Aerospace Engineers

Description

Career Cluster:

Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Perform engineering duties in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. May conduct basic and applied research to evaluate adaptability of materials and equipment to aircraft design and manufacture. May recommend improvements in testing equipment and techniques.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Education

Required Level of Education

• Bachelor's Degree = 76.96%
• Master's Degree = 14.02%
• Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades) = 7.72%
• Post-Doctoral Training = 0.95%
• Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) = 0.34%

Related Work Experience

• Over 10 years = 30.72%
• Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 22.84%
• Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years = 18.23%
• Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 11.85%
• None = 8.97%
• Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years = 5.69%
• Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years = 1.69%

On-Site or In-Plant Training

• Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 27.16%
• Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 18.02%
• Up to and including 1 month = 15.91%
• Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 11.33%
• Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 10.70%
• None = 9.10%
• Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 7.78%

On-the-Job Training

• Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 32.46%
• Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 14.94%
• Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 13.88%
• Over 4 years, up to and including 10 years = 12.56%
• Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 12.20%
• Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 10.44%
• None or short demonstration = 2.77%
• Anything beyond short demonstration, up to and including 1 month = 0.75%

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Tasks

Core Tasks Include:

• Formulate conceptual design of aeronautical or aerospace products or systems to meet customer requirements.
• Direct or coordinate activities of engineering or technical personnel involved in designing, fabricating, modifying, or testing of aircraft or aerospace products.
• Develop design criteria for aeronautical or aerospace products or systems, including testing methods, production costs, quality standards, and completion dates.
• Plan or conduct experimental, environmental, operational, or stress tests on models or prototypes of aircraft or aerospace systems or equipment.
• Evaluate product data and design from inspections and reports for conformance to engineering principles, customer requirements, and quality standards.
• Write technical reports or other documentation, such as handbooks or bulletins, for use by engineering staff, management, or customers.
• Analyze project requests, proposals, or engineering data to determine feasibility, productibility, cost, or production time of aerospace or aeronautical products.
• Review performance reports and documentation from customers and field engineers, and inspect malfunctioning or damaged products to determine problem.
• Plan or coordinate activities concerned with investigating and resolving customers' reports of technical problems with aircraft or aerospace vehicles.
• Maintain records of performance reports for future reference.

Supplemental Tasks Include:

• Formulate mathematical models or other methods of computer analysis to develop, evaluate, or modify design, according to customer engineering requirements.
• Direct research and development programs.
• Evaluate and approve selection of vendors by studying past performance or new advertisements.

Tasks Include:

• Design new or modify existing aerospace systems to reduce polluting emissions, such as nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, or smoke emissions.
• Design or engineer filtration systems that reduce harmful emissions.
• Evaluate biofuel performance specifications to determine feasibility for aerospace applications.
• Research new materials to determine quality or conformance to environmental standards.
• Review aerospace engineering designs to determine how to reduce negative environmental impacts.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Tools and Technology

Tools Include:

• Sound measuring apparatus or decibel meter (Acoustic emissions systems)
• Anechoic chambers
• Lasers (Argon-ion lasers)
• Scanning probe microscopes (Atomic force microscopes)
• Aircraft engine compressors (Axial flow compressor facilities)
• Vibration testers (Axial flow research fans)
• Turbine engines (Axial flow turbines)
• Power grinders (Centerless grinders)
• High end computer servers (Cluster computers)
• Milling cutters (Computer numerical controlled CNC milling machines)
• Oscilloscopes (Digital oscilloscopes)
• Pressure indicators (Digital pressure gauges)
• Voltage or current meters (Digital voltmeters DVM)
• Aerospace cockpit display panels (Electronic flight instrument systems EFIS)
• Pressure sensors (Electronic pressure scanners)
• Fatigue testers (Fatigue testing machines)
• Interferometers (Fiber optic interferometers)
• Aircraft flight simulators or trainers (Flight simulators)
• Flowmeters (Flow meters)
• Force or torque sensors (Force transducers)
• Compressed air gun (Impact guns)
• Flow injection analysis equipment (Impinging jet apparatus)
• Laboratory centrifugal pumps
• Flowmeters (Laser Doppler velocimeters LDV)
• Flowmeters (Laser velocimeters)
• Lasers
• Lathes
• Load frame (Load frames)
• Mainframe computers
• Milling cutters (Multi-axis mills)
• High end computer servers (Parallel computers)
• Personal computers
• Plotter printers (Plotters)
• Signal generators (Power microwave generators)
• Surface testers (Profilometers)
• High vacuum combustion apparatus (Propellant combustion chambers)
• Dynamometers (Push/pull dynamometers)
• Polariscopes (Reflection polariscopes)
• Signal generators
• Spectrometers
• Strain gauges (Strain gauge balances)
• Power grinders (Surface grinders)
• Mainframe console or dumb terminals (Terminal computers)
• Ultrasonic examination equipment (Ultrasonic inspection equipment)
• Desktop computers (UNIX work stations)
• High vacuum equipment (Vacuum facilities)
• Vibration testers (Vibration isolation tables)
• Viscosimeters (Viscometers)
• Frequency analyzers (Wave analyzers)
• Welders

