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How much do aerospace defense company jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace defense company in the United States is $26.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerospace defense company?

An aerospace defense company is a business that designs, manufactures, and supports systems, equipment, and technologies for both the aerospace and defense sectors. These companies produce products such as aircraft, satellites, missiles, and defense systems for military and sometimes civilian use. They often work closely with government agencies to provide solutions for national security, surveillance, and space exploration. Aerospace defense companies play a crucial role in advancing technology and protecting national interests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an aerospace defense company, and why are they important?

To excel in an Aerospace Defense Company, professionals typically need a strong background in engineering, physics, or computer science, often with relevant degrees and security clearances. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and compliance systems like ITAR or AS9100 is commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills set individuals apart in multidisciplinary, high-stakes environments. These competencies ensure the development of innovative, reliable solutions while meeting strict safety, security, and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced when working in an aerospace defense company, and how can employees overcome them?

Employees in aerospace defense companies often encounter challenges such as navigating strict regulatory requirements, working with cutting-edge and confidential technology, and coordinating across multidisciplinary teams. To overcome these, it’s important to stay current on industry regulations, actively participate in ongoing training, and maintain clear communication with colleagues from engineering, quality assurance, and project management. Embracing a collaborative mindset and seeking mentorship within the organization can also help employees adapt quickly and contribute effectively to complex projects.

What is the difference between Aerospace Defense Company vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAerospace Defense CompanyAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering; security clearances may be neededBachelor's degree in aerospace or related engineering; advanced roles may require a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and manufacture defense-related aerospace systems; often in labs, manufacturing plants, or R&D centersDesign, analyze, and test aerospace systems; work in labs, offices, or on manufacturing floors
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense contractors, government agencies, and aerospace manufacturersEmployers include aerospace firms, government agencies, and research institutions

In summary, an Aerospace Defense Company is an organization that develops defense-related aerospace systems, while an Aerospace Engineer is a professional who designs and tests these systems. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but the company focuses on manufacturing and project management, whereas the engineer focuses on technical design and analysis.

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What job categories do people searching Aerospace Defense Company jobs look for?

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Aerospace Defense Company jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Defense Company job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,862 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Project Manager, Aerospace & Defense

Mistras Group, Inc.-Shop

Cudahy, CA

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

This position is remote; however, preference will be given to candidates located in the Los Angeles/Cudahy area to support occasional onsite collaboration and business needs.

The Project Manager (PM) will lead and oversee the project execution for key accounts across multiple divisions within the Aerospace & Defense business unit. In this role, the PM will own and lead business review(s), stakeholder engagement/management, and partner with operations and commercial leadership to foster continuous improvement and operational excellence. You will ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the exacting quality and compliance standards required by the aerospace and defense industry.

This position requires strong communication and organizational skills, deep knowledge of aerospace quality systems, and the ability to build trusted relationships with customers while driving operational excellence and zero-incident safety performance.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Provide leadership, oversight, and day-to-day management of all MISTRAS Aerospace & Defense projects, including NDT/NDI (UT, RT, PT, MT, VT, PAUT, and related advanced methods), access services, and supporting industrial services.
  • Manage project scope, schedule, resources, budget, and deliverables from planning through closeout; develop and implement planning, cost control, and progress-tracking systems.
  • Build and sustain strong customer relationships; serve as the primary point of contact for clients, delivering regular status updates, KPI reports, and ensuring 100% customer satisfaction.
  • Ensure strict adherence to HSE, quality, and regulatory requirements (including applicable aerospace/defense standards such as Nadcap, AS9100, ITAR, and customer-specific procedures).
  • Lead risk management efforts, resolve field issues and unanticipated complexities promptly, and drive continuous improvement in safety, quality, and efficiency.
  • Assist with proposal development, scope definition, and budget estimation for new and ongoing Aerospace & Defense projects.
  • Prepare and deliver accurate daily/weekly status reports, staffing plans, work-location tracking, and performance metrics to both customers and internal leadership.
  • Demonstrate accessible, visible leadership that promotes positive employee morale, accountability, and adherence to company policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Project Management, or a related technical field preferred.
  • 5+ years of Project Management, with at least 3 years managing Tier 1 or Tier 2 Suppliers (Aerospace & Defense experience strongly preferred).
  • Solid technical background in testing, inspections, and certifications, preferably within non-destructive test methods.
  • Prior experience working in regulated industries with strict quality, safety, and compliance requirements (aerospace, defense, or similar highly regulated sectors).
  • Strong customer relationship and communication skills (written and verbal); proven ability to manage stakeholders and deliver under pressure.
  • Demonstrated leadership of cross-functional teams with a track record of maintaining exceptional HSE performance and meeting project KPIs.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools; experience with data extraction, KPI reporting, and large worklists/spreadsheets.
  • Willingness and ability to maintain a strong leadership presence, including travel to customer sites as required.
  • S. citizenship or ability to meet ITAR and other security/compliance requirements may be necessary depending on specific projects; active or ability to obtain security clearance preferred for certain defense work.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • PMP or equivalent project management certification.
  • API, ASNT, or other relevant NDT certifications.
  • Experience with aerospace primes, defense contractors, or FAA-related work.
  • Familiarity with MISTRAS systems or similar asset integrity/project management platforms.

Additional Requirements:

  • Pass pre-employment background check, alcohol/drug screen, and any required medical evaluations.
  • Maintain relevant certifications and continue professional development as required.
  • Demonstrate the highest commitment to safety, quality culture, and ethical conduct in all
The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $140,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.