Head of Lab and Flight Test
What is JetZero?
Today’s aircraft contribute around 4% of global CO2 emissions, equivalent to the emissions of 200 million cars. This is only going to increase: Air travel is forecasted to double by 2050, while meaningful efficiency gains using current airplanes have hit a wall.
JetZero is developing a blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft. It uses up to 50% less fuel and will be built to accommodate zero-emission hydrogen propulsion. JetZero is the inevitable solution to sustainable air travel.
The JetZero team
We are experienced aerospace professionals and engineers, excited about the future. That future will only be possible if we share our vision and what it means to people’s lives: carbon-free flight that' is better for both passengers and airlines around the world.
JetZero is seeking a Head of Lab and Flight Test to oversee all system test lab and vehicle ground/flight test activities required for the various JetZero development programs. This role requires deep expertise in system test lab design and operation, aircraft test methods, safety culture, as well as strong leadership skills.
The Head of Lab and Flight Test acts as the overall authority for the design, build and operation of the JetZero system test labs as well as developing and overseeing the flight test teams for both subscale and full-scale test aircraft. This role will ensure that all lab and aircraft test activities are conducted in a safe and efficient manner and in accordance with applicable regulations and follow relevant company policies and procedures. This role will also be responsible for establishing a test center, for both lab and aircraft testing, to support a commercial jetliner development and certification program under a one team mindset.
What You'll Do:
- Lead a team of engineers in the design, build, and operation of the system test labs, including a flying qualities simulator, system integration lab and hydro-mechanical integration lab, supporting the design and development of the full-scale demonstrator aircraft as well as the Z4 commercial jetliner
- Lead the test team responsible for ground and flight testing of all Pathfinder sub-scale test aircraft
- Lead the test team responsible for ground and flight testing of the full-scale demonstrator aircraft
- Establish the infrastructure to support the Demonstrator full scale aircraft flight test program
- Lead the development of testing strategies to support safe, efficient and effective testing
- Establish a Test Center to support the development and certification testing of the Z4 jetliner including both lab and aircraft test activities
- Define Statements of Work for each major project and ensure team execution in line with the cost and schedule targets for each project
- Ensure compliance with industry and regulatory standards and safety regulations by establishing formal guidelines and procedures for the execution of lab test and aircraft ground and flight test activities
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize test requirements and support execution of the test methods (lab and vehicle) in order to achieve the objectives of each project
- Identify and mitigate technical and safety risks throughout the development lifecycle
- Build, lead, inspire, and continue to develop a diverse team aligned around shared goals and in line with the JetZero company values
What You Bring:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- 15+ years of experience in experimental or developmental lab and flight test engineering supporting aircraft development and certification
- Demonstrated experience leading lab and/or flight test programs
- Extensive knowledge of test lab configurations, capabilities and operations as applied to support aircraft development programs
- Strong understanding of aircraft systems, flight test techniques, and operations
- Strong understanding of FAR Part 25 flight test and associated FAA flight test procedures
- Excellent technical judgment and decision-making skills in dynamic test environments
- Strong leadership, communication, and coordination skills
- Able to travel to remote test sites as required
Preferred Skills & Qualifications:
- Experience with fly-by-wire systems and novel aircraft configurations
- Experience with non-certified prototype aircraft development and test
- Graduate of a SETP or SFTE Recognized Test Pilot School, or equivalent operational background
Compensation:
Our compensation package is a blend of base salary and equity options for eligible employees. The range for this role is $210,000 - $260,000. We consider a number of factors when presenting a final offer, including geography, internal equity and years of experience and expertise.
Benefits
- Unlimited PTO
- 10 paid holidays
- 401(k)
- Medical, Dental, Life insurance
- Disability Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Equity tax advisory services
- Supportive work culture
The Interview Process
We want our interview process to be a true reflection of our culture: transparent and collaborative. Throughout the interview process, your recruiter will guide you through the next steps and ensure you feel prepared every step of the way.
- Our First Chat: During this first conversation, you’ll meet with a recruiter or hiring team member to chat through your background, what you could bring to our team, what you are looking for in your next role, and who we are.
- The Hiring Manager Interview: You will meet with your potential future boss to really dive into the role, the team, expectations, and what success means at JetZero. This is your chance to really nerd out with someone in your field.
- The Panel: Learn more about the team, responsibilities, and workflows. You should be prepared to speak about past projects, how you collaborate and communicate with others, and how you live our values. Depending on the team and role you are interviewing for, you may meet with several teammates as well as cross-functional partners.
- The Executive Review: A chance to meet an executive and view JetZero from a different lens. Be prepared to ask well-thought-out questions about the company, culture, and more.
Depeneding on the position you are interviewing for, there may also be a Take Home Exercise as part of the interview proccess. Our assessments seek to test the hard skills required to do the job. Your recruiter will inform you of which assessment you will be assigned and ensure you are fully prepared for your big day.
JetZero does not sponsor visas for US positions unless specified. Only applicants with current work authorization will be considered.
At JetZero, we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally for employment & do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws, ordinance, or regulation.
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