Job Summary

The Executive Director of Flight Test is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of flight test planning, execution, and data analysis for both engineering and production flight test operations. This individual will manage cross-functional teams, ensure compliance with regulatory and safety standards, and drive innovation to deliver reliable and efficient flight test programs. The role requires a deep understanding of flight-testing methodologies, program management, and a strong technical and strategic mindset.

This position is located at our Headquarters in Duluth MN. 

Duties and Responsibilities/Essential Functions

Develop and implement the strategic vision for the flight test organization. Align flight test goals with broader organizational objectives, including certification timelines, product development, and innovation targets. Ensure safe engineering and production flight test operations through regular training (flight and non-flight) and safety initiatives. Oversee the planning and execution of all flight test programs, ensuring they are on schedule, within budget, and meet technical objectives Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and regulatory teams to integrate flight test results into product development. Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team, including test pilots, engineers, technicians, and support staff. Foster a culture of collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement. Ensure all flight test operations comply with regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, EASA, or other applicable authorities). Ensure that production flight test operations support production goals and adhere to production operations and quality practices. Establish and enforce safety protocols to minimize risks during test operations. Provide technical guidance on test methodologies, instrumentation, and data analysis. Evaluate and approve test plans, including objectives, procedures, and risk assessments. Communicate flight test progress, risks, and outcomes to senior leadership, external stakeholders, and regulatory agencies. Represent the organization in industry forums, conferences, and regulatory engagements. Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency, data accuracy, and overall program performance. Leverage new technologies, tools, and methodologies to advance the organization’s flight-testing capabilities. 

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace (preferred) or mechanical engineering Master’s degree preferred Minimum of 15 years of experience in the aerospace industry, with at least 5 years in flight testing or related fields. Demonstrated leadership experience minimum 10 years. Leadership experience required; formal training strongly preferred. Ability to demonstrate sound judgement and effective communication skills (written and verbal). Ability to effectively manage stress, including competing work demands and multiple projects at the same time. Proven track record of leading large-scale flight test programs for aircraft development or certification. Experience managing multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced, technical environment. Deep understanding of flight-testing principles, instrumentation, and regulatory frameworks. 

Competencies

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: 

Business Insight Interpersonal Savvy Courage Builds Networks Attracts Top Talent Action Oriented 

Certifications:

FAA Commercial Pilot License (CPL) 

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.  Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required.  Travel requirements of up to 10% may be required.

OUR BENEFITS Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including: 

401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting. Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance. Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options. Free Health Tracking: With rewards for meeting health goals. Generous PTO: 240 hours accrued within the first year. Employee Referral Bonus: For referring talented candidates. Career Development: Tuition reimbursement and professional growth opportunities. Exclusive Discounts: Access to partner and marketplace discounts. Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations.

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!  

LIFE AT CIRRUS
Cirrus is dedicated to advancing general aviation as a leading manufacturer of personal aircraft. The Cirrus Flying Club offers employees and their family members the unique opportunity to obtain their private pilot’s license in the comfort of a Cirrus or rent a Cirrus for an impromptu adventure at a greatly reduced rate. 

At Cirrus, we are committed to investing in the future of our employees and company by offering professional development and career progression opportunities that include onboarding, recurrent and area-specific training, talent acceleration and leadership development, continuing education, and tuition assistance programs. 

We also engage employees by offering several employee and family events throughout the year and the opportunity to participate in activity clubs and community events. From holiday and special occasion celebrations to local runs and barbecues, our team has the opportunity to connect with each other, the community, and our customers.  

OF NOTE

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.  Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required. 

Cirrus is dedicated to a drug free work environment promoting equal employment opportunity.  Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.