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Want to know more about careers in science? Browse through detailed information on dozens of careers to discover what scientists, engineers, and other STEM professionals really do and what it takes to prepare for these careers. Each career profile provides basic career information such as salary, job outlook, degree requirements, and more. We have also included videos featuring interviews with real scientists or on-the-job profiles.

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Over 100 career profiles to help students explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.

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Are you interested in airplanes? Do you like to build things? How about a career designing, building, and testing aircraft? Imagine creating the next commercial airliner, designed for carrying hundreds of passengers. Or working on the fastest, stealthiest military plane. These are two projects an aerospace engineer might work on.
An aerospace engineer designs and develops aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They use principles of physics and materials science to create and test prototypes, analyze data, and make improvements. Aerospace engineers work in a variety of industries, including government agencies, defense contractors, and commercial airlines.
They must have strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team. A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field is typically required for entry-level positions.

Aerospace Engineer Facts for Kids

Aerospace engineers design planes and spacecraft.

They use physics and maths a lot.

Some specialize in airplanes (aeronautics).

Others focus on rockets (astronautics).

They create and test prototypes.

They work on improving flight safety.

They solve problems in-flight systems.

They may work on satellites too.

Their work helps explore space.

Aerospace engineering began in the 19th century.

Aeronautics and Astronautics

Aerospace engineering consists of two main branches: aeronautics and astronautics. Aeronautics involves designing, building, and testing aircraft like airplanes and helicopters, while astronautics deals with spacecraft for outer space exploration.

Kids interested in this field can learn about flying machines, rockets, and robots for planetary study. This career requires math, science, and technology to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions for efficient travel through the skies and beyond.

Avionics

Avionics focuses on designing, developing, and implementing electronic systems in aircraft, satellites, and spacecraft. It combines technology and flying, making it an ideal field for kids who love both. Aerospace engineers create advanced communication, navigation, and control systems for pilots and astronauts.

They develop instruments like autopilot, radar, and GPS for smooth flights. Avionics engineers improve air travel safety and promote space exploration, making it an exciting career for those who dream of soaring in the skies or venturing into the universe.

Propulsion Engineering

Propulsion engineering is a branch of aerospace engineering focusing on designing engines and systems for aircraft and spacecraft. This field attracts children's interest as engineers work on various projects, from fuel-efficient airplane engines to powerful rocket engines for space travel.

These engineers apply physics, chemistry, and materials science knowledge to develop innovative propulsion technologies, enabling faster, higher, and farther flights. Notable propulsion engineering achievements include commercial airplane jet engines and the Saturn V rocket engines used in Apollo missions. Propulsion engineers significantly contribute to these remarkable engineering feats.

Flight Dynamics

Did you know that aerospace engineers play a crucial role in understanding and designing the flight dynamics of airplanes, helicopters, and spacecraft? Flight dynamics is the science of how objects like aircraft and rockets move through the air and space. Aerospace engineers need to take into account factors such as lift, drag, thrust, and weight to ensure these flying machines can soar safely and efficiently.

They use their knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion, and control systems to create and test new designs and improve existing ones. These engineers also develop advanced technology and devices to help pilots navigate and control their aircraft more accurately. So, the next time you see an airplane flying high in the sky, remember that aerospace engineers have worked hard to make that flight possible!

Space Systems Engineering

Aerospace engineering focuses on designing and building machines that can fly within Earth's atmosphere and outer space. For kids interested in space systems engineering, a branch of aerospace engineering, this involves working on advanced technologies for space exploration and travel. These engineers develop spacecraft, satellites, and space stations.

They also create systems to communicate with astronauts or control interplanetary robots. By studying physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, space systems engineers help explore the universe and unlock mysteries of outer space. Their innovative work allows us to learn more about our solar system, discover distant galaxies, and potentially live on other planets.

Structural Analysis

Aerospace engineers are vital in designing and building aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites for extreme conditions. They focus on structural analysis, examining the materials and components of these vehicles. Using advanced tools and techniques, they ensure safety and reliability through testing and analysis. This enables humans to explore the skies and space.

Aircraft Design

Aerospace engineers play a crucial role in aircraft design. They use their knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to create amazing flying machines! Aerospace engineers study aerodynamics and use computer programs to design aircraft that can fly higher, faster, and more efficiently.

They also ensure these flying machines are safe for passengers by conducting tests and improving their designs. From massive jumbo jets to tiny unmanned drones, aerospace engineers are the creative minds behind the incredible technology that makes flight possible.

Aerodynamics

Aerodynamics is a field in aerospace engineering that focuses on air movement around objects like airplanes and rockets. Engineers use physics, math, and fluid mechanics to design and improve these flying machines' shapes and structures.

They also work on understanding and reducing air resistance. Thanks to their work, airplanes, and rockets can travel with speed and efficiency. So when you see an airplane or rocket in action, remember that aerodynamics and aerospace engineers play a vital role in making it possible!

Materials Science in Aerospace

Materials science is vital in aerospace engineering, teaching kids the significance of selecting the appropriate materials for constructing aircraft and spacecraft. For instance, aluminum alloys are often used due to their lightweight, strength, and corrosion resistance. Recently, advanced materials such as carbon fiber composites and ceramic matrix composites have been developed, offering lighter and stronger options.

These materials allow engineers to create more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly aircraft. Furthermore, materials science is necessary for developing heat-resistant materials for spacecraft re-entry, as they need to endure extreme temperatures. Kids interested in aerospace engineering should recognize the importance and excitement of materials science, as it drives innovation and contributes to cutting-edge aerospace technologies.

Control Systems

Aerospace engineers play a crucial role in designing and creating advanced control systems for various aircraft and spacecraft. These control systems are essential for understanding, as they help ensure the safe and efficient operation of flying machines.

In simple terms, control systems are like the brains of an airplane or a rocket, helping the pilot or autopilot maintain a steady course. Aerospace engineers work with complex mathematical models, computer simulations, and cutting-edge technology to develop these systems. They must consider factors like aerodynamics, propulsion, and stability to create control systems that can respond to changing conditions in the air or in space.

For aspiring engineers, learning about aerospace control systems can inspire them to dream big and reach for the stars.
Fun Facts

Aerospace engineers work on airplanes, space shuttles, satellites, and even missiles. They need advanced training in mathematics and physics. Aerospace engineering is one of the most challenging engineering fields.

In addition to designing and engineering aircraft, engineers must test the crafts for safety. Simulations with small models allow engineers to evaluate a design's potential flaws.

Aerospace engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in aeronautics engineering or a similar field. Thirty percent of aerospace engineers have a master's degree.

Aerospace engineers earn an average of $58.00 per hour, higher than most fields. Annually, engineers can expect to earn between $73,000 and $143,000, depending on their experience and education.

Jobs are limited for this field since the air and space industry is a small one. Companies like Boeing need only a few airplanes designed.

Aerospace engineers usually work for the federal government or manufacturing industries. A few work for NASA. Engineers generally work in an office environment.

Questions and Answers
Question: What should I do if I think I want to become an aerospace engineer?

Answer: If you think you might like to be an engineer, start learning about science and math now. Have fun building projects and learning to think critically. When you get to high school, take every science and math class offered, as well as some business classes.
Learn More
Visit Jobs in Aviation to learn more about being an aerospace engineer.

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These are two projects an aerospace engineer might work on, creating the commercial airliner or working on the fastest, stealthiest military plane.

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Operate, install, calibrate, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data.

Sample of reported job titles: Avionics Installation Technician, Avionics Technician, Avionics Test Technician, Electronics Technician, Engineering Technician, Engineering Test Technician, Flight Test Instrument Technician, Instrumentation Technician, Systems Test Technician, Test Technician

Tasks | Technology Skills | Tools Used | Knowledge | Skills | Abilities | Work Activities | Detailed Work Activities | Work Context | Job Zone | Education | Credentials | Interests | Work Styles | Work Values | Related Occupations | Wages & Employment | Job Openings | Additional Information

Tasks

Test aircraft systems under simulated operational conditions, performing systems readiness tests and pre- and post-operational checkouts, to establish design or fabrication parameters.

Identify required data, data acquisition plans, and test parameters, setting up equipment to conform to these specifications.

Inspect, diagnose, maintain, and operate test setups and equipment to detect malfunctions.

Confer with engineering personnel regarding details and implications of test procedures and results.

Operate and calibrate computer systems and devices to comply with test requirements and to perform data acquisition and analysis.

Record and interpret test data on parts, assemblies, and mechanisms.

Adjust, repair, or replace faulty components of test setups and equipment.

Fabricate and install parts and systems to be tested in test equipment, using hand tools, power tools, and test instruments.

Finish vehicle instrumentation and deinstrumentation.

Construct and maintain test facilities for aircraft parts and systems, according to specifications.

Design electrical and mechanical systems for avionic instrumentation applications.

Job Zone

Title

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Education

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Related Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Job Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Job Zone Examples

These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, travel guides, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters, and medical assistants.

Wages & Employment Trends

Median wage data for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2019 wage data and 2018-2028 employment projections . "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2018-2028). "Projected job openings" represent openings due to growth and replacement.