Technologies Include:

• Analytical or scientific software

• Alstom ESARAD
• Alstom ESATAN
• Altera Quartus II
• Analytical Graphics STK Expert Edition
• ANSYS software
• Collier Research HyperSizer
• Computational fluid dynamics CFD software
• Computer-aided engineering CAE software
• Cullimore & Ring Technologies SINDA/FLUINT
• Cullimore & Ring Technologies Thermal Desktop
• Data acquisition systems
• ESI Group AutoSEA2
• Fatigue analysis software
• Finite element method FEM software
• Flexible dynamics modeling software
• Grid generation software
• Harvard Thermal TAS
• K&K Associates Thermal Analysis Kit TAK
• Maplesoft Maple
• MSC Software Fatigue
• MSC Software Nastran
• MSC Software Patran
• Network Analysis SINDA-G
• Phoenix Integration ModelCenter
• Southwest Research Institute NASGRO
• Stress analysis software
• TEAM Engineering FEMAP
• Tecplot Focus
• The MathWorks MATLAB
• The MathWorks Simulink
• Thermal analysis software
• Thermal Radiation Analysis System TRASYS
• Thermal Synthesizer System TSS
• Universal Technical Systems TK Solver
• Wolfram Research Mathematica

• Computer aided design CAD software

• Autodesk AutoCAD software
• Computer aided design CAD software
• Dassault Systemes SolidWorks software
• Mathsoft Mathcad
• Thermal design software
• UGS Solid Edge
• Xilinx TMRTool

• Computer aided manufacturing CAM software

• Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
• Dassault Systemes CATIA software
• PTC Pro/ENGINEER software

• Configuration management software

• IBM Rational ClearCase

• Data base user interface and query software

• Microsoft Access
• Oracle software

• Development environment software

• Ada
• C
• Digital Equipment Corporation DIGITAL Fortran 90
• IBM Rational ClearQuest
• Microsoft Visual Basic
• National Instruments LabVIEW
• Verilog

• Flight control software

• Flight management systems FMS

• Graphics or photo imaging software

• Image processing systems

• Object or component oriented development software

• Microsoft Visual C++
• Practical extraction and reporting language Perl
• Sun Microsystems Java

• Office suite software

• Microsoft Office software

• Operating system software

• Hewlett-Packard HP OpenVMS

• Project management software

• PTC Pro/INTRALINK

• Requirements analysis and system architecture software

• IBM Rational DOORS
• IBM Rational Requisite Pro

• Spreadsheet software

• Microsoft Excel

• Word processing software

• Microsoft Word

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Special Requirements

 

Step 1:		Graduation The first step is graduating from an ABET-accredited engineering program at a college or university.
Step 2:		FE Exam The first exam in the licensure process is the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE). This exam is offered in April and October every year. Most students take the exam right before graduation or soon after while the technical information they've studied is still fresh in their minds.
Step 3:		Work Experience Many jurisdictions have specific requirements about the type of experience you need to gain. Most require that you gain experience under the supervision of someone who is already licensed, and that your experience involve increasing levels of responsibility. Once you begin work, contact your licensing board to find out what experience is needed and talk with professional engineers in your company to find out how you can gain this experience.
Step 4:		PE Exam Once you have gained the appropriate experience, you can take the second exam in the licensure process, the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE). This exam is given in a variety of engineering disciplines. Most disciplines are offered in both April and October, but some are offered only in October.

Required Fees:

 

For More Information, Contact:

Virginia Department Of Professional And Occupational Regulation
Board For Architects / Prof. Engineers / Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers, And Landscape Architects
3600 West Broad St.
Richmond, VA 23230-4917
Phone: 804..36.8512
TTY: 804..36.9753
Fax: 804..36.2475

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research.

Aerospace Engineers

Additional Resources

For further information about aerospace engineers contact:

Aerospace Industries Association
1250 Eye St. NW.
Washington, DC 20005
http://www.aia-aerospace.org

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc.
Suite 500
1801 Alexander Bell Dr.
Reston, VA 20191-4344
http://www.aiaa.org

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research.

