Become a Test Pilot Flight Instructor with the U.S. Army
Are you an experienced aviator looking to make a lasting impact on national security? The U.S. Army Redstone Test Center (RTC) is currently recruiting for a Test Pilot Flight Instructor at the prestigious U.S. Naval Test Pilot School in Patuxent River, Maryland. This role is a unique intersection of high-stakes flight testing and educational leadership, offering a dynamic environment for those at the top of their field.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Instruct experienced pilots and test engineers on aircraft and systems testing.
- Conduct flight tests to evaluate the performance of modified aircraft.
- Manage project schedules, funding, and resources to meet organizational objectives.
- Serve as a subject matter expert, advising senior leadership on complex aviation challenges.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent flight and experience criteria:
- Total Flight Time: 1,750 hours.
- Pilot-in-Command: 1,150 hours.
- Heavy Aircraft Time: 500 hours in aircraft over 12,500 lbs.
- Recency: 100 hours in the last 12 months.
| Requirement Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| Certification | Commercial Pilot / Flight Instructor |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Location | Patuxent River, MD |
| Experience Level | Equivalent to GS-13 |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a highly competitive salary range between $143,913 and $197,200 annually. Employees enjoy robust federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, a federal retirement plan, and potential for relocation incentives.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume under two pages.
- Clearly document flight hour totals.
- Ensure all certifications are attached.
This is more than a flight job; it is a critical mission to ensure the safety and success of our military forces. If you meet the rigorous flight requirements, apply today to lead the future of test aviation.
Why This Test Pilot Flight Instructor Job Matters
Take your aviation expertise to the next level: Instruct the next generation of test pilots at the United States Naval Test Pilot School.
Test Pilot Flight Instructor Job Overview
The U.S. Army Redstone Test Center is seeking an experienced Test Pilot Flight Instructor to join its elite team at Patuxent River, Maryland. In this pivotal role, you will provide advanced instruction to highly skilled aviators and engineers, guiding them through the complexities of flight testing sophisticated weapons systems, sensors, and aircraft. This position is a rare opportunity to influence the future of Army aviation technology while serving at a premiere flight test facility.
Requirements for Test Pilot Flight Instructor
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current Commercial Pilot Certificate or equivalent military rating
- FAA Flight Instructor Certificate or military equivalent
- Ability to obtain a first or second-class FAA medical certificate
- Minimum of 1,750 hours total flight time
- Minimum of 1,150 hours pilot-in-command time
- Minimum of 75 hours of night flight experience
- Minimum of 500 hours in heavy multi-engine aircraft or heavy helicopters (over 12,500 lbs)
- Minimum of 100 hours of flight time within the last 12 months
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
Preferred Qualifications for Test Pilot Flight Instructor
- Expertise in flight test curriculum development
- Proven history of managing complex aviation programs
- Strong communication skills for instructing experienced military personnel
- Experience in cross-functional team leadership
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary range with locality pay
- ✓Federal health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans with government matching
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified candidates
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Test Pilot Flight Instructor Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Test Pilot Flight Instructor Job
- Ensure your resume is strictly limited to two pages or less.
- Prepare all required documentation, including pilot certifications and proof of flight hours.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline on August 31, 2026.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly detail your flight hour categories; do not use acronyms that may be unclear to HR reviewers.
- Ensure your resume covers all specialized experience requirements, including start/end dates and hours worked per week.
- Upload your flight certificates and medical clearance documentation immediately, as these are mandatory for consideration.
- Take advantage of the two-page limit by focusing on the most relevant testing and instructional experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree required for this position?
This position prioritizes specialized flight experience. You must meet the flight hour and certification requirements; education substitution is not permitted for this role.
What happens after I submit my application?
The HR office will review your documentation against the specialized experience criteria. You will receive email notifications regarding your application status throughout the process.
Are there medical requirements?
Yes, you must be willing and able to obtain a first or second-class FAA medical certificate to hold this position.
Job from U.S. Army Test And Evaluation Command
The U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) is the backbone of Army equipment testing. From aerial vehicles to advanced weaponry, if a Soldier uses it, ATEC tests it. By joining this team, you become part of a network of 8,500 professionals dedicated to ensuring that military technology is safe, reliable, and effective before it reaches the front lines.