Application Guide
How to Apply for Flight Research Senior Remote Pilot
at Joby Aviation
🏢 About Joby Aviation
Joby Aviation is pioneering eco-friendly electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to revolutionize urban mobility with quiet, fast, and sustainable air travel. Unlike traditional aerospace companies, Joby focuses specifically on electric aviation technology that's designed for daily commuting, positioning them at the forefront of the emerging air taxi industry. Working here means contributing directly to transforming how people move while advancing clean energy transportation solutions.
About This Role
As a Flight Research Senior Remote Pilot at Joby Aviation, you'll serve as remote pilot in command for the Iris project, operating large unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) within the National Airspace System while developing and implementing flight procedures. This role combines hands-on flight operations with leadership responsibilities, potentially managing projects or teams to advance Joby's eVTOL testing and certification efforts. Your work directly impacts the safety and success of flight testing for aircraft that could redefine urban transportation.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day involves preparing flight plans and procedures for the Iris project's UAS operations, conducting pre-flight checks and briefings remotely, then executing flight tests as remote pilot in command while monitoring aircraft systems from the ground control station. You'll collaborate with the Flight Test Lead to analyze data, refine procedures, and potentially mentor junior pilots, all while ensuring strict compliance with aviation regulations and safety protocols for large unmanned aircraft operations.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Joby Aviation Is Looking For
- Holds a current FAA Part 61 certificate with instrument rating (or immediate ability to obtain one) and demonstrates exceptional 'stick skills' operating medium to large UAS from purpose-built ground control stations
- Has experience leading flight test operations or managing aviation projects, with proven ability to develop and uphold procedures in collaboration with flight test leadership
- Possesses specific training on UAS systems rather than just general piloting skills, indicating deep technical understanding of unmanned aircraft operations
- Shows adaptability to remote work while maintaining rigorous aviation standards, with interest in electric aviation and Joby's mission of sustainable air mobility
📝 Tips for Applying to Joby Aviation
Quantify your UAS experience by specifying exact aircraft sizes/weights you've operated and the types of ground control stations you're proficient with
Explicitly mention your FAA Part 61 certificate status and instrument rating (or timeline for obtaining it) in your resume summary
Highlight any experience with electric aircraft, eVTOL technology, or sustainable aviation projects to align with Joby's mission
Describe specific procedures you've developed or improved in previous flight test roles, not just your operational experience
Include examples of leading aviation projects or mentoring other pilots, even if not in a formal management title
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Demonstrate understanding of Joby's specific technology (eVTOL aircraft) and mission to transform urban mobility with electric aviation", 'Provide concrete examples of developing flight procedures or leading flight test operations, particularly for large UAS in complex airspace', 'Highlight your instrument rating status and experience operating from purpose-built ground control stations', 'Connect your background to the Iris project specifically, showing how your skills would contribute to this testing initiative']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Joby's specific aircraft technology (particularly their eVTOL design and the Iris project mentioned in the job description)
- → Joby's FAA certification progress and partnerships with NASA or other aviation organizations
- → The company's recent flight test milestones and public demonstrations of their aircraft
- → Joby's urban air mobility vision and how it differs from competitors like Archer, Wisk, or Beta Technologies
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with only small drone or recreational UAS experience when the role requires medium to large UAS operation from professional ground stations
- Failing to address your FAA Part 61 certificate status or instrument rating qualifications clearly in application materials
- Focusing only on piloting skills without demonstrating experience developing procedures, leading projects, or collaborating with flight test teams
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!