what is an aerospace engineer?
Have you ever dreamed of helping mankind soar through the stars or fly across the world in hours? An aerospace engineer job lets you turn this dream into a career. As an aerospace engineer, you are responsible for the products used for spacecraft or aircraft. This complex job allows you to create the systems and equipment people use for flight. Depending on your job, you may do things like design, test, or build aerospace equipment. Aerospace engineers work on items such as satellites, aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. They also make and use the systems and software used to guide these items.
industries that employ aerospace engineers
This job is in demand in several different industries. Some aerospace engineers work for manufacturers who make aircraft. Others work for government agencies involved in space exploration. You can find jobs at companies that produce weapons, or you could even end up with a job in the military.
astronautical engineering vs. aeronautical engineering
The aerospace engineering field is divided into two subcategories. Astronautical engineering is engineering that focuses on spacecraft. Meanwhile, aeronautical engineering focuses on flights that take place inside the atmosphere. Many aerospace engineers participate in both categories, but some may specialize in a single field.
Would working as an aerospace engineer suit your interest? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an aerospace engineer role.
aerospace engineer jobsaverage aerospace engineer salary
Due to the high amount of training required to perform this job, it pays a fairly high amount of money. Aerospace engineers earn an average of $100,000 per year. There is some variation in salary, so some people make as low as $70,000 or as high as $150,000. Even if you're one of the lowest-paid aerospace engineers, you still end up making well above the national average.
factors that impact your salary
If you're interested in earning a higher salary, there are several things you can do. First of all, pay close attention to who is offering the job. Large corporations tend to pay quite a lot. You earn more if you have the extra training and education needed to take on larger projects. Aerospace engineers also earn a higher salary when they work in these fields:
- research and development
- aerospace product manufacturing
- federal government service
types of aerospace engineer
Different aerospace engineers specialize in different fields. The field you work in will have an impact on the type of job you can get and the industry you work in. Some common specializations for aerospace engineers include:
- aerodynamics and fluid mechanics
- aircraft control
- aircraft propulsion
- composite materials
- spacecraft engineer
- structural dynamics and aeroelasticity
- thermodynamics
People also categorize aerospace engineers based on whether they're junior or senior employees. Senior engineers often lead projects or work independently. Meanwhile, junior employees are aerospace engineers who work under a supervising engineer.
working as an aerospace engineer
This career can be both challenging and rewarding. Discover what you could expect if you work as an aerospace engineer.
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aerospace engineer job description
The answer to, "What does an aerospace engineer do?" will vary wildly depending on what job you work at. Almost every aerospace engineer's day consists of solving problems, analyzing project requirements, and coming up with solutions. However, the sorts of projects you're completing depend on your job. Here are some examples of the types of tasks you encounter as an aerospace engineer.
- evaluating completed projects: You could perform stress tests on new products or examine them to see whether or not they meet product specifications. This can involve working with specialized equipment, running experiments, and testing items in real-world environments.
- providing technical support: Often, aerospace engineers are the ones who will be called when something goes wrong. Your employer could ask you to do things like see why a rocket launch failed or discover why an aircraft went in the wrong direction.
- collaborating with other teams: Aerospace engineers are usually just one small part of a large team working on a project. You'll do things like check up on other engineers to see whether they're complying with plans. Aerospace engineers provide a lot of technical guidance to less highly trained engineers.
- designing new products: Your skills help take items from concept to reality. Your employers might ask for things like a new system to guide missiles or a new component for a satellite. You'll then take this idea and figure out a practical way to implement it.
- producing new items: Engineers are often closely involved in the manufacturing process. You could use equipment and tools to build physical items yourself.
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aerospace engineer work environment
For many people, being an aerospace engineer is a desk job. A lot of your tasks are done on computers or with paperwork while sitting at a desk. Some aerospace engineers even work from home. However, some jobs involve some physical activity. Engineers often end up doing tests in fields, visiting busy factory floors, or working with equipment in lab environments. Expect to spend time moving around between different departments or even traveling to other branches. In some situations, you'll end up working in areas without HVAC or in environments that require protective gear.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues can include other engineers like electrical engineers, civil engineers, and industrial engineers. You might also be working in close proximity to software developers, systems analysts, and other IT professionals. Aerospace engineers also work with other specialists who include, but are not limited to, data analysts, researchers, and meteorologists.
