivotal’s flight test efforts based on established experience and expertise Immerse yourself in the design, test, operation, and maintenance of our aircraft Develop expertise with the technical aspects our aircraft systems and subsystems Strategize and collaborate planning between the flight test and engineering teams to develop and execute UAS and crewed flight testing Some travel required Analyze performance of aircraft electronics and other components for operational and reliability issues Troubleshoot and perform repairs and upgrades Suggest and/or implement design and process improvements Compile and document findings, results of tests, quality or safety concerns Keep aircraft fleet flight-ready. This position includes the opportunity to train to become a BlackFly pilot through our BlackFly training program.
Minimum Qualifications Passion for aviation and flight testing
B. S. or M.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Mechatronics Engineering
Preferred Qualifications Long course (or equivalent) training from an SETP recognized test pilot school Experience with aircraft certification flight testing Experience with aircraft development for DoD FAA Part 107 certificate FAA private or commercial pilot certificate Class II or III FAA medical certificate Flight Test DER or ODA unit member Familiarity with electric propulsion batteries, motors, motor controllers Programming and coding experience (Matlab and/or Python) Advanced Google Sheet or MS Excel skills Familiarity with FAA Order 4040.26C and ARP 4754
Attributes aligned with Core Values Demonstrates a proactive safety mindset by embedding safety into daily operations, identifying and mitigating risks through assessments and training, encouraging open dialogue on safety concerns, and continuously improving protocols to ensure a safe work environment Puts customers at the center of every action by deeply understanding their challenges, delivering exceptional value, and striving to exceed expectations to support their success as our core purpose Actively seeks and values diverse stakeholder perspectives, builds cross-functional relationships, and fosters trust through empathetic, fact-based communication—committing to shared decisions for the greater good Drives results with clarity and purpose by focusing on what matters most, adapting to change, taking initiative, and owning outcomes while aligning actions with a clear understanding of success at every level Navigates ambiguity with resilience and bold thinking, challenges the status quo, and combines innovative ideas with practical best practices to overcome obstacles and drive progress Fosters a high-performance culture grounded in respect, professionalism, and support—balancing high expectations with a healthy, collaborative environment and being a trusted, dependable teammate
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.