Sources of Additional Information

Disclaimer: Sources are listed to provide additional information on related jobs, specialties, and/or industries. Links to non-DOL Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

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17-3021.00 - Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians

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Operate, install, calibrate, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data.

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Also called:

aeronautical engineering, or astronautical engineering

aerospace engineering, field of engineering concerned with the design, development, construction, testing, and operation of vehicles operating in the Earth's atmosphere or in outer space. In 1958 the first definition of aerospace engineering appeared, considering the Earth's atmosphere and the space above it as a single realm for development of flight vehicles. Today the more encompassing aerospace definition has commonly replaced the terms aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering.

The design of a flight vehicle demands a knowledge of many engineering disciplines. It is rare that one person takes on the entire task; instead, most companies have design teams specialized in the sciences of aerodynamics, propulsion systems, structural design, materials, avionics, and stability and control systems. No single design can optimize all of these sciences, but rather there exist compromised designs that incorporate the vehicle specifications, available technology, and economic feasibility.

History

Aeronautical engineering

The roots of aeronautical engineering can be traced to the early days of mechanical engineering, to inventors' concepts, and to the initial studies of aerodynamics, a branch of theoretical physics. The earliest sketches of flight vehicles were drawn by Leonardo da Vinci, who suggested two ideas for sustentation. The first was an ornithopter, a flying machine using flapping wings to imitate the flight of birds. The second idea was an aerial screw, the predecessor of the helicopter. Manned flight was first achieved in 1783, in a hot-air balloon designed by the French brothers Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier. Aerodynamics became a factor in balloon flight when a propulsion system was considered for forward movement. Benjamin Franklin was one of the first to propose such an idea, which led to the development of the dirigible. The power-driven balloon was invented by Henri Gifford, a Frenchman, in 1852. The invention of lighter-than-air vehicles occurred independently of the development of aircraft. The breakthrough in aircraft development came in 1799 when Sir George Cayley, an English baron, drew an airplane incorporating a fixed wing for lift, an empennage (consisting of horizontal and vertical tail surfaces for stability and control), and a separate propulsion system. Because engine development was virtually nonexistent, Cayley turned to gliders, building the first successful one in 1849. Gliding flights established a data base for aerodynamics and aircraft design. Otto Lilienthal, a German scientist, recorded more than 2,000 glides in a five-year period, beginning in 1891. Lilienthal's work was followed by the American aeronaut Octave Chanute, a friend of the American brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright, the fathers of modern manned flight.

Following the first sustained flight of a heavier-than-air vehicle in 1903, the Wright brothers refined their design, eventually selling airplanes to the U.S. Army. The first major impetus to aircraft development occurred during World War I, when aircraft were designed and constructed for specific military missions, including fighter attack, bombing, and reconnaissance. The end of the war marked the decline of military high-technology aircraft and the rise of civil air transportation. Many advances in the civil sector were due to technologies gained in developing military and racing aircraft. A successful military design that found many civil applications was the U.S. Navy Curtiss NC-4 flying boat, powered by four 400-horsepower V-12 Liberty engines. It was the British, however, who paved the way in civil aviation in 1920 with a 12-passenger Handley-Page transport. Aviation boomed after Charles A. Lindbergh's solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927. Advances in metallurgy led to improved strength-to-weight ratios and, coupled with a monocoque design, enabled aircraft to fly farther and faster. Hugo Junkers, a German, built the first all-metal monoplane in 1910, but the design was not accepted until 1933, when the Boeing 247-D entered service. The twin-engine design of the latter established the foundation of modern air transport.

The advent of the turbine-powered airplane dramatically changed the air transportation industry. Germany and Britain were concurrently developing the jet engine, but it was a German Heinkel He 178 that made the first jet flight on Aug. 27, 1939. Even though World War II accelerated the growth of the airplane, the jet aircraft was not introduced into service until 1944, when the British Gloster Meteor became operational, shortly followed by the German Me 262. The first practical American jet was the Lockheed F-80, which entered service in 1945.

Commercial aircraft after World War II continued to use the more economical propeller method of propulsion. The efficiency of the jet engine was increased, and in 1949 the British de Havilland Comet inaugurated commercial jet transport flight. The Comet, however, experienced structural failures that curtailed the service, and it was not until 1958 that the highly successful Boeing 707 jet transport began nonstop transatlantic flights. While civil aircraft designs utilize most new technological advancements, the transport and general aviation configurations have changed only slightly since 1960. Because of escalating fuel and hardware prices, the development of civil aircraft has been dominated by the need for economical operation.

