Aerospace Engineering Technician

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Work Tasks

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING TECHNICIANS use the principles and theories of science, engineering, and mathematics to solve technical problems in research and development, manufacturing, sales, construction, and maintenance. Aerospace engineering technicians assist engineers and scientists who design and build systems for testing aircraft and space vehicles. In manufacturing they assist in product design, development, and production. They use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and prepare layouts and models of structures and control systems. Many technicians work as manufacturer's service representatives. Some technicians prepare technical information for manuals and catalogs.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $54,500 average per year ($26.25 per hour)
• A small occupation (8,500 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.2% per year)

Entry Requirements

Most employers prefer to hire AEROSPACE ENGINEERING TECHNICIANS with a 2-year associate degree in engineering technology. Training is available at technical schools, junior and community colleges, extension divisions of colleges and universities, public and private vocational-technical schools, and through some technical training programs in the armed forces. Graduates of programs accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) are generally recognized to have achieved an acceptable level of competence in the mathematics, science, and technical courses required for this occupation. No licensing or certification is required for aerospace engineering technicians.