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Lockheed’s Skunk Works Seeks U-2 Test Pilot in Palmdale

The rare opening signals ongoing classified flight testing on the Dragon Lady despite retirement talk.

Overview

  • Lockheed Martin posted a Skunk Works role in Palmdale for an on-site U-2 pilot focused on test operations that require an active Top Secret clearance.
  • Duties listed include engineering flight tests, production-acceptance sorties, checks to confirm compliance, cockpit configuration approvals, and possible demonstration flights for officials.
  • Required qualifications include current FAA Class I or II medical, a commercial multi-engine and instrument certificate or ATP, and no more than two years since U-2S qualification, with Test Pilot School and 1,000 pilot-in-command hours preferred.
  • The posting outlines a four 10-hour day schedule with relocation possible and sets a California pay range of roughly $156,400 to $311,650 depending on location and experience.
  • Coverage notes conflicting application-window language, with one outlet citing a May 15 deadline and another quoting a 90-day window, and SFGATE says Lockheed did not provide further comment.