Become an Aircraft Pilot for the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command

Are you looking for a career that combines high-level aviation expertise with the opportunity to support national defense? The U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground is seeking qualified Aircraft Pilots to join the elite team at the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC). This position offers a unique blend of flight operations and critical research, placing you at the heart of military modernization.

Job Responsibilities

As an Aircraft Pilot, your primary duties involve conducting flight operations in support of test missions. You will work closely with scientists and engineers to evaluate the performance of emerging technologies. Key responsibilities include:

Executing flight plans for complex test scenarios.
Communicating flight requirements and status updates to project teams.
Ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols during test missions.
Managing aviation operations to support research and development.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must hold a valid pilot license or certification relevant to the position.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening.

Salary Overview

This position provides a competitive salary commensurate with federal standards.

Pay Period	Salary Range
Annual	$106,437 - $138,370

Benefits

Employees at ATEC are eligible for a robust federal benefits package, including:

Access to recruitment and relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
Potential for student loan repayment assistance.
Federal health and life insurance options.
Competitive retirement plans and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) enrollment.

Application Tips

Submit a concise, two-page resume that clearly outlines your aviation experience. Ensure you provide month-and-year start/end dates for all previous roles and explicitly state the hours worked per week. Always include your pilot certifications as an attachment to avoid being marked as ineligible.

Serving as an Aircraft Pilot with the U.S. Army is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and success of our armed forces. If you have the flight experience and the drive to contribute to world-class innovation, apply through the ATEC portal today.

Why This Aircraft Pilot Job Matters

Take your aviation career to new heights by supporting the critical testing and evaluation missions of the U.S. Army at the Yuma Proving Ground.

Aircraft Pilot Job Overview

The U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) is seeking a skilled Aircraft Pilot for a specialized role at the Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona. This position is vital to the military's testing and modernization efforts, ensuring that soldiers receive safe, effective, and reliable equipment. As a pilot, you will operate aircraft in support of testing advanced technologies, ranging from ground vehicles to next-generation aviation systems.

Requirements for Aircraft Pilot

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must possess a valid job-related pilot license or certification.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Must be willing to undergo drug testing as required.
Completion of a one-year probationary period upon hiring.
Male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959, must register for Selective Service.

Preferred Qualifications for Aircraft Pilot

Demonstrated expertise in aviation operations and flight planning.
Strong communication and briefing skills for technical reporting.
Experience operating within military or federal testing and evaluation environments.
Advanced flight certifications relevant to specific test aircraft requirements.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
✓Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances available for eligible candidates.
✓Comprehensive federal employee benefits package.
✓Potential for recruitment and relocation incentives.
✓Opportunities for student loan repayment programs.
✓Credit for leave accrual for qualified candidates.

💡 How to Apply Aircraft Pilot Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Aircraft Pilot Job

Review the specific job vacancy requirements provided in the application portal.
Prepare a resume limited to two pages or less detailing relevant work history, hours worked, and specific tasks.
Gather copies of all required pilot licenses and certifications.
Visit the designated ATEC application portal to submit your materials.
Ensure all documentation is submitted before the closing date of November 16, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes clear start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position.
Avoid using unexplained acronyms; use plain language to describe your accomplishments.
Verify that your pilot certification is clearly attached to your application.
Review your document package to ensure it is complete, as incomplete applications will not be processed.
Sanitize sensitive personal information on documents like military orders if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the Aircraft Pilot at Yuma Proving Ground?

You will be responsible for operating aircraft to support the testing and evaluation of military equipment, ensuring that all gear and technologies meet the Army's high standards for safety and performance.

Is a security clearance required for this position?

Yes, this role requires a Secret security clearance and is subject to drug testing and national security adjudication.

What if my resume is over two pages?

Resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically removed from consideration. Keep your summary focused and relevant to the pilot qualifications listed.

Is telework allowed?

Yes, this position is telework-eligible, subject to management approval and operational requirements.

Job from U.S. Army Test And Evaluation Command

ATEC is the independent test and evaluation organization for the U.S. Army. With over 8,500 personnel, ATEC ensures that every piece of equipment—from ground vehicles to sophisticated aerial platforms—is rigorously tested before it reaches a soldier. Yuma Proving Ground serves as a premier test center, utilizing the nation's longest overland artillery range to push technology to its limits.