Calspan has been at the forefront of aircraft Flying Qualities (FQ), Pilot-Induced Oscillation (PIO), and Upset Recovery Training (URT) research and instruction in variable stability aircraft for decades. We operated the USAF NT-33 T-Bird and C-131H Total In-Flight Simulator (TIFS) variable stability aircraft and continue to operate the X-62A Variable Stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft (VISTA). Today, commercial instruction is conducted in Calspan's variable stability Learjets.

Calspan supports aerospace industry innovators by teaming with seven of the eight SETP-recognized test pilot schools to provide world-class airborne instruction. We have been teaching at the U.S. Air Force and Naval Test Pilot Schools for more than half a century.  Additionally, we offer short courses taught at our state-of-the-art flight test facility located at the Niagara Falls, NY, International Airport (KIAG).

We are looking for an experienced Test Pilot to join our team at our Niagara Falls, NY location.  Primary duties include safely and efficiently providing flight test and training in various Calspan experimental aircrafts. Our pilots are responsible for all aspects of flight test and operations including test and safety planning, execution and reporting.

This is a great opportunity to be part of a well-established and growing organization that prides itself on its Be Calspan Values. If you think you have what it takes to Be Calspan we encourage you to apply. 

• Participate in all aspects of flight testing including: handling qualities demonstration and research flights; upset recovery training flights in experimental aircraft; proposal preparation; experiment design; aircraft and systems preparation; flight test planning and implementation; data analysis, and technical report writing.
• Regularly contribute to the development of new concepts, techniques and standards as an expert in the field within the business group.
• Develop solutions to complex problems, which require the regular use of ingenuity and innovation. Ensures solutions are consistent with business group and organizational objectives.
• Perform work independently without appreciable direction. Exercise considerable latitude in determining objectives and approaches to assignments.
• Serve as consultant to management and serve as the external spokesperson for the business group/functional organization on major matters pertaining to its policies, plans and objectives. Participate in new business proposal preparation.

Preferred Education / Experience:

• Graduate of a military test pilot school, or five (5) years’ experience as an engineering research pilot or experimental test pilot with a military government agency or aircraft contractor, required.
• Pilot Licenses  - at least FAA Commercial, Multi-Engine Land, Instrument Rating.
• Medical Required – at least FAA Class 2 medical.
• Military trained pilot with jet or turboprop aircraft operational experience or equivalent training with 2,000 hours of pilot time, 1,000 hours in jet or turboprop aircraft.
• Due to security requirements, US Citizenship is required.
• Must live within 5 hours of Niagara Falls, NY location

Preferred Knowledge / Ability:

• Experience with project management, flight testing and evaluations of aircraft stability and control, flying/handling qualities, flight control systems or other airborne systems.
• Flight test instructor experience; at least one year teaching academic theory and airborne test techniques strongly desired.
• Previous experience (one year) with the training programs at a military test pilot school desired.
• 30% travel to Niagara Falls, NY, not to exceed a two week period. 

Why join Calspan?

Be Calspan Culture

At Calspan, we promote an environment that empowers employees and encourages innovation. Our management team enables a strong sense of teamwork with each endeavor, where successes are shared and lessons are learned. The company’s talent brand, “Be Calspan”, incorporates our company values to Be Inclusive, Accountable, and Innovative and our commitment to drive every individual to - Be Developed, Be Balanced, Be Connected, Be Community and Be Recognized. Our culture promotes a positive atmosphere and competitive can-do method of action.

Great Benefits= Happy, Committed Employees 

Retaining great talent is as important as finding it, so at Calspan, we take our employee value proposition of Be Calspan quite seriously. To us, that means offering competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, recognition programs and promotional opportunities. Our benefits include: Health Insurance, Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance/Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Short-Term/Long-Term Disability, 401(k), Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Universal Life Insurance Policy, Paid-Time Off, Company-paid Holidays, Bereavement Leave, Jury Duty, Military Leave, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Reimbursement , and Pet Insurance.

Calspan is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status. Calspan supports safe and drug free workplace through pre-employment background checks and drug testing.