Aerospace Engineers

Career summary

#no alternate titles or additions from 2412 Aerospace Engineers

Aerospace engineers may specialize in the following areas:

• Structural design
• Guidance systems
• Navigation and control
• Instrumentation
• Production methods

They may also specialize in one type of aerospace craft such as:

• Rockets
• Satellites
• Jets
• Helicopters

Aerospace engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) systems to design, test, and modify aircraft and spacecraft. When a design is complete, engineers develop a model or prototype.

To test, aerospace engineers conduct operational, environmental, or stress tests. They compare the results with industry standards, environmental laws, and customer needs. They may change designs to improve speed or reduce pollution.

They estimate cost, environmental impact, and time needed to complete the project. Engineers may also manage production of the aircraft or spacecraft.

They write handbooks to explain the equipment and troubleshoot equipment problems. They also write reports and keep detailed records.

There are two types of aerospace engineers. Aeronautical engineers work on aircraft that stay inside the Earth's atmosphere. Astronautical engineers work on spacecraft that travel outside the Earth's atmosphere.

Some engineers create new products or systems to reduce the impact of aircraft on the environment. For example, they test biofuels for use in aircraft engines. They may also invent new materials to reduce weight and fuel use.

Related careers

This career is part of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Astronauts
• Chemical Engineers
• Computer and Information Research Scientists
• Computer Engineers
• Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• Fuel Cell Engineers
• Industrial Engineers
• Materials Engineers
• Mechanical Engineers
• Nuclear Engineers
• Photonics Engineers
• Robotics Engineers
• Validation Engineers

Military careers

• Aerospace Engineers

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to aerospace engineers.

• Design aeronautical or aerospace products or systems.
• Direct and coordinate activities of the teams that design and make aerospace products.
• Plan and coordinate research of customers' problems with aircraft or aerospace vehicles.
• Plan and conduct tests on models of aircraft and aerospace systems and equipment.
• Test new aircraft building materials for quality and environmental impact.
• Develop design plans for products or systems. This includes ways to reduce pollution, determine testing methods, and meet quality standards.
• Create new designs and products to meet environmental standards and laws.
• Evaluate product inspections and reports.
• Review performance reports and test documents. Inspect products for damage, mechanical problems, and environmental impact.
• Design filters to reduce aircraft engine pollution.
• Test biofuels for use in aircraft.
• Use computers to create, test, and change designs.
• Write technical reports and memos for staff, customers, and management.
• Analyze project plans and engineering data to decide if building a project is possible. They look at the cost, the environmental impact, and the time needed to build the project.
• Direct programs that reduce pollution, improve production methods, and technology.
• Evaluate and approve the companies that will make the products or systems.
• Maintain records of performance reports for future reference.

Common work activities

Aerospace engineers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Process information
• Analyze data or information
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Get information needed to do the job
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Document and record information
• Think creatively
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Evaluate information against standards
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Provide advice and consultation to others
• Teach others
• Provide information or drawings about devices, equipment, or structures
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Schedule work and activities
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Develop goals and strategies

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, aerospace engineers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a medium to high level of social contact.
• Communicate with coworkers and customers daily by phone, e-mail, and in person.
• Work on teams with other engineers.
• Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety and work outcomes of people on their design teams.
• Write letters and memos monthly.
• Occasionally are placed in conflict situations.

Physical work conditions

• Usually work indoors. They may sometimes work in places with heating or cooling, such as a warehouse.
• Are sometimes exposed to loud sounds and noise levels that are uncomfortable. Ear protection is worn when needed.
• May wear other protective gear as necessary.
• Usually share office space with other workers.

Work performance

• Must be very exact in performing their job. Designs often include very tiny measurements.
• Rarely consult a supervisor before making decisions. They are free to set most goals and priorities on their own.
• Meet strict deadlines weekly.
• Work in an environment that is moderately competitive.
• Make decisions weekly that have major effects on the company, customer, and coworkers.
• Repeat the same mental tasks.

