Head of Flight Test

ABOUT SKYRYSE:

Our mission at Skyryse is nothing less than a new era in flight, where fatalities are nearly zero, piloting any aircraft is simple and safe, and the sky is accessible to all. SkyOS, our industry-first universal operating system for flight, provides any airplane or helicopter with a fly-by-wire flight management solution that significantly reduces the complexity of flying. Skyryse One, our first production aircraft powered by SkyOS, was unveiled in 2024 and features the simplest, safest, and most intuitive flight controls in general aviation.

HEAD OF FLIGHT TEST - CAMARILLO, CA

As the Head of Flight Test, you will be responsible for ensuring the safety and operational readiness of vehicles for intended test flights. You will lead a team of test pilots and interface with engineering teams, aircraft mechanics, site leadership, Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC) teams, and flight test engineers to guarantee the smooth execution of flight operations. Additionally, you will oversee the entire flight test program, ensuring that flights are conducted safely and efficiently to meet mission objectives.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure Safety and Preparedness: Oversee all aspects of vehicle safety and readiness for flight operations. Implement and enforce safety protocols and procedures to mitigate risks during flight tests. Collaborate with engineering teams to address any safety concerns or technical issues.
• Interface with Stakeholders: Coordinate with engineering teams to integrate feedback and modifications into flight test plans. Liaise with aircraft mechanics to ensure proper maintenance and upkeep of test vehicles. Collaborate with site leadership to coordinate logistical support for flight test activities. Engage with GNC teams to ensure flight control systems are optimized for testing objectives. Work closely with flight test engineers and test pilots to develop comprehensive test plans and strategies.
• Flight Test Leadership: Serve as the primary point of contact for all flight test operations. Lead the flight test program, ensuring adherence to schedule and objectives. Coordinate with test pilots to conduct flights safely and effectively. Manage engineering requests and prioritize tasks to meet program milestones. Facilitate pre-flight readiness reviews and post-flight debriefings. Take ownership of the aircraft fleet and ensure their operational readiness. Conduct regular assessments to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Communication and Collaboration: Foster a culture of open communication and collaboration among team members. Provide regular updates to senior management regarding the status of flight test activities. Communicate effectively with all stakeholders to ensure alignment on objectives and priorities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in flight test operations, with demonstrated leadership capabilities.
• Strong understanding of aviation regulations, safety protocols, and best practices.
• Experience working with multi-disciplinary teams, including engineers, mechanics, and pilots.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to effectively convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

• FAA Commercial Pilot License or Test Pilot School graduate (preferred but not required).
• Familiarity with flight test instrumentation and data analysis tools.

WHY SKYRYSE?

• The opportunity to change the world through improving aviation safety and accessibility 
• Valuable stock option plan
• Heavily subsidized medical, dental and vision plans
• Full-time employees are eligible for 20 days of paid time off (PTO) and 5 sick days annually.  PTO and sick days must be used in accordance with Company policy.
• A company with an ambitious vision, a dynamic work environment, and a team of smart, motivated, and fun to work-with colleagues!

Your base salary will be determined based on experience and the pay of of employees in similar positions. 

WE WELCOME ALL

Skyryse is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

NO AGENCY CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED.