Aerospace engineers design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They develop new technologies for use in aviation, defense systems, and space exploration. Job duties typically include testing prototypes to ensure they function according to design, analyzing designs to improve performance and safety, and overseeing the manufacturing process. Aerospace engineers often work in research and development, manufacturing, government agencies, or for aerospace companies.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $83,760.00 |
25th percentile | $103,220.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $128,690.00 |
75th percentile | $143,290.00 |
90th percentile | $178,070.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $40.27 |
25th percentile | $49.63 |
median (50th percentile) | $61.87 |
75th percentile | $68.89 |
90th percentile | $85.61 |
Aerospace engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field, such as mechanical engineering or aviation. Some positions may require a graduate degree, particularly for advanced research or leadership roles. High school graduation is necessary to pursue post-secondary education and ultimately work as an aerospace engineer. In terms of training, aerospace engineers often receive on-the-job training to become familiar with specific tools, software, and processes used in the industry. This training may include orientation sessions, mentorship programs, and ongoing professional development to stay current with advancements in the field. Additionally, engineers may need to obtain relevant certifications to demonstrate their expertise in specialized areas within aerospace engineering.