Flight Test Engineering Graduate Assistant Program at the National Test Pilot School

Are you a recent engineering graduate considering launching your career towards the sky? Would you like to apply your problem solving skills at the forefront of the flight test industry? Look no further, the National Test Pilot School is searching for new applicants for its prestigious Flight Test Engineering Graduate Assistant (GA) program. Through this program, the selected candidate will learn the attributes and skills of a flight test engineer (FTE) by obtaining a Master of Science in Flight Test Engineering, completing the internationally recognized Professional Test Pilot School FTE curriculum, and gaining experience in a flight test environment while working with industry professionals from around the world. Recent graduates of this program have been handpicked by successful aerospace companies including Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, AeroTec, The Spaceship Company, World View, Icon Aircraft, Cirrus Aircraft, and Modern Technology Solutions Inc.

The selected candidate will attend academic lectures, partake in actual flight test laboratories as a flying FTE, analyze data and present findings. The lectures cover a wide range of subjects that include the evaluation of aircraft performance and flying qualities, modern flight controls, and avionics and aircraft weapons systems.

Graduate Assistants conduct research and development work while assisting NTPS instructors with course preparation and practical demonstrations. Tasks include the construction, design, and development of flight simulators, support for the NTPS Optionally Piloted Aircraft (OPA), data reduction for consultant projects from external NTPS customers, installation of aircraft instrumentation, control room support, and testing of emerging technologies. GAs are the backbone of the NTPS Experimental Aircraft Build club, currently working on the construction and flight test of a Vans RV-12 airplane.

The selected candidate will participate in the 3-year work-study program that includes a basic stipend, medical, vision, and dental benefits. To be selected, candidates must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited institution and be able to meet the requirements of an FAA Class II Medical. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is desired. This is an entry level position, no experience beyond a college degree is required. Interested parties should send Ms. Kayla Chamness (kchamness@ntps.edu) a copy of college transcript, resume, and a one-page essay describing your interest and career ambitions in flight testing no later than 4 March 2020.

Selections will be announced in mid to late March 2020.