Aviation & Aerospace Careers

Aerospace engineers design aircraft and spacecraft, including aerospace products like satellites, missiles, and launch vehicles. Aeronautical engineers design aircraft meant to fly within Earth’s atmosphere, while astronautical engineers create spacecraft and satellites that function in space.

Aerospace engineers design, manufacture, and test aircraft. They evaluate designs to ensure they meet safety and environmental regulations, determine whether proposals meet technical requirements, and inspect aircraft and aerospace products for problems. Aerospace engineers also create prototypes to make sure aircraft and aerospace products function as designed.

Aerospace engineers need strong analytical and mathematical skills. Prospective aerospace engineers can earn an aviation degree to strengthen these skills. During an aviation degree, students can specialize in topics like structural design, robotics, or propulsion. Aerospace engineers often specialize in products like military aircraft, remote piloted crafts, spacecraft, or military missiles.

The average salary for an aerospace engineer exceeds $115,000. The bottom 10% of earners make under $71,000 a year, while the top 10% make more than $164,000 a year. A bachelor’s degree represents the entry-level education requirement for this career.

Aerospace engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field for entry-level jobs. Some schools partner with companies to give students specialized, practical experience while earning their degree. Aerospace engineers seeking mid- and senior-level jobs can often pursue five-year programs that combine bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aerospace engineering.

To advance their career, aerospace engineers must earn a license as a professional engineer, which generally requires a degree from an accredited engineering program and passing scores on the Fundamentals of Engineering and the Professional Engineering exams.

Aerospace engineers can take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam after earning a bachelor’s degree, at which point they serve as engineers-in-training or engineer interns to acquire enough experience to take the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam. Aerospace engineers in several states must take continuing education courses to maintain their licenses.

Source: BLS

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians maintain the equipment used by aerospace engineers to develop, test, and create new aircraft and spacecraft. They also operate equipment used during the testing and producing process. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians play a vital role in the aviation industry since they help prevent the failure of aircraft and spacecraft.

Working closely with aerospace engineers, aerospace engineering and operations technicians test new aircraft and aerospace products. They build testing facilities for aircraft manufacturers, create testing prototypes, and operate computer systems that ensure aircraft meet testing requirements. After performing a test, aerospace engineering and operations technicians record data. They also install instruments to monitor aircraft and spacecraft performance.

Most aerospace engineering and operations technicians work for aerospace products and parts manufacturing or engineering services organizations. They often work in industrial or manufacturing settings, where they may assemble aircraft or conduct testing using tools like a wind tunnel.

The average salary for aerospace engineering and operations technicians exceeds $67,000 a year. An associate degree represents the typical entry-level education requirement for aerospace engineering and operations technicians.

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians need strong communication, critical thinking, technical, and interpersonal skills. These professionals typically need at least an associate degree in aerospace engineering technology for entry-level employment. They can also earn certification through the FAA to increase their hiring potential. Aerospace technicians seeking to work on defense contracts must qualify for a security clearance, which sometimes requires U.S. citizenship.

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians bring strong mechanical and technical skills to their jobs. With experience, they can move into aviation management jobs, overseeing other aerospace engineering and operations technicians. By earning a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, they can work as aerospace engineers.

Source: BLS

Air traffic controllers monitor and direct aircraft to promote safety and minimize delays. They monitor ground traffic at airports, directing pilots on their takeoff order and runway access. They also give pilots takeoff instructions. Additionally, air traffic controllers monitor landing flights and coordinate with other traffic control centers to transfer control of flights.

By managing the flow of aircraft on the ground and in the air, air traffic controllers keep air travel safe. They use computers, radars, and visual references to direct aircraft, often managing several aircraft simultaneously.

Air traffic controllers can specialize in several areas. Tower controllers direct aircraft and other vehicles on runways and taxiways. They give pilots clearance for takeoff, check flight plans, and observe traffic. Approach and departure controllers monitor aircraft within an airport’s airspace. They ensure aircraft maintain separate airspace, giving clearances to other air traffic controllers. Terminal approach controllers assist aircraft within a landing or takeoff radius around an airport, while en route controllers monitor aircraft outside of an airport’s airspace.

The average air traffic controller salary exceeds $124,000 a year, and an associate degree represents the entry-level education requirement.

Air traffic controllers must meet several requirements for entry-level jobs. They must hold U.S. citizenship, complete training from one of the colleges recognized by the FAA, graduate from the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative, and attain a qualifying score on the FAA pre-employment test. Air traffic controllers must also begin their training under the age of 31 unless they possess a background in the field.

Professionals with previous experience, such as Armed Forces training in air traffic control, may not need to meet the FAA education requirements. Once they meet all requirements, air traffic controllers need to pass periodic drug tests in addition to passing a rigorous physical exam and performance examinations twice a year.

Entry-level air traffic controllers, also called developmental controllers, learn and master new skills in the control room before advancing to roles with higher pay and more responsibility. This training typically takes 2-4 years to complete. With adequate experience and training, air traffic controllers can work as supervisors.

Source: BLS

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair aircraft and perform scheduled maintenance.