Aerospace Engineers

Knowledge

%	Subject	Description
91.50	Engineering and Technology	Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
86.00	Design	Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
85.50	Physics	Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
82.50	Mathematics	Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
80.25	Mechanical	Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
74.25	Computers and Electronics	Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
73.00	English Language	Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
58.50	Production and Processing	Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
58.25	Administration and Management	Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
57.50	Public Safety and Security	Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
52.50	Clerical	Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
52.00	Education and Training	Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Skills

%	Subject	Description
78.00	Critical Thinking	Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
75.00	Reading Comprehension	Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
72.00	Operations Analysis	Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
72.00	Complex Problem Solving	Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
72.00	Active Listening	Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
72.00	Speaking	Talking to others to convey information effectively.
68.75	Mathematics	Using mathematics to solve problems.
68.75	Writing	Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
68.75	Science	Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
65.50	Monitoring	Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
62.50	Judgment and Decision Making	Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
62.50	Active Learning	Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
59.50	Systems Analysis	Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
59.50	Coordination	Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
56.25	Systems Evaluation	Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
56.25	Time Management	Managing one's own time and the time of others.
56.25	Quality Control Analysis	Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
56.25	Social Perceptiveness	Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
53.00	Instructing	Teaching others how to do something.
53.00	Technology Design	Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
53.00	Learning Strategies	Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
50.00	Persuasion	Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
50.00	Negotiation	Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Abilities

%	Subject	Description
78.00	Written Comprehension	The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
75.00	Deductive Reasoning	The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
72.00	Oral Comprehension	The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
72.00	Oral Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
72.00	Inductive Reasoning	The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
68.75	Problem Sensitivity	The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
68.75	Mathematical Reasoning	The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
68.75	Written Expression	The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
65.50	Near Vision	The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
65.50	Information Ordering	The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
62.50	Speech Clarity	The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
59.50	Category Flexibility	The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
59.50	Speech Recognition	The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
56.25	Fluency of Ideas	The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
56.25	Selective Attention	The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
56.25	Visualization	The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
56.25	Originality	The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
56.25	Number Facility	The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
53.00	Flexibility of Closure	The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50.00	Perceptual Speed	The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
50.00	Far Vision	The ability to see details at a distance.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Work Activities

%	Subject	Description
90.00	Interacting With Computers	Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
86.50	Making Decisions and Solving Problems	Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
85.00	Getting Information	Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
82.00	Analyzing Data or Information	Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
81.25	Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
80.25	Documenting/Recording Information	Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
76.50	Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
74.50	Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment	Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
74.25	Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
72.50	Processing Information	Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
70.75	Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
69.75	Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
68.50	Thinking Creatively	Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
66.50	Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
65.75	Communicating with Persons Outside Organization	Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
62.50	Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
61.75	Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
60.25	Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
59.00	Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material	Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
58.25	Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People	Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
57.50	Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
53.00	Provide Consultation and Advice to Others	Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
52.50	Developing Objectives and Strategies	Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
52.00	Scheduling Work and Activities	Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
51.00	Developing and Building Teams	Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
50.50	Training and Teaching Others	Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Work Styles

%	Subject	Description
91.00	Attention to Detail	Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
87.75	Dependability	Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
87.50	Analytical Thinking	Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
86.00	Persistence	Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
85.50	Innovation	Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
85.00	Initiative	Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
84.25	Achievement/Effort	Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
82.50	Integrity	Job requires being honest and ethical.
81.75	Cooperation	Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
79.00	Stress Tolerance	Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
78.50	Adaptability/Flexibility	Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
76.25	Leadership	Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
73.50	Independence	Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
67.00	Self Control	Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
56.25	Concern for Others	Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
51.50	Social Orientation	Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Work Values

%	Subject	Description
75.00	Working Conditions	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
72.17	Recognition	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
72.17	Independence	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
66.67	Achievement	Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
66.67	Support	Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
55.50	Relationships	Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Work Context

%	Subject	Description
99.00	Indoors, Environmentally Controlled	How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
96.20	Face-to-Face Discussions	How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
95.40	Electronic Mail	How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
92.80	Telephone	How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
85.40	Importance of Being Exact or Accurate	How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
84.20	Structured versus Unstructured Work	To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
84.00	Contact With Others	How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
83.60	Work With Work Group or Team	How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
80.20	Freedom to Make Decisions	How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
79.00	Spend Time Sitting	How much does this job require sitting?
73.40	Time Pressure	How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
72.00	Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets	How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
72.00	Coordinate or Lead Others	How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
68.60	Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results	How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
68.60	Importance of Repeating Same Tasks	How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
68.00	Letters and Memos	How often does the job require written letters and memos?
64.60	Deal With External Customers	How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
63.80	Frequency of Decision Making	How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
59.40	Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable	How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
59.20	Responsibility for Outcomes and Results	How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
59.00	Physical Proximity	To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
56.80	Consequence of Error	How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
52.80	Responsible for Others' Health and Safety	How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
52.60	Frequency of Conflict Situations	How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
52.40	Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions	How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
52.00	Level of Competition	To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
50.00	Degree of Automation	How automated is the job?

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

• Overall Experience
  • A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
• Job Training
  • Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
• Examples
  • Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include accountants, sales managers, database administrators, teachers, chemists, art directors, and cost estimators.
• Education
  • Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Earnings Benefits*

Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
United States	$65,130.00	$103,870.00	$127,740.00
Virginia	$74,790.00	$122,890.00	$147,850.00
Region	Entry Level	Median	Experienced
Bay Consortium	$77,610.00	$111,050.00	$119,917.00
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	$88,292.00	$111,309.00	$123,159.00
Central VA/Region2000	No Data	No Data	No Data
Crater Area	No Data	No Data	No Data
Greater Peninsula	$88,322.00	$118,087.00	$129,617.00
Hampton Roads	$65,931.00	$108,448.00	$121,298.00
New River/Mt. Rogers	$57,111.00	$76,400.00	$97,434.00
Northern Virginia and Alexandria/Arlington	$91,289.00	$137,694.00	$155,571.00
Piedmont Workforce	No Data	No Data	No Data
Shenandoah Valley	No Data	No Data	No Data
South Central	No Data	No Data	No Data
Southwestern Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data
West Piedmont	No Data	No Data	No Data
Western Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data

* Earnings Calculations:

 Regional Earnings:
   Entry = Annual mean of the lower 1/3 wage distribution;
   Experienced = Annual mean of the upper 2/3 wage distribution.

 National and State Earnings:
   Entry = Annual 10th percentile wage;
   Experienced = Annual 75th percentile wage.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection.

Aerospace Engineers

Employment Projections

National	2012	2022	% Change
United States	83,000	89,100	+ 7.3%
State	2012	2022	% Change
Virginia	4,320	5,222	+ 20.9%
Region	2010	2020	% Change
Bay Consortium	227	242	+ 6.6%
Capital Region Workforce Partnership	No Data	No Data	No Data
Central VA/Region2000	No Data	No Data	No Data
Crater Area	No Data	No Data	No Data
Greater Peninsula	897	998	+ 11.3%
Hampton Roads	No Data	No Data	No Data
New River/Mt. Rogers	No Data	No Data	No Data
Northern Virginia and Alexandria/Arlington	2,817	3,738	+ 32.7%
Piedmont Workforce	No Data	No Data	No Data
Shenandoah Valley	No Data	No Data	No Data
South Central	No Data	No Data	No Data
Southwestern Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data
West Piedmont	No Data	No Data	No Data
Western Virginia	No Data	No Data	No Data

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection.

Aerospace Engineers

Related Occupations

Related Occupations

• Architectural and Engineering Managers
• Civil Engineers
• Electrical Engineers
• Industrial Engineers
• Marine Engineers
• Marine Architects
• Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
• Petroleum Engineers
• Industrial Engineering Technicians

 

Careers in Engineering and Technology Pathway:

• Quality Control Systems Managers
• Architectural and Engineering Managers
• Logistics Engineers
• Aerospace Engineers
• Agricultural Engineers
• Chemical Engineers
• Transportation Engineers
• Computer Hardware Engineers
• Electrical Engineers
• Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
• Water/Wastewater Engineers
• Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors
• Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers
• Product Safety Engineers
• Industrial Engineers
• Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists
• Marine Engineers and Naval Architects
• Marine Engineers
• Marine Architects
• Materials Engineers
• Mechanical Engineers
• Fuel Cell Engineers
• Automotive Engineers
• Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
• Nuclear Engineers
• Petroleum Engineers
• Engineers, All Other
• Biochemical Engineers
• Validation Engineers
• Energy Engineers
• Manufacturing Engineers
• Mechatronics Engineers
• Microsystems Engineers
• Photonics Engineers
• Robotics Engineers
• Nanosystems Engineers
• Wind Energy Engineers
• Solar Energy Systems Engineers
• Architectural and Civil Drafters
• Architectural Drafters
• Civil Drafters
• Electrical and Electronics Drafters
• Electronic Drafters
• Electrical Drafters
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technicians
• Electronics Engineering Technicians
• Electrical Engineering Technicians
• Electro-Mechanical Technicians
• Automotive Engineering Technicians
• Engineering Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
• Electrical Engineering Technologists
• Electromechanical Engineering Technologists
• Electronics Engineering Technologists
• Industrial Engineering Technologists
• Manufacturing Engineering Technologists
• Mechanical Engineering Technologists
• Fuel Cell Technicians
• Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists
• Nanotechnology Engineering Technicians
• Surveying and Mapping Technicians
• Surveying Technicians
• Mapping Technicians
• Technical Writers

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

View Videos

The following videos are available for this occupation:

• Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (4.20 Mb)
• Aerospace Engineers (3.65 Mb)



Macromedia Flash is required for viewing the videos. If you do not have the Flash plugin, it is freely available for download.