Hours/travel

• Usually work a regular 40-hour week.
• May travel to other work sites. They may also travel to visit manufacturers.

Physical demands

Aerospace engineers frequently:

• Sit for long periods of time.

It is important for aerospace engineers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for aerospace engineers to be able to:

• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Determine the distance between objects.

Skills and abilities

Aerospace engineers need to:

Communicate

• Understand written information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Understand spoken information.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.
• Identify what must be changed to reach goals.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.
• Think of original, unusual, or creative ways to solve problems.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.

Use math and science

• Use scientific methods to solve problems.
• Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.
• Use math skills to solve problems.
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and correctly.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Use several methods to learn or teach new things.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.
• Persuade others to approach things differently.
• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.
• Teach others how to do something.
• Solve problems by bringing others together to discuss differences.

Work with things

• Analyze needs and requirements when designing products.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Design equipment and technology to meet user needs.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Other programs of study to consider

• Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering Technology
• Applied Mathematics
• Astrophysics
• Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
• Engineering Physics
• Engineering, General
• Pre-Engineering

Training

To work as an aerospace engineer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree in engineering; and
• have a license.

Education after high school

Most students prepare for this field by earning a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. However, you can also prepare for this field by majoring in mechanical engineering. Many four-year colleges and universities offer these programs. Many students need between four and five years to complete their studies.

In a typical engineering program you take courses in math, basic science, introductory engineering, and social science. In the last two years, you specialize in aerospace engineering. Courses include aerospace structures and design, flight mechanics, propulsion, and aerodynamics.

Work experience

Internships are usually a part of a four-year degree program. They offer you a chance to apply what you learned in the classroom to a work situation. They also allow you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field. Internships improve your chances of finding a job.

On-the-job training

In general, aerospace engineers receive one to two years of on-the-job training. New graduates work under the guidance of experienced engineers. In large companies, you may also receive formal classroom training. As you gain knowledge and experience you have greater independence and receive more difficult tasks.

Military training

The military does not provide initial training in this field. However, the military may provide work experience to aerospace engineering graduates.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum  may be different from your state's graduation requirements . Engineers use math and science frequently. Try to take math classes through Trigonometry and science classes through Physics.

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Applications
• Computer-Assisted Design (CAD)
• Computer Science
• Probability and Statistics

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

For entry-level jobs, most employers prefer to hire applicants who have a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering. When employers are having difficulty hiring, they may hire engineers who have been trained in other areas. For some positions, employers may hire college graduates with degrees in mechanical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or mathematics.

Employers may require a master's degree or higher for research, consulting, and managerial jobs.

Employers prefer to hire aerospace engineers who are creative and curious. They also look for people who are detail-oriented and analytical. Oral and written communication skills are also important. Employers look for people who can work on a team.

Some employers require a security clearance before hiring prospective employees.

Tips

Opportunities are best for those willing to relocate, not only in Washington, but also nationally. College "cooperative education" programs, where the student alternates industry employment with academic studies, may be helpful. Knowledge of aircraft structures and different methods of analysis is helpful.

Costs to workers

Some workers may wish to join a professional association, which may have annual dues.

Licensing/certification

Engineers employed in responsible positions in government or in firms offering services to the public, or who stamp their work as being done by an engineer, must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing.

Getting a license as an engineer-in-training requires:

• either senior standing at or an engineering degree from a school approved by the Accrediting Board for Engineering Technology (ABET), or four years of practice in engineering working under a licensed engineer, or a combination of education and work experience; and
• passing a written exam.

Professional engineer licensing requirements include:

• completion of the engineer-in-training requirements;
• four additional years of active practice in engineering working under a licensed engineer or a combination of work experience and education; and
• passing a written exam.

Engineers who want to be licensed must pay an exam fee to the National Council of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors and a $65 fee for the initial state exam application. After licensing, a renewal fee of $116 is due every two years. Not all engineers in Washington must be licensed.