Technological improvements in propulsion, materials, avionics, and stability and controls have enabled aircraft to grow in size, carrying more cargo faster and over longer distances. While aircraft are becoming safer and more efficient, they are also now very complex. Today's commercial aircraft are among the most sophisticated engineering achievements of the day.

Smaller, more fuel-efficient airliners are being developed. The use of turbine engines in light general aviation and commuter aircraft is being explored, along with more efficient propulsion systems, such as the propfan concept. Using satellite communication signals, onboard microcomputers can provide more accurate vehicle navigation and collision-avoidance systems. Digital electronics coupled with servo mechanisms can increase efficiency by providing active stability augmentation of control systems. New composite materials providing greater weight reduction; inexpensive one-man, lightweight, noncertified aircraft, referred to as ultralights; and alternate fuels such as ethanol, methanol, synthetic fuel from shale deposits and coal, and liquid hydrogen are all being explored. Aircraft designed for vertical and short takeoff and landing, which can land on runways one-tenth the normal length, are being developed. Hybrid vehicles such as the Bell XV-15 tilt-rotor already combine the vertical and hover capabilities of the helicopter with the speed and efficiency of the airplane. Although environmental restrictions and high operating costs have limited the success of the supersonic civil transport, the appeal of reduced traveling time justifies the examination of a second generation of supersonic aircraft.

Aerospace engineering

The use of rocket engines for aircraft propulsion opened a new realm of flight to the aeronautical engineer. Robert H. Goddard, an American, developed, built, and flew the first successful liquid-propellant rocket on March 16, 1926. Goddard proved that flight was possible at speeds greater than the speed of sound and that rockets can work in a vacuum. The major impetus in rocket development came in 1938 when the American James Hart Wyld designed, built, and tested the first U.S. regeneratively cooled liquid rocket engine. In 1947 Wyld's rocket engine powered the first supersonic research aircraft, the Bell X-1, flown by the U.S. Air Force captain Charles E. Yeager. Supersonic flight offered the aeronautical engineer new challenges in propulsion, structures and materials, high-speed aeroelasticity, and transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic aerodynamics. The experience gained in the X-1 tests led to the development of the X-15 research rocket plane, which flew nearly 200 flights over a nine-year period. The X-15 established an extensive database in transonic and supersonic flight (up to five times the speed of sound) and revealed vital information concerning the upper atmosphere.

The late 1950s and '60s marked a period of intense growth for astronautical engineering. In 1957 the U.S.S.R. orbited Sputnik I, the world's first artificial satellite, which triggered a space exploration race with the United States. In 1961 U.S. president John F. Kennedy recommended to Congress to undertake the challenge of "landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the Earth" by the end of the 1960s. This commitment was fulfilled on July 20, 1969, when astronauts Neil A. Armstrong and Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr., landed on the Moon.

The 1970s began the decline of the U.S. manned spaceflights. The exploration of the Moon was replaced by unmanned voyages to Jupiter, Saturn, and other planets. The exploitation of space was redirected from conquering distant planets to providing a better understanding of the human environment. Artificial satellites provide data pertaining to geographic formations, oceanic and atmospheric movements, and worldwide communications. The frequency of U.S. spaceflights in the 1960s and '70s led to the development of a reusable, low-orbital-altitude space shuttle. Known officially as the Space Transportation System, the shuttle has made numerous flights since its initial launch on April 12, 1981. It has been used for both military and commercial purposes ( e.g., deployment of communications satellites).

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Aerospace engineering | Design, Manufacturing & Testing

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Aerospace engineering, field of engineering concerned with the design, development, construction, testing, and operation of vehicles operating in the Earth's atmosphere or in outer space. In 1958 the first definition of aerospace engineering appeared, considering the Earth's atmosphere and the

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- An average plane has more than 6 million parts
- Aerospace engineers work on missiles
-Jobs are limited for aerospace engineers as it is a small feild

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Some tools that are frequently used as an aerospace engineer are, accelerometers, Adjustable Wrenches, boroscopes, and Dial calipers

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If i were an aerospace engineer i would choose to work at spaceX because they have been doing the most exciting work with rockets lately.

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Aerospace engineers help produce airplanes that get us long distance easily, and they also help us explore the unknown depths of space.

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The most famous aerospace engineers were the wright brothers, who created the first functional air plane , their innovation changed humanity forever.

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Aerospace engineers make parts for planes and space crafts, they make anything from airplanes to space satellites

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You need a bachelors ' degree to become an entry level aerospace engineer.

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Aerospace engineers make anywhere from 60-130 thousand in a year.

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1958 was when the term "aerospace engineering" was first coined, and the actual job started when the airplane was created by the Wright brothers