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Aeronautical Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Aeronautical Design Engineer information

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How much do aeronautical design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for aeronautical design engineer in California is $61.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.21 and $81.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aeronautical design engineer?

Aeronautical Design Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test aircraft and related systems. Their work includes creating blueprints, selecting materials, and ensuring safety and performance standards are met. They collaborate with other engineers and specialists to optimize aircraft structures, aerodynamics, and propulsion systems. Aeronautical Design Engineers often use advanced software and simulation tools to model and analyze their designs before actual production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aeronautical design engineer?

To thrive as an Aeronautical Design Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering principles, fluid dynamics, and structural analysis, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis tools, and industry certifications like EIT or PE are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in collaborative and innovative environments. These skills enable the creation of safe, efficient, and cutting-edge aircraft designs while meeting rigorous industry standards.

What are some common challenges aeronautical design engineers face when working on new aircraft projects?

Aeronautical Design Engineers often face the challenge of balancing innovative design with strict safety regulations and weight constraints. They must collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, such as manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance, to ensure every component meets both performance and regulatory standards. Additionally, managing tight project timelines while adhering to budget limitations can be demanding. Staying updated with evolving technologies and materials is essential for creating competitive and efficient aircraft designs.

What is the difference between Aeronautical Design Engineer vs Aerospace Design Engineer?

AspectAeronautical Design EngineerAerospace Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Aeronautical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or related engineering fields
Work EnvironmentAircraft manufacturing, aviation companies, defense contractorsSpace agencies, satellite companies, aircraft and spacecraft industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in aviation and aircraft designIn both aviation and space exploration sectors

While both roles involve designing aircraft and related systems, Aeronautical Design Engineers focus on aircraft and aviation technology, whereas Aerospace Design Engineers work on both aircraft and spacecraft. The roles share similar qualifications but differ in industry applications and project scope.

What job categories do people searching Aeronautical Design Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Aeronautical Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Aeronautical Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Aeronautical Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Aeronautical Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,552 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Aeronautical Engineer Asc Mgr - L4

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$118K - $219K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 392 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Standard Job Description
You will be the Associate Aeronautical Engineering Manager for the ADP Subsystems Design and Installation team which is responsible for delivering advanced aeronautical design solutions.
What You Will Be Doing
As the Associate Aeronautical Engineering Manager you will provide administrative leadership to the ADP program, balancing managerial duties with hands-on technical work alongside the Design team.
"Your responsibilities will include:"
  • Mentor and develop engineering talent, conducting performance assessments and career planning.
  • Oversee administrative functions, including compensation, awards, and recognition processes.
  • Manage training activities and behavioral actions to ensure team readiness.
  • Identify growth opportunities and drive continuous improvement within the ADP Subsystems.
  • Execute technical design tasks in partnership with the Design Team Manager.

What's In It For You
"We are committed to supporting your work-life balance and overall well-being, offering flexible scheduling options. Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here. Do you want to be part of a company culture that empowers employees to think big, lead with a growth mindset, and make the impossible a reality? We provide the resources and give you the flexibility to enable inspiration and focus - if you have the passion and courage to dream big, work hard, and have fun doing what you love then we want to build a better tomorrow with you."
Who You Are
You are a collaborative leader with proven experience in aeronautical engineering and team management. You thrive in fast-paced environments, excel at mentoring engineers, and bring a strategic mindset to both administrative and technical challenges. Your ability to drive results while fostering a supportive culture makes this role a perfect fit for you.
Further Information About This Opportunity
MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN - This position is located at a facility that requires special access. The selected candidate must possess an active Secret clearance to start.
Proficient in AI prompting as it applies to the position and practice under must be us citizen
Manages the design, development, and testing of a variety of power plants, aircraft, missiles, and parts. Directs establishment of structural specifications, performance of stress analysis, and performance testing. Responsible for coordinating subordinate employee recruitment, selection and training, performance assessment, work assignments, salary, and recognition/disciplinary actions.
Basic Qualifications
• Team Lead Experience.
• Experience in subsystsem design and installation (Airframe/Structural Layout, Detail Part and Assembly).
• Experience with 3D Experience, CATIA, Solidworks, Pro Engineer, Creo, Unigraphics, NX or equivalent 3-D Computer Aided Design (CAD) tool.
• Bachelor's or above Degree from an accredited college in a related engineering discipline.
• Must be a US Citizen with active secret security clearance, position is located at a facility that requires special access.
Desired Skills
• Management Experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working ADP or similar programs, development through sustainment.
• Experience interacting with customers and senior management.
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118000.00 - $219100.00
At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow-both professionally and personally.
The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.
  • Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
  • For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912