Head of Test

What to expect

The Head of Test will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of testing for our eVTOL aircraft, including electric motors, batteries, flight control systems, and structural components. Reporting directly to the Chief Technology Officer (or VP of Engineering), this role will lead a multidisciplinary team of test engineers, pilots, and technicians to ensure our aircraft meet rigorous safety, performance, and regulatory standards (e.g., FAA, EASA).

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in aerospace testing, a strategic mindset, and hands-on experience with electric propulsion systems.

What you'll do

• Test Program Leadership:

  • Develop and execute comprehensive test strategies for eVTOL aircraft, covering ground, flight, and environmental testing.

  • Oversee testing of electric propulsion systems (motors, inverters, batteries), avionics, and airframe integrity under real-world and simulated conditions.

  • Define test objectives, success criteria, and timelines aligned with certification milestones and production schedules.

• Team Management:

  • Lead, mentor, and grow a team of test engineers, flight test pilots, and support staff, fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and excellence.  

  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams (design, manufacturing, systems engineering) to integrate test feedback into product development.

• Regulatory Compliance:

  • Ensure all testing adheres to aviation regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA Part 23, EASA SC-VTOL) and industry standards (e.g., ASTM, DO-160).

  • Prepare and submit test plans, reports, and data to certification authorities, collaborating with regulatory bodies to achieve Type Certification.

• Safety & Risk Management:

  • Establish and enforce safety protocols for all test operations, including high-risk flight tests and electric system stress testing.

  • Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies for propulsion failures, thermal runaway, and structural issues.

• Test Infrastructure:

  • Oversee the design, procurement, and maintenance of test facilities, including dynamometers, wind tunnels, simulators, and flight test ranges.

  • Manage budgets for test equipment, personnel, and external testing partnerships.

• Data Analysis & Reporting:

  • Direct the collection, analysis, and interpretation of test data to validate performance metrics (e.g., thrust-to-weight ratio, battery endurance, noise levels).

  • Provide actionable insights to engineering teams to optimize designs and resolve issues.

• Innovation:  

  • Stay ahead of industry trends in electric aerospace testing, incorporating advanced methodologies like digital twins, AI-driven simulations, and automated test systems.

  • Drive continuous improvement in test processes to accelerate development timelines.

What you'll bring

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred).

• Experience:  

  • Proven track record in flight testing, propulsion system validation, or electric vehicle testing (aerospace preferred).

  • Experience with eVTOL, UAVs, or electric aircraft development is highly desirable.

  • Familiarity with FAA/EASA certification processes and documentation.

• Technical Skills:

  • Deep knowledge of electric propulsion systems (motors, power electronics, battery management).

  • Expertise in test planning, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB).

  • Experience testing high-power-density electric motors (e.g., 100 kW–1 MW range).

  • Background in hybrid-electric propulsion or energy storage systems.

  • Understanding of aerodynamics, control systems, and structural testing.

  • Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams and manage complex, high-stakes projects.

  • Strong communication skills to interface with regulators, executives, and technical staff.

  • A willingness to travel to test sites and work in a fast-paced, start-up-like environment.

  • Passion for sustainable aviation and urban air mobility.

What can you expect from us?

We're on a mission. Where others see limits, we see opportunity, and we work at pace. Working at Vertical isn't your average role but for those seeking a challenge, a flexible, supportive organisation and an incredible team; working here is an opportunity to do the best work of your career.

Our approach promotes ingenuity and courage, while our environment builds success through diligence in safety and being open in the way we work. The only way we're going to assure the next chapter of aviation history is by working as a team, relentlessly, towards our goal. 

Our benefits

Our people matter - we're not going anywhere without them. Which is why our company benefits go beyond the essentials.

• 26 days holiday, plus bank holiday

• 5 extra days per year to buy (or sell)

• 5 extra days holiday when you get married or enter a civil partnership

• Additional 4% of your salary to spend on extra benefits

• Award-winning digital health and wellbeing service (Help@Hand)

• Company Share Scheme - open to every Vertical employee

• Company Pension Scheme - 5% and we match it

• Breakfast on us, every day

We may just be the hardest job you've ever had, but we're confident it will be the most rewarding. Join the team today and help us shape the future of Advanced Air Mobility.

Disclaimer Statement

We encourage you to apply even if you may not have all the experience listed in the advert. We recognise that talent comes in various forms and we are committed to providing opportunities that create an environment of growth, diversity, and inclusion for everyone. As part of our desire to review and make our processes fair, we may ask you questions related to these aspects during the application process. For more information on how we will use your data, see our Legal section.