Aerospace Engineering Technician

Your Fit

Income

$78K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

8.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Aerospace Engineering Technician?

Aerospace Engineering Technicians assist in the design, development, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles, using principles of aerospace engineering. They play a crucial role in the maintenance and operation of equipment used in these processes.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Aerospace Engineering Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Aerospace Engineering Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$50K per year	$62K per year	$78K per year	$99K per year	$114K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $30K above the national average.

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What does an Aerospace Engineering Technician do?

Work environment

Aerospace Engineering Technicians typically work in manufacturing or industrial plants, laboratories, or office settings within the aerospace industry. Their work may involve regular hours but sometimes requires overtime or shifts to meet project deadlines. They often work closely with Aerospace Engineers and other technicians.

Quick task list

Assists in the design and development of aerospace vehicles and systems.
Conducts and supports tests of aerospace products, interpreting test data.
Maintains and operates aerospace testing and production equipment.
Prepares reports and documentation of test results.
Ensures compliance with quality standards and safety regulations.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Aircraft Maintenance: Specializing in the upkeep and repair of aircraft.
Spacecraft Production: Assisting in the assembly and testing of spacecraft.
Flight Testing: Conducting and supporting flight test operations.
Instrumentation and Control Systems: Focusing on the maintenance and operation of aerospace control systems.
Materials Testing: Specializing in testing the materials used in aerospace products for durability and performance.

Description

Aerospace Engineering Technicians are vital in the aerospace industry, bridging the gap between theoretical engineering design and practical application. They assist engineers in developing aerospace products by preparing, conducting, and evaluating tests on various aerospace vehicles and equipment. This role requires a strong understanding of aerospace systems and components, as well as the ability to operate complex testing equipment. Technicians must be precise and attentive to detail, as the data they collect and analyze is crucial for the safety and success of aerospace projects.

Their work is diverse, ranging from hands-on fabrication and assembly tasks to more analytical roles such as data collection and analysis. Aerospace Engineering Technicians must adapt to the rapidly evolving technology in the aerospace field, which often involves working with cutting-edge materials and systems. Good communication skills are essential, as technicians need to report their findings effectively to engineers and other team members.

Aerospace Engineering Technicians typically work in teams and must collaborate effectively with other technicians and engineers. They also play a significant role in ensuring that projects adhere to quality standards and safety regulations. This career can be highly rewarding for those who are passionate about aerospace technology and enjoy a mix of hands-on and analytical work.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being part of a team that develops advanced aerospace technologies.
The opportunity to work hands-on with aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems.
Seeing the direct impact of your work on the functionality and success of aerospace projects.

You might make a good Aerospace Engineering Technician if you are...

Fascinated by aircraft and spacecraft and enjoy working on mechanical systems.
Detail-oriented with a strong aptitude for problem-solving.
Comfortable working with complex machinery and computer systems.
Able to work well in a team and communicate effectively.
Interested in a career that blends hands-on technical work with analytical tasks.

Pros:

Involvement in cutting-edge aerospace projects.
Opportunities for hands-on work with advanced technology.
A dynamic work environment with diverse tasks and responsibilities.

Cons:

The work can be physically demanding and may require adherence to strict safety protocols.
May involve working in noisy or high-pressure environments.
The need to constantly update skills to keep pace with technological advancements in the aerospace sector.

How to become an Aerospace Engineering Technician

Typical education

An associate degree in aerospace technology or a related field is typically required, which involves about 2 years of post-secondary education. Some positions might also require specific training or certifications related to aerospace engineering technology.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics and physics to understand the basic principles of aerospace engineering.
Computer science to develop skills in software used for design and simulation.
Technical education classes, such as electronics or mechanics, for hands-on skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a robotics club or a model aviation hobby group.
Participating in science fairs or engineering challenges.
Volunteering or interning at local airports, museums, or companies in the aerospace sector.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in an accredited associate degree program in aerospace engineering technology or a related field.
Gain practical experience through internships or co-op programs in the aerospace industry.
Consider obtaining certifications in specific areas like CAD software, instrumentation, or aircraft maintenance.

More resources

Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) - Provides industry insights and career information in aerospace.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - Offers resources and information on regulations and certifications in aviation.
SpaceTEC - National resource for aerospace technical education and certifications.
Aviation Week Network - A platform for aerospace industry news and career resources.

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