Aeronautical engineer careers can be among the most rewarding career paths for those interested in the field of aerodynamics, space technology and aircraft maintenance. If you are working towards a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, take some time to learn about the different types of jobs and positions available at aerospace engineering companies, MROs (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) organizations, and even some of the major airlines. Organizations like NASA, Northrup Gorman and Lockheed Martin are some of the leading employers of aeronautical engineers, but you can find several other career options at similar organizations around the world.
Aeronautical Engineer Careers: Types of Positions
Aeronautical and aerospace engineers are responsible for designing, testing, and overseeing the production processes of aircraft, missiles, satellite systems and spacecraft. Aeronautical engineers work specifically with aircraft and may work in the field of aviation, defense, or space exploration. The types of positions available in this field include:
- Aerodynamicist
- Aeronautical test engineer
- Aeronautical design engineer
- Rotorcraft Aeronautical Engineer
- Stress analyst
- Propulsion systems specialist
Some candidates choose to specialize in a particular type of aircraft, such as rockets, commercial aircraft, military jets, or even helicopters.
Fields of Work as an Aeronautical Engineer
Many companies offering positions in this field give employees a chance to contribute to the organization in a variety of ways. Having an aeronautical engineering degree doesn't limit the candidate to working in the field of systems engineering or testing. In many cases, the candidate can work in the fields such as structures, propulsion, navigation and controls, mission analysis, software engineering and aircraft guidance systems.
Some work in the field of airframe and installation design, while others work in configuration management and flight testing. Aeronautical engineers can fulfill a number of different engineering positions and roles within an organization, and can get on-the-job training to specialize in a particular area at some point in their career.
Salary Ranges for Aeronautical Engineer Careers
Salary ranges vary significantly by employer and location of the position. Salaries and wages are also calculated based on the candidate's years of experience in that particular field, areas of specialization, and any advanced training they may have received during their work-study program or internships.
The salary range for aeronautical engineer careers is from $48,000 to $109,000. Some candidates are eligible for bonuses and profit sharing programs that add from $5,000 to $30,000 to the base pay.
Aeronautical Engineer Careers: Basic Education and Training Requirements
If you are interested in pursuing an aeronautical engineering career, you will need to have at least a bachelor's degree in the field and then complete four years of hands-on training. Aeronautical engineers are required to pass two exams and complete training as a graduate in order to receive their Professional Engineer (PE) credentials.
Bachelor's degree programs must be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and students may choose to specialize in a particular area during their final years of study. Specialization can open up more career opportunities and can also command a higher-than-average salary.