Aerospace Engineer

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Work Tasks

AEROSPACE ENGINEERS research, design, develop, and test commercial and military aircraft, missiles, spacecraft, automobiles, and submarines, and oversee the manufacturing of these products. They develop new technologies for use in commercial aviation, defense systems, and space exploration. They may specialize in areas such as structural design, propulsion systems, flight mechanics, air space management, and production methods. Aerospace engineers who work with aircraft are called aeronautical engineers, and those who work with spacecraft are called astronautical engineers.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $87,500 average per year ($42.00 per hour)
• A medium occupation (78,400 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.0% per year)

Entry Requirements

A bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited engineering program is usually required for beginning AEROSPACE ENGINEERS. Graduate training is essential for engineering faculty positions. Many engineers obtain a master's degree to learn new technology, to broaden their education, and to enhance promotion opportunities.