En Español:

• Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineers (2.88)



Quicktime 5 is required for viewing the Spanish videos. If you do not have the Quicktime plugin, it is freely available for download.

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee.

Aerospace Engineers

Military Training

The following military job classifications are available for this occupation:

• Administrators, General
• Aircraft Crews
• Aviation Maintenance and Allied
• Ordnance
• Physical Scientists

---

The data sources for the information displayed here include: Defense Manpower Data Center.

Aerospace Engineers

Proficiency Ratings

These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.

Proficiency	Rating
Interacting With Computers	4.5
Making Decisions and Solving Problems	4.5
Getting Information	4.5
Analyzing Data or Information	4.5
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge	4.5
Documenting/Recording Information	4.0
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events	4.0
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment	4.0
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates	4.0
Processing Information	4.0
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards	4.0
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings	4.0
Thinking Creatively	3.5
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others	3.5
Communicating with Persons Outside Organization	3.5
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information	3.5
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	3.5
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work	3.5
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material	3.5
Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People	3.5
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others	3.5
Provide Consultation and Advice to Others	3.0
Developing Objectives and Strategies	3.0
Scheduling Work and Activities	3.0
Developing and Building Teams	3.0
Training and Teaching Others	3.0
Selling or Influencing Others	3.0
Performing Administrative Activities	3.0
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others	2.5
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates	2.5
Assisting and Caring for Others	2.5
Coaching and Developing Others	2.5
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment	2.5
Monitoring and Controlling Resources	2.0
Controlling Machines and Processes	2.0
Performing General Physical Activities	2.0
Handling and Moving Objects	2.0
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment	2.0
Staffing Organizational Units	2.0
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment	1.5
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public	1.5

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Titles

• Aerodynamicist
• Aerodynamics Analyst
• Aerodynamics Engineer
• Aeronautical Design Engineer
• Aeronautical Engineer
• Aeronautical Project Engineer
• Aeronautical Research Engineer
• Aeronautical Test Engineer
• Aerospace Engineer
• Aerospace Stress Engineer
• Aircraft Design Engineer
• Aircraft Designer
• Aircraft Engineer
• Aircraft Instrument Engineer
• Aircraft Stress Analyst
• Aircraft Structural Design Engineer
• Airframe Design Engineer
• Airplane Designer
• Airplane Engineer
• Astronautical Engineer
• Attitude Control Engineer
• Automation Engineer
• Aviation Consultant
• Aviation Engineer
• Avionics Engineer
• Brake Control Systems Engineer
• Design Analyst
• Design Engineer
• Designer
• Dynamicist
• Electrical Engineer
• Field Service Engineer
• Flight Analyst
• Flight Controls Engineer
• Flight Dynamicist
• Flight Engineer
• Flight Systems Test Engineer
• Flight Test Engineer
• Fuel-Efficient Aircraft Designer
• Ground Systems Engineer
• Helicopter Engineer
• Hydraulics Component Engineer
• Instrumentation Operations Engineer
• Loads Engineer
• Master Lay Out Specialist
• Military Aircraft Designer
• Mission Systems Engineer
• Operations Engineer
• Physical Aerodynamicist
• Project Engineer
• Propeller Engineer
• Propulsion Engineer
• Propulsion Systems Engineer
• Quality Assurance Engineer
• Rocket Scientist
• Scientist
• Software Engineer
• Space Engineer
• Stress Analyst
• Stress Engineer
• Structural Analysis Engineer
• Structural Test Engineer
• Structures Engineer
• Supersonic Engineer
• Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE)
• Systems Engineer
• Test Analyst
• Test Engineer
• Test Facility Engineer
• Thermodynamicist
• Thermodynamics Engineer
• Transonic Engineer
• Value Engineer
• Vibration Engineer
• Weight Control Engineer
• Weight Engineer
• Wind Tunnel Engineer

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.

Aerospace Engineers

Related Schools

• University of Virginia-Main Campus
• Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

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The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™ 16.0.