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aerospace engineer work schedule
Being an aerospace engineer is a very busy job. Almost no one has a part-time aerospace engineer job. Instead, the majority of available positions are full-time. It's extremely common for aerospace engineers to work overtime as well. When you're trying to figure out a project before a deadline, you could end up working more than 12 hours a day.
During times when you're working overtime, your schedule can be quite varied. Many engineers end up working nights and weekends to get things finished. However, the standard aerospace engineer job is not a third-shift job. Your employers usually want you to come into the office during the day on weekdays. Jobs usually have some flexibility, so you don't have to clock in at specific times.
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job outlook for aerospace engineer
As long as there are planes in the sky and shuttles in space, your aerospace engineering talents will be in demand. That said, in Canada, no increase in demand for aerospace engineering is expected in the coming years.
In career terms, a job in aerospace engineering can lead to a supervisory or management position in the same field. Completing your training with an MBA or other management qualification could give you an edge when it comes to promotion.
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benefits of working for randstad as an aerospace engineer
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
aerospace engineer skills and education
To become an aerospace engineer in Canada, you typically need to follow these steps:
- bachelor's degree: pursue a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. This typically takes four years to complete. Ensure that the program is accredited by a recognized accreditation body, such as the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB).
- co-op or internship experience (optional but recommended): many aerospace engineering programs offer co-op or internship opportunities. Participating in these programs can provide valuable hands-on experience and enhance your employability.
- professional engineering license: while not always mandatory, obtaining a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) license can be beneficial for career advancement. This typically involves gaining a few years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed engineer and passing a professional engineering exam.
- continuing education (optional): aerospace engineering is a dynamic field, and staying updated on the latest developments is crucial. Consider pursuing further education, certifications, or attending workshops to enhance your skills and knowledge.
- networking and job search: connect with professionals in the aerospace industry, attend industry events, and join relevant associations or societies.
skills and competencies
Being an aerospace engineer involves a lot of mathematical, scientific, and technical skills. Depending on the job, your employer will need you to be skilled at several of these tasks:
- computer coding: many employers request proficiency with computer programs like Python or Java.
- CAD software: computer-assisted design programs, like AutoCAD, are essential tools for aerospace engineers.
- mathematics: engineers use a lot of complex math, including differential equations, trigonometry, and calculus.
- physics: as an aerospace engineer, your employer may need you to do tasks that involve computational fluid dynamics or other types of physics and mechanics.
- team communication: aerospace engineers usually work as a team, so you need to be able to communicate well with others. Good engineers explain their ideas to coworkers clearly, and they treat fellow employees in a polite and professional manner.
- problem-solving: troubleshooting and bug-fixing are common tasks, so you need to be able to solve problems. Good aerospace engineers can stay calm, identify issues, and propose fixes.
- analysis: strong analytical skills are essential for aerospace engineers. You need to be able to think conceptually and consider things logically.
FAQs about working as an aerospace engineer
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about aerospace engineers.
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what is an aerospace engineer?
An aerospace engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and tests aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems to ensure their efficiency, safety, and compliance with industry standards.
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how much do aerospace engineers make?
The salary of aerospace engineers in Canada can vary, but the average annual income is typically in the range of $70,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on factors like experience, location, and industry.
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do all aerospace engineers need security clearances?
Not all aerospace engineers in Canada require security clearances; the need for clearance depends on the specific job responsibilities and the employer's involvement in projects related to national security or defense.
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is being an aerospace engineer a hard job?
Being an aerospace engineer certainly requires a lot of effort. If you're willing to put in the work and study a lot, the job becomes much easier though. The right education prepares you for the complex tasks you'll do.
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what degree is best for aerospace engineering?
The best degree for aerospace engineering in Canada is a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field, with programs accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB).
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how do I find a job as an aerospace engineer?
Finding a job near you as a aerospace engineer is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.
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