Aircraft mechanics diagnose mechanical and electrical problems on aircraft. They replace defective parts, ensure replacement parts meet safety standards, and test aircraft parts using diagnostic equipment. Aircraft mechanics must also keep detailed records of their maintenance and repair work.

Avionics technicians specialize in an aircraft’s electrical system. They test electronic equipment, diagnose malfunctions based on flight test data, and assemble electrical components. Avionics technicians also install instrument panels, repair malfunctioning electrical components, and keep records of their work.

Together, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians ensure planes fly safely. They inspect aircraft, replace malfunctioning equipment, and perform scheduled maintenance. Some specialize in types of aircraft, like helicopters or jets. They may also focus on an area of the aircraft, like the engine or hydraulic system.

On average, aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians make $63,000 a year. They often work near major airports in hangars, repair stations, or airfields.

Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians typically need a degree from an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technical school for entry-level employment. Some of these schools offer associate degrees, while others offer bachelor’s degrees in avionics, aviation technology, or aviation maintenance management. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

Aircraft mechanics, avionics equipment mechanics, aircraft technicians, and avionics equipment technicians need certification from the FAA to practice. Although separate certifications are available for airframe mechanics and engine mechanics, employers generally prefer candidates with combined airframe and powerplant (A&P) certification. To maintain their credentials, aircraft mechanics must inspect or repair aircraft every 90 days and attend a refresher course every two years.

With experience, aircraft mechanics may work as a lead mechanic, lead inspector, or shop supervisor. Aviation mechanics often advance from general aviation jobs to airline jobs. Individuals with an aircraft inspector’s authorization and a bachelor’s degree enjoy the most career advancement opportunities.

Source: BLS

Airline and commercial pilots operate aircraft, including commercial airplanes, military helicopters, and private planes. Pilots must check the condition of their aircraft before and after the flight, monitor the plane’s weight balance, verify fuel supply and weather conditions, and submit flight plans to air traffic control. Before, during, and after a flight, pilots must communicate with air traffic controllers.

During a flight, pilots monitor the engines and aircraft systems and navigate using cockpit instruments and visual references. Pilots work closely with copilots, air traffic controllers, and ground personnel during takeoff and landing.

Airline pilots typically work for airlines. They transport passengers and cargo, working with crew members to safely complete the flight on schedule. Commercial pilots fly charter flights and aerial tours, while corporate pilots transport company executives. Agricultural pilots fly crop dusters and other planes involved in agricultural practices, while helicopter pilots specialize in flying helicopters.

On average, airline and commercial pilots earn over $115,000 a year. They need a bachelor’s degree and a commercial pilot’s license for entry-level jobs.

Airline and commercial pilots typically need at least a bachelor’s degree from a certified civilian flight school. They also need a commercial pilot’s license, an instrument rating, and 250 hours of flight experience. In addition, many companies require pilots to undergo physical, psychological, and aptitude tests to ensure they can handle the job’s pressures.

Company training for pilots often includes 6-8 weeks of ground school and an exam, 25 hours of flight time, and yearly training to maintain certification. As of 2013, airline captains and first officers need a transport pilot license. Requirements for the license include acquiring 1,500 hours of flight time, passing written and flight exams, receiving advanced instrument ratings, and passing physical examinations.

Typically, civilian pilots begin their careers as flight instructors, accumulating flight hours during training sessions. After completing training hours, flight instructors can work as commercial airline pilots. With experience, commercial airline pilots can advance their careers and fly corporate planes. However, union contract rules feature specific requirements regarding any position movement. First officers in non-airline jobs can advance to captain and director positions.

Source: BLS

Flight attendants maintain the safety and security of airline passengers before, during, and after a flight. They conduct preflight inspections of the airplane’s emergency equipment, participate in preflight briefings with pilots, and assist passengers throughout the flight. Before takeoff, flight attendants demonstrate safety equipment uses and emergency procedures for passengers. They also make sure passengers follow safety requirements, including fastening their seat belts.

During a flight, flight attendants take care of passenger needs, which often includes providing snacks and beverages. They must also manage any passengers displaying disruptive behavior. In the event of an emergency, flight attendants may direct evacuations, assist passengers, and perform first aid. They protect the flight deck, attend to passengers who require assistance, and operate emergency equipment.

Because of their emergency responsibilities, flight attendants must have strong decision-making skills. They also serve an important customer service role in the airline industry, which requires attentiveness, strong communication skills, and resourcefulness. Flight attendants often work long hours on a variable schedule, which often involves multiple nights away from home.

On average, flight attendants earn $56,000 a year. They must hold flight attendant certification through the FAA.

Flight attendants need at least a high school diploma, though some employers prefer candidates with a college degree in an area such as tourism or public relations. Flight attendants must also meet specific physical and medical requirements.

Flight attendant training usually lasts 3-6 weeks and covers topics such as emergency procedures and flight regulations. In addition, flight attendants must hold FAA certification and complete training on practice flights.

After several years of flight experience, flight attendants can assume senior and managerial roles overseeing instruction and scheduling.

Source: BLS