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Find a Job You Really Want In
Yes, aerospace is an excellent career path. If you possess a passion for flying or working with aircraft, the aerospace industry offers a fulfilling opportunity for your professional journey. The sector has experienced significant growth in recent years, and with the continued rise in global travel demand, particularly post-pandemic, this industry is poised for ongoing expansion.
Careers in aerospace present numerous opportunities for advancement and diverse career paths. Many job openings in this field offer competitive salaries compared to other industries. The aerospace sector is an environment where you can enhance your skills while engaging in work that aligns with your interests.
Here are 10 great jobs in Aerospace:
The 8 Best-Paying Jobs in Aerospace
Individuals in aerospace can expect to find the highest salaries in engineering and scientific roles. Aerospace engineers are responsible for manufacturing and designing aircraft and related products, while scientists seek innovative methods to enhance development and ensure mission success. Here are some of the highest-paying jobs in the aerospace sector:
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Average Annual Salary: $94,000
Aerospace stress engineers play a crucial role in aircraft engineering. Their primary responsibility is to analyze stresses and strains in materials and structures when subjected to significant forces. This is vital for ensuring aircraft and rocket structures can endure high pressure from specific loads, safeguarding the craft’s safety.
Stress analysis is integral to the design process, ensuring that structures can withstand required loads and pressures. If these criteria are not met, the safety and clearance for flight are compromised.
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Average Annual Salary: $76,000
Spacecraft systems engineers are tasked with the design, construction, and testing of various aerospace equipment such as aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and satellites. They ensure that all subsystems work cohesively to meet safety and mission objectives.
These engineers engage throughout a spacecraft’s lifecycle, sometimes participating in deployment. Their technical expertise spans structural, electrical, thermal control, power, and communication systems.
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Average Annual Salary: $88,000
Flight test engineers are responsible for testing prototype aircraft or systems. They plan flight test phases and collaborate closely with instrumentation engineers to ensure proper sensor installation and data recording.
In some cases, flight test engineers may need to fly on the test aircraft, contributing their expertise to monitor various systems and develop monitoring techniques.
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Average Annual Salary: N/A
Astronomers study the universe and its components, often specializing in specific areas such as galaxies, stars, and planets. In aerospace, they play a critical role in mission success, utilizing ground-based equipment to gather data that informs mission teams.
Their research can lead to the development of innovative technologies and methodologies.
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Average Annual Salary: $104,000
Computer science is integral to aerospace, with many roles—especially at NASA—requiring a strong background in this field. Computer scientists engage in programming and simulations, which are increasingly essential for design testing.
Additionally, military applications for computer science include GPS technology and missile guidance systems, highlighting the demand for these skills in a variety of exciting career paths.
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Average Annual Salary: $72,000
Thermodynamics engineers apply principles of thermodynamics to enhance existing systems or develop new products. This role involves designing and testing aircraft or spacecraft while performing thermal analyses to ensure safety.
They may also be responsible for creating thermal management systems and other critical components.
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Average Annual Salary: $84,000
Aircraft design engineers create detailed designs for aircraft interiors and structures while ensuring compliance with safety standards and quality requirements. This role combines technical skills with creativity, often involving collaboration with clients on various aircraft types.
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Mission Specialist
Average Annual Salary: N/A
Mission specialists are NASA astronauts focused on specific mission aspects, such as medical experiments or technical tasks. They collaborate with pilots and flight engineers to execute mission plans.
Established in 1978, this role complements the astronaut team in achieving mission objectives effectively.
7 Entry-Level Jobs in Aerospace
Many aerospace careers necessitate a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, with entry-level positions requiring a solid educational background. Here are seven entry-level jobs in aerospace:
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Average Annual Salary: $53,000
Aircraft mechanics oversee maintenance, inspections, and repairs on aircraft, ensuring their safety and airworthiness. They must be federally certified and undergo extensive training.
Mechanics are responsible for maintaining aircraft logs, organizing tools, and collaborating with teams to ensure operational readiness.
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Average Annual Salary: $60,000
Flight operations specialists assist with administrative functions to maintain aircraft operations. They prepare schedules, manage aircrew training, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Successful specialists are organized, computer-savvy, and have a genuine interest in aviation.
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Average Annual Salary: $86,000
Aerodynamicists focus on validating the safety and feasibility of new designs. They conduct research and testing on aircraft and spacecraft, collaborating with engineering teams on various projects.
They often lead wind tunnel tests and contribute to engineering tasks during production.
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Average Annual Salary: $44,000
Aircraft technicians maintain and repair various aircraft, including commercial and military models. Their responsibilities include diagnosing mechanical issues and performing routine maintenance.
Technicians must fulfill educational and licensing requirements, along with practical training.
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Entry-Level Aerospace Engineer
Average Annual Salary: N/A
Entry-level aerospace engineers work alongside senior engineers to design and develop aircraft or spacecraft. Their tasks may include troubleshooting and supporting safety and environmental compliance.
Positions are available in both public and private sectors, providing a robust entry point into the field.
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Teletypist
Average Annual Salary: N/A
Teletypists operate teletype systems to communicate messages between ground personnel and aircraft. This position requires fast typing and knowledge of communication codes.
Teletypists typically work indoors, often enjoying standard working hours in an airport or operations office.
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Ground Radio Operator
Average Annual Salary: N/A
Ground radio operators provide communication services to aircraft using air-ground radiotelephone technology. They ensure safe operations and effective communication with airborne crafts.
Attention to detail and strong communication skills are essential for this role.
Why Choose a Career in Aerospace?
Aerospace is an ideal field for individuals passionate about math, science, and problem-solving. Here are compelling reasons to consider a career in aerospace:
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Lucrative pay. The high level of skill and responsibility in aerospace careers often translates to attractive compensation packages.
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Rewarding career. Professionals in aerospace contribute significantly to the global economy, making this field highly rewarding.
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Job security. With travel demand expected to grow, job security in the aerospace industry remains strong.
Education and Certification Requirements for a Career in Aerospace
Building a career in aerospace requires dedication and education. Here are essential steps to prepare for a career in this field:
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Take advanced high school classes in math and science. Focus on courses such as trigonometry, physics, computer programming, and chemistry to build a strong foundation.
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Earn your bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. Most aerospace positions require at least a bachelor’s degree from an ABET-accredited institution.
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Obtain internship, apprenticeship, or co-op experience. Practical experience can enhance your employability and success in the aerospace industry.
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Consider a graduate degree in aerospace engineering. While not always necessary, a graduate degree can set you apart in a competitive job market.
What Do People Working in Aerospace Do?
Aerospace professionals work independently or collaboratively to research, design, and develop vehicles and systems for both atmospheric and space environments. Mathematics and science underpin most tasks in this field, which encompasses three main branches: engineers, technicians, and scientists.
Engineers are responsible for making systems function effectively, while technicians support engineers and scientists in their work. Scientists explore fundamental questions and expand our understanding of aerospace phenomena.
- Technology
- Jobs Available In EDP Services
- Jobs Available In Computer Software Prepackaged Software
- Is Telecommunications Equipment A Good Career Path
- Is Aerospace A Good Career Path
- Is Electrical Products A Good Career Path
- Is Biotechnology Laboratory Analytical Instruments A Good Career Path
- Is Broadcasting A Good Career Path
- Jobs Available In Telecommunications Equipment
Author
Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.
