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Staff Flight Research Flight Test Engineer

Joby Aviation

Concord, CA · Posted October 22, 2026

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About the job

Company Overview

Joby Flight Research designs, develops, and flight-tests novel aircraft using a software-first autonomy approach. We build and deploy autonomy, perception, planning, and radar systems across conventional, electric, and hydrogen-electric aircraft in both CTOL and VTOL configurations.

Overview

Joby Aviation’s Flight Research team is looking for a Flight Test Engineer to support its advanced development efforts. This role will primarily focus on the autonomy portfolio which includes the Cessna Caravan platform. Drawing on your experience flight testing large aircraft, the role will provide ownership of a wide range of development, testing, analysis, and reporting activities.

The ideal candidate will also hold FAA pilot certificates and will be able to operate large uncrewed aircraft.

Responsibilities

Work closely with discipline engineers, test pilots, maintenance, and leadership to establish and execute flight test programs of complex vehicles and systems

Develop expert level knowledge of the systems and aircraft under test

Perform flight test planning, flight readiness reviews, flight briefs/debriefs, act as a crewmember during test execution and perform post flight data analysis

Works as a member of the flight crew including monitoring data in real time to assure the safety and proper conduct of flight tests

Reports on completed tests including reporting any observed deficiencies and findings of compliance with requirements or regulations

Advises the flight test pilot of nature of the data to inform real time decisions affecting safety, efficiency and effectiveness

Completes administrative work associated with testing including configuration management, squawk reporting, flight limitation management and test card creation

Assists with troubleshooting and root cause investigation of issues observed during flight testing

Develops flight manuals and supporting documentation necessary to operate the vehicles in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices

Other duties as assigned or required

At least 10% travel required to support short term participation in military exercises or other remote test campaigns

Required

Bachelor's degree in related field

8+ years of experience in related field

Bachelor of Science (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or other technical field) degree or equivalent experience and training

Previous experimental flight test experience as a Flight Test Engineer- particularly in a Test Conductor role

Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with colleagues across a wide range of technical disciplines

Strong technical and analytical skills

Must be able to work both independently and on a team and be able to work extended hours and travel as required

Read and speak English proficiently

This position must meet US export control compliance requirements, therefore a candidate must qualify as a “US Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15. “US Person” includes US Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.

Desired

FTE graduate of a recognized test pilot school or equivalent on the job experience

FAA private pilot or commercial pilot certificate with instrument rating

An ability to maintain an FAA Class II medical

Data analysis experience using Matlab, Python or similar

Familiarity with FAA Order 4040.26C

Experience with liquid hydrogen vehicles

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $185,300 - $254,800/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Additional Information

Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.