What Is An Aerospace Engineer?
An aerospace engineer is a professional who designs, develops, tests, and helps manufacture aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They are responsible for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of these vehicles. Aerospace engineers use their knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, and structural analysis to create innovative solutions for the aerospace industry.
Aerospace Engineer Duties
The primary duties of an aerospace engineer include:
- Designing and developing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles
- Analyzing and testing designs to ensure they meet performance, safety, and cost requirements
- Identifying and solving problems that arise during the design, testing, and manufacturing processes
- Developing and implementing new technologies and materials to improve vehicle performance
- Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and industry best practices
- Collaborating with other engineers, technicians, and professionals on project teams
- Using specialized software and tools, such as computer-aided design (CAD) software, to create and analyze designs
Day In The Life of an Aerospace Engineer
A typical day for an aerospace engineer may involve:
- Reviewing project specifications and requirements
- Developing or modifying designs using CAD software
- Conducting simulations and analyses to test performance and identify potential problems
- Collaborating with colleagues to discuss design options and make decisions
- Writing reports and presenting findings to stakeholders
- Researching new technologies and materials that could improve vehicle performance
- Visiting manufacturing facilities or test sites to observe production or testing processes
Aerospace Engineer Work Schedule
Aerospace engineers typically work full-time, with many working more than 40 hours per week. They may be required to work overtime to meet project deadlines or solve urgent problems. The job may involve both office and manufacturing settings, as well as fieldwork at testing sites or launch facilities. Aerospace engineers may also travel to attend conferences or meetings with clients and colleagues.
Growth Of The Aerospace Engineer Career
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 3% growth rate for aerospace engineering jobs between 2019 and 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. The growth rate may be influenced by factors such as new developments in aircraft and spacecraft technology, defense spending, and increased interest in commercial space exploration.
Typical Aerospace Engineer Employers
Aerospace engineers are typically employed by:
- Aerospace product and parts manufacturers
- Engineering consulting firms
- Research and development organizations
- Government agencies, such as NASA and the Department of Defense
- Airlines and other transportation companies
- Universities and research institutions
Some aerospace engineers may also work as independent consultants or contractors.
How To Become An Aerospace Engineer
To become an aerospace engineer, you’ll typically need:
- A bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field, such as mechanical engineering or electrical engineering
- Strong knowledge of physics, mathematics, materials science, and computer science
- Proficiency in CAD and other relevant software
- Problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills
- Some positions, particularly those in the defense industry, may require U.S. citizenship and a security clearance
Some aerospace engineers may pursue advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctoral degree, to specialize in a particular area or pursue research and development opportunities.
Aerospace Engineer Salary Data
According to the BLS, the median annual wage for aerospace engineers in the United States was $118,610 in 2020. The lowest 10% earned less than $72,450, while the highest 10% earned more than $166,620. Aerospace engineers employed by the federal government typically earn higher wages than those in other industries.
Popular Colleges for Aerospace Engineers
Some popular colleges and universities offering aerospace engineering programs include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Stanford University
- University of Michigan
- Georgia Institute of Technology
Job Growth Projections And Forecast for Aerospace Engineers
As mentioned earlier, the BLS projects a 3% growth rate for aerospace engineering jobs between 2019 and 2029, with competition expected to be strong for some positions due to the number of qualified candidates. However, opportunities in emerging fields, such as commercial space exploration, unmanned aerial systems, and new aircraft technologies, may provide additional job prospects for aerospace engineers.
