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Aero Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Sr Staff Test Pilot

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$222.70 - $334.10/hr

... Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatros). * Perform research and development flight test in support sensor ... Master's degree in engineering or related technical discipline. * Previous experience in aircraft ...

Showing results 41-48

Aero Engineer information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$43.4K

$112.3K

$170.6K

How much do aero engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for aero engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $112,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $137,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aero engineer?

Aerospace engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and supervise the production of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work on the science and technology of flight, both within the Earth's atmosphere (aeronautics) and in space (astronautics). Their responsibilities can include improving flight safety, fuel efficiency, speed, and the overall performance of air and space vehicles. Aerospace engineers often specialize in areas like structural design, guidance and control, propulsion, or avionics. They typically work for aerospace manufacturers, government agencies, or research organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aero engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aero Engineer, you need a solid background in aerodynamics, structural analysis, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as EIT or PE are important. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set top professionals apart. These skills ensure innovative and safe aircraft or spacecraft designs while meeting regulatory and project requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by aero engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Aero Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering backgrounds, which can make communication and alignment on project goals challenging. Balancing differing technical languages, priorities, and timelines requires strong teamwork and adaptability. Developing solutions that meet both aerodynamics and system integration requirements often involves compromise and continuous coordination, but this multidisciplinary exposure also fosters innovation and professional growth.

What is the difference between Aero Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAero EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license (optional)Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, PE license (optional)
Work EnvironmentAircraft, spacecraft, defense, and aerospace industriesManufacturing, automotive, energy, and general engineering sectors
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace and defense companiesBroadly across various manufacturing and engineering firms

In summary, Aero Engineers specialize in designing and developing aircraft and spacecraft, often working within aerospace industries, while Mechanical Engineers have a broader focus on mechanical systems across multiple sectors. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but differ in their specific applications and work environments.

How much do aerospace engineers earn?

Aerospace engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions generally start lower, while experienced engineers or those working in specialized fields can earn significantly more.

What does an aero engineer do?

An aerospace engineer designs, develops, tests, and supervises the manufacturing of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They use principles of aerodynamics, materials science, and propulsion systems, often working with CAD software and adhering to safety and regulatory standards. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering tools are essential in this role.

What job categories do people searching Aero Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Aero Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

Infographic showing various Aero Engineer job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,308 per year, or $54 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you interested in developing and processing advanced ceramic materials for demanding applications?
Are you looking to apply your materials skills in a collaborative setting focused on solving complex engineering and materials challenges?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking a Ceramics Researcher to help us develop novel materials and processing methods that will benefit our nation and the world. In this role, you will work hands-on with material synthesis, forming, densification, and characterization, contributing to the development of new materials and processing approaches. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to translate materials concepts into solutions across a range of extreme applications. Within our dynamic and supportive research environment, you will contribute to projects that require both fundamental understanding and practical execution, helping evaluate and improve materials based on performance and processing outcomes.
As a Ceramics Researcher in the Material Sciences Group (R1A), your primary responsibility will be...
  • Processing of ceramic materials including raw material conditioning, material forming, densification, and characterization.
  • Helping to develop new procedures and methods for forming and sintering ceramic materials.
  • Documenting technical work in detail (reports, briefs, procedures, etc.) and present to internal and external team members.
  • Assisting in the evaluation of materials development and processing through analysis of resultant properties.
  • Exploring and creating new ideas that will help us make substantial contributions to our nation's toughest challenges.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a BS in Materials Science & Engineering, Ceramics, Composites, or related field.
  • Have 2+ years of experience synthesizing and processing materials, particularly advanced ceramics, graded materials, ceramic matrix composites, or high temperature oxide and non-oxide based materials.
  • Are knowledgeable of standard materials forming and densification methods (i.e., isostatic pressing, dry pressing, slip casting, hot pressing, EFAS/FAST/SPS, additive manufacturing, pressureless sintering, etc.).
  • Understand the interplay between structure, processing and properties for the design and processing of tailored materials.
  • Are a reliable teammate with excellent communication skills.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Possess a MS with 2+ years of experience in Materials Science & Engineering, Ceramics, Composites, or related field.
  • Have significant and relevant experience in additive manufacturing of ceramics and/or composites.
  • Have experience with extreme test environments (e.g., arc jet, wind tunnel, flight tests, ballistic or blast testing, nuclear etc.).
  • Have experience with modeling and validation of the behavior of materials in complex environments (e.g., aero-thermal, oxidative, high radiation, etc.).
  • Have direct experience characterizing the electromagnetic properties of materials.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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