Aerospace Engineer

Answer 1

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, missiles, and spaceships. Because the specialties of aerospace engineers vary greatly, a wide range of job opportunities are available in the private and government sectors. In the government sector, aerospace engineers develop and test new military aircraft, defense technology, rockets, and related guidance systems. The majority of aerospace engineers are employed by the private sector where they develop and improve civilian aircraft and flight equipment.

Careers as an Aerospace Engineer

In addition to research and development, aerospace engineers are instrumental to the manufacture, production, quality control, and testing of aircraft and missiles. The fields of aeronautical (aircraft) and astronautical (spacecraft) engineering are both included under the umbrella of term of aerospace engineering. Depending on job duties, aerospace engineers may work in office buildings, manufacturing plants, laboratories, or on outdoor test sites. To analyze test data, develop new designs, and execute complex mathematical formulas, aerospace engineers must have advanced computer skills in addition to strong understanding of science and math.

Aerospace Engineer Training

Most employers require a bachelor’s degree for entry-level aerospace engineering careers. Mechanical engineering is one of the most popular degrees for students who go on to careers in the aerospace industry. Aerospace certificates are also awarded by some universities for students who complete advanced aerodynamics, thermodynamics, propulsion, and aerospace classes in their senior year. After completing a four-year engineering degree, students can apply for an entry-level engineering position or continue their studies at the graduate or doctorate level for a Master of Engineering or PhD degree. Careers in aerospace space engineering do not require a professional license or state certification due to an industrial exemption. However, some jobs do require a government security clearance.

Average Earnings for Aerospace Engineers

Because engineers undergo extensive education, entry-level positions in aerospace are amongst the highest paying compared to all college degrees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, aerospace engineers in entry-level positions earned more than $59,000 annually. In 2009, the median annual salary for aerospace engineers was $94,000 with many of the highest-paid workers earning more than $100,000. Over the next decade, careers in aerospace engineering are projected to grow by 10% or 7,000 new positions.