Aerospace Engineers

Nature of work

Aerospace engineers research, design and develop aerospace vehicles, aerospace systems and their components. They complete tasks related to vehicle and systems testing, evaluation, installation, operation, and maintenance. Aerospace engineers work for aircraft and spacecraft manufacturers, air transport carriers, and in government and educational and research institutions.

Job duties

Aerospace engineers:

• Design and develop aerospace vehicles, systems and components like aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, satellites, and space-based communication systems.
• Develop and conduct computer simulations of aerospace vehicles, systems and components using advanced mathematical modelling.
• Prepare specifications for materials and processes to be used in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, repair, or modification.
• Supervise and coordinate the manufacturing, assembly, modification, repair and overhaul of aircraft and spacecraft.
• Coordinate ground and flight tests of air and spacecraft.
• Develop operational specifications, maintenance schedules and manuals for operators.
• Develop the technical phases of logistical and operational support for aerospace vehicles and systems.
• Investigate and report on structural or other component or system failures, accidents or incidents and prepare recommendations for corrective action.

Sample job titles

• aerodynamics engineer
• aeronautical engineer
• aerospace engineer
• aerospace structural engineer
• aerospace systems engineer
• aerospace test engineer
• aircraft design engineer
• stress engineer - aerospace

Skills

• You need persistence and good judgement. The ability to think analytically and logically is important. You must be able to communicate and cooperate with others, as engineers often work in teams. Leadership and problem-solving skills are also necessary. Computer experience is an important asset.

Job requirements

• A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or in a related engineering discipline, like mechanical engineering or engineering physics, is required.
• A master's degree or doctorate in a related engineering discipline may be required.
• Licensing by a provincial association of professional engineers is required to approve engineering drawings and reports and to practice as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
• Engineers are eligible for registration following graduation from an accredited educational program, and after three or four years of supervised work experience in engineering and passing a professional practice examination.

Other considerations

• Engineers often work in a multidisciplinary environment and gain knowledge and skills through work experience that may allow them to practice in associated areas of science, engineering, sales, marketing, or management. There is considerable movement between aerospace engineering specializations at the less senior levels. Supervisory and senior positions in this group require experience.

Regulations

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