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Aeronautical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

A Bachelor of Science Degree in engineering (e.g. civil, electrical, electronic, chemical, industrial, mechanical, aeronautical, avionics, environmental, or computer) or related field Salary: $150 ...

Engineer IV

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $160K/yr

A Bachelor of Science Degree in engineering (e.g. civil, electrical, electronic, chemical, industrial, mechanical, aeronautical, avionics, environmental, or computer) or related field Salary: $150 ...

C: $78,120 - $122,065 Sr. Aviation Analyst III Master's degree in aeronautics, aeronautical engineering, electrical engineering or similar aviation related discipline and 12 years of direct aviation ...

Engineer IV

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $160K/yr

A Bachelor of Science Degree in engineering (e.g. civil, electrical, electronic, chemical, industrial, mechanical, aeronautical, avionics, environmental, or computer) or related field Salary: $150 ...

Engineer IV

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $160K/yr

A Bachelor of Science Degree in engineering (e.g. civil, electrical, electronic, chemical, industrial, mechanical, aeronautical, avionics, environmental, or computer) or related field Salary: $150 ...

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $225K/yr

... Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers. Perks of being a team member owner include: * Long-term financial security

... Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers. Perks of being a team member owner include: * Long-term financial security

... Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers. Perks of being a team member owner include: * Long-term financial security

Qualifications • Bachelor's degree in Systems, Aeronautical, Mechanical, Test Engineering, Physics, or related technical field, plus 5+ years of relevant experience. • Background in engineering ...

... Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers. Perks of being a team member owner include: * Long-term financial security

GNC Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$125K - $203K/yr

... Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers. Perks of being a team member owner include: * Long-term financial security

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Systems, Aeronautical, Mechanical, Test Engineering, Physics, or related technical field, plus 5+ years of relevant experience. Background in engineering analysis ...

Electrical, software, electrical, and/or aeronautical engineering background would be beneficial but not required. Experience: * 5 - 10 years of experience preferred Security Clearance: * Ability to ...

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Aeronautical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$24

$65

$102

How much do aeronautical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for aeronautical engineer in Reston, VA is $65.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.52 and $86.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aeronautical engineer?

An aeronautical engineer works with aircraft and their propulsion systems. As an aeronautical engineer, your job is to design, develop, and implement new procedures and technologies for the creation and maintenance of aircraft components. Specific duties involve testing new designs and materials, assessing parts that were damaged or malfunctioned during flight, and collaborating with designers, pilots, and other engineers. You play an essential role in the aircraft manufacturing process. Aeronautical engineer positions are typically available with aircraft and aerospace manufacturers, government agencies, defense contractors, and aerospace engineering firms.

What is the difference between Aeronautical Engineer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAeronautical EngineerAerospace Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Aeronautical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's in Aerospace Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, test aircraft and related systemsDesign, develop, test aircraft and spacecraft
Industry UsagePrimarily in aviation industryIn both aviation and space industries

Both aeronautical and aerospace engineers share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, focusing on aircraft design and testing. However, aerospace engineers have a broader scope, including spacecraft and satellites, making their roles more diverse within the aerospace industry.

What does an aeronautical engineer do?

An aeronautical engineer designs, develops, tests, and helps manufacture aircraft such as airplanes and helicopters. They focus on the aerodynamic performance, materials, structural integrity, and systems of air vehicles. Their responsibilities include ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations, as well as addressing environmental and economic concerns in aviation. Aeronautical engineers often work for aerospace companies, government agencies, or research organizations.

What are some typical challenges faced by aeronautical engineers when working on new aircraft designs?

Aeronautical engineers often face challenges such as meeting stringent safety regulations, balancing weight and fuel efficiency, and integrating advanced technologies within strict timelines. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—like avionics, materials science, and manufacturing—is essential to address these complexities. Staying up-to-date with evolving industry standards and addressing unexpected technical issues during prototype testing are also common aspects of the role.

What jobs can an aeronautical engineer do?

An aeronautical engineer can work in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. They often work for aerospace manufacturers, government agencies, or research institutions, utilizing skills in aerodynamics, materials, and propulsion. Certification and knowledge of CAD software are also important in this field.

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

To thrive as an Aeronautical Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, physics, mathematics, and typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like MATLAB or ANSYS, and industry certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license are highly valued. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and presenting technical information. These skills and qualifications are essential for developing safe, innovative, and efficient aircraft and aerospace systems in a highly regulated, multidisciplinary environment.
What job categories do people searching Aeronautical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Aeronautical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Aeronautical Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Aeronautical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Aeronautical Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,515 per year, or $65.2 per hour.

Principle Systems Engineer

Think Tank, Inc.

Silver Spring, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

*Authorized to work in the US required; US Citizenship preferred

*Remote Position TBD

*Applicants residing in the DMV area preferred as the client is located in Silver Spring, MD

*Three references required

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

The Principle Systems Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for engineering and systems activities in support of the NOAA. This position provides organization-wide engineering leadership and ensures the technical integrity, integration, and performance of complex marine, aviation, and associated mission platforms throughout their life cycles.

The Principle Systems Engineer leads and oversees multidisciplinary engineering efforts supporting the planning, design, development, acquisition, construction, operation, maintenance, and modernization of NOAA ships, aircraft (manned and unmanned), and supporting systems in accordance with mission requirements and regulatory standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Serve as the senior technical authority and subject matter expert for complex, mission-critical marine, aviation, and supporting systems.
  • Provide organization-wide engineering leadership across multidisciplinary engineering domains, ensuring technical integrity and integration.
  • Direct engineering strategic planning, requirements analysis, concept development, and feasibility assessments.
  • Oversee systems design, integration, test and evaluation, and risk mitigation for new and existing platforms.
  • Provide technical oversight for system construction, modification, modernization, and life-cycle sustainment activities.
  • Advise senior leadership on technical risks, trade-offs, and engineering solutions while ensuring regulatory and safety compliance.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering management, or a related technical discipline
  • 10+ years of experience applying an organization-wide engineering discipline across strategic planning, requirements analysis, systems design, engineering, integration, test and evaluation, construction, and program implementation.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting complex aeronautical, marine, mechanical, electrical, civil, or systems engineering projects.
  • Proven ability to act as a senior technical authority on complex or high-risk engineering systems.
  • Executive-level leadership presence with the ability to manage complex, mission-critical programs.
  • Strong understanding of federal contracting environments and compliance requirements.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Ability to adapt program strategies in response to evolving organizational goals, regulations, and mission needs.
  • Experience working with NOAA preferred

Think Tank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Compensation for the successful candidate will be determined based on a variety of factors, including education, relevant work experience, work location, specific job responsibilities, professional certifications, and other job-related criteria.

Think Tank also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; long-term and short-term disability; and a 401(k) plan. All benefits are subject to eligibility requirements.