For information on testing, contact:

National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying 
PO Box 1686
Clemson, SC 29633-1686
800.250.3196

For licensing information, contact:

Washington State Department of Licensing
Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and
Land Surveyors Licensing Program 
PO Box 9025
Olympia, WA 98507-9025
360.664.1575

#OK & updated fees, 2/27/09 lh. Checked lic info 2/1/10 & 2/1/12 cj. Checked section; updated NCEES fee for PE exam to $350 & state renewal to $116, 1/31/14 cj.Licensing section ok, 1/27/16 cj. lh 1/18/17. Checked licensing info & found no changes; checked NCEES Examinee Guide & website for exam fees; Chemical & Nuclear PE exams only are now computer-based & cost $375; all other PE's exams are being transitioned from paper to computer-based and are still $350; couldn't find Engineer-in-Training $30 licensing fee so deleted it , 1/30/18 cj.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Aerospace Engineers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages vary by employer. For example, engineers who work for aircraft manufacturers generally earn more than those who work for the federal government or for guided missile manufacturers. Engineers with more experience earn more than those who are just starting out. Those with a PhD earn more than those with a master's or bachelor's degree.

Most engineers who work full time also earn benefits. Typical benefits include health insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and a retirement plan.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

Washington outlook for aerospace engineers depends on economic conditions, technological developments, the demand for new aircraft, and the supply of new engineers entering the labor force. The outlook for aerospace engineers also depends heavily on defense and space research spending and the number of engineering jobs retained in this state by aerospace companies.

Most job openings that occur will be due to workers who retire or switch occupations.

#Boeing Moving 1,000 More Jobs to California, by Dominic Gates, Seattle Times, April 10, 2014.

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

About half of all aerospace engineers work in manufacturing. States with large aerospace manufacturers employ the most aerospace engineers. Some of those states are California, Washington, Texas, and Florida.

Major employers:

• Aerospace product and part manufacturers
• Architectural and engineering services
• Research and development companies

National outlook

Employment of aerospace engineers is expected to grow. Improvements in technology will increase the need for research and projects related to increasing fuel efficiency and increasing safety in flight aircraft.

However, there are a limited number of positions available so competition will be strong. Those with software experience and a background in stress or structural engineering will have the best prospects.

Other resources

Aerospace Industries Association 
1000 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 1700
Arlington, VA 22209
703.358.1000

American Association for the Advancement of Science 
1200 New York Ave, NW
Washington,DC20005

American Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) 
(This website provides a list of engineering-related programs accredited by ABET)
415 North Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
410.347.7700

American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics 
12700 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 200
Reston, VA 20191
800.639.2422
703.264.7500

Careers in Space: A Universe of Options 

Discover Engineering 

eGFI - Dream Up the Future 

Engineer Girl! 
National Academy of Engineering

Engineering & Science Career Videos 

Engineering Your Future 

Federal Aviation Administration 
800 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20591
866.835.5322

IEEE Computer Society 
2001 L Street NW, Suite 700
Washington, DC 20036
202.371.0101

National Academy of Engineering 
500 Fifth Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
202.334.3200

National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA) 
206.433.0991

Society of Women Engineers 
130 East Randolph Street, Suite 3500
Chicago, IL 60601
877.793.4636

Technology Student Association 
1904 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191-1540
888.860.9010

Washington State Science & Engineering Fair 

Your're a What? Rocket Scientist 
Bureau of Labor Statistics Career Ourlook

References

Career cluster

• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

Career path

• Investigative (Science)

O*Net  occupation

• Aerospace Engineers (17-2011.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed. A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Aerodynamicist (002.061-010) 
• Aeronautical Engineer (002.061-014) 
• Aeronautical Project Engineer (002.167-018) 
• Aeronautical Test Engineer (002.061-018) 
• Aeronautical-design Engineer (002.061-022) 
• Aeronautical-research Engineer (002.061-026) 
• Field-service Engineer (002.167-014) 
• Stress Analyst (002.061-030) 
• Value Engineer (002.167-010) 

Strong Interest Inventory

• Engineer

Holland occupational cluster

• Investigative/Realistic/Artistic

COPSystem

• Technology Professional