Pivotal2mo ago

Senior Manager, Flight Test

United States·Palo AltoFull-time (Exempt)senior

OtherManager

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Quick Summary

Overview

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 aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.

Technical Tools

data-analysismentoring

Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in early 2026.

Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.

Team Leadership: Oversee the flight test team, which includes operations and engineering personnel

Test Deployment: Design and improve test deployment strategies, ensuring efficient execution and comprehensive reporting of results

Plan Design and Review: Take charge of designing and reviewing test plans for Mechanical and Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) systems

Data Analysis: Perform in-depth analysis of flight data to identify and address anomalies, root causes, and bugs

Plan Execution: Design and execute test plans, including helix tests and future aircraft architecture tests

Fleet Management: Contribute to the design of fleet management practices to ensure efficient operation of the aircraft fleet

Risk Assessment: Complete and manage operational risk assessments for both unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and manned flight operations

Tool & KPI Development: Create tools to visualize flight data and aid in root cause analysis, speeding up bug resolution processes

Flight Testing: Conduct flight and handling qualities testing of experimental hardware and software configurations, potentially serving as a crewed test pilot

Mentorship: Mentor other engineers and flight crew members, sharing expertise and best practices

Industry Best Practices: Implement best practices from the industry to mature the flight organization and improve efficiency and safety

Regulatory Compliance: Manage, maintain, and ensure compliance with UAS Certificate of Authorization (COA), Special Airworthiness Certificates (SAC-EC), and other relevant certifications.

Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. Advanced degrees or certifications may be preferred

Extensive experience in flight testing with a strong understanding of flight test methodologies and procedures

Experience in leadership roles, managing teams and projects effectively

Proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques for interpreting flight data

Knowledge of aviation regulations and compliance requirements for UAS operations

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective collaboration with team members and stakeholders

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to innovate and adapt in dynamic environments

Experience with mentoring and coaching to develop the skills of junior team members

Familiarity with industry standards and best practices in flight testing and aircraft development

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.