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Aerospace Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Designer I

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Responsibilities Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA ... Minimum of 3- 5 years of tooling design experience working in an aerospace, automotive, medical or ...

Designer I

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global ... Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA location. Summary:

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Lead engineering reviews of ground system designs, technical baselines, and architecture decisions * Support ground system integration with satellite segments and user segment systems * Provide ...

... designs, and procedures * Formulate and implement electric propulsion system development activities ... Bachelor's degree in an Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering ...

Designer I

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Verify and improve tooling designs and drawings. Perform calculations and component layout to ... Minimum of 3- 5 years of tooling design experience working in an aerospace, automotive, medical or ...

Firehawk Aerospace is a leading propulsion-focused aerospace and defense company located in Addison ... Designing and operating rocket engine test stands for our solid rocket motors and hybrid engines.

Firehawk Aerospace is a leading propulsion-focused aerospace and defense company located in Addison ... Designing and operating rocket engine test stands for our solid rocket motors and hybrid engines.

Title: Aerospace Engineer Level IV Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security ... Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national ...

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Aerospace Designer information

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$14

$23

$43

How much do aerospace designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerospace designer in the United States is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an aerospace designer do?

An Aerospace Designer is responsible for creating and developing the designs of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They use advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software to draft blueprints and models, focusing on both functionality and safety. Aerospace Designers work closely with engineers and project teams to ensure their designs meet strict industry standards and regulatory requirements. Their work often involves testing prototypes, solving complex technical problems, and making improvements to optimize performance and efficiency.

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

Aerospace Designers require a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, CAD modeling, and typically hold a bachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with technical tools such as CATIA, SolidWorks, and knowledge of simulation software like ANSYS is crucial, along with familiarity with industry standards and certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, teamwork, and effective communication set exceptional designers apart. These competencies ensure the ability to create innovative, safe, and efficient aerospace components while collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.

How do aerospace designers typically collaborate with engineers and other specialists during the development of new aircraft or spacecraft?

Aerospace Designers work closely with multidisciplinary teams that often include aeronautical engineers, structural analysts, materials specialists, and manufacturing experts. Collaboration is essential throughout the design process, from initial concept sketches to detailed CAD models and prototype testing. Designers attend regular meetings to discuss design feasibility, incorporate feedback, and ensure that their concepts meet safety, performance, and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as design iterations are common and input from various departments shapes the final product.

What is the difference between Aerospace Designer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAerospace DesignerAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; design certificationsBachelor's or master's in aerospace or mechanical engineering; professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, CAD labs, R&D departmentsResearch labs, testing facilities, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageAircraft, spacecraft, defense contractorsAircraft manufacturers, space agencies, defense industry

While both roles involve working within the aerospace industry, Aerospace Designers primarily focus on creating detailed designs and CAD models of aircraft or spacecraft components. Aerospace Engineers, on the other hand, are involved in analyzing, testing, and overseeing the development of aerospace systems. The roles often overlap, but engineers typically handle more technical analysis and validation, whereas designers concentrate on conceptualization and detailed design work.

How do you become an aerospace designer?

To become an aerospace designer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software, and obtaining professional certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.
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What states have the most Aerospace Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aerospace Designer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Designer jobs?

For Aerospace Designer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aerospace Designer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,320 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Designer I

Fullerton, CA • On-site

Howmet Aerospace
Aviation • 10K+ employees

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Responsibilities
Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Designer I in our Fullerton, CA location.
Summary:
Design a variety of forming, cutting tools, jigs, dies, and fixtures for fastener and fastening-system production. Work closely with engineering, shop floor, and quality teams to resolve design issues, optimize tool life, and meet cost and performance targets. Apply GD&T, mathematical, and standard tool data to develop and refine tool configurations.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Tool Design: Create tools for fastener manufacturing, installation, an equipment. Develop preliminary sketches, layout, and detailed drawings
  • Documentation: Prepare drawings, change notices, specifications, and inspection standards. Manage Tool Change Control (TCR) records and maintain the tooling database.
  • Design Review & Optimization: Verify and improve tooling designs and drawings. Perform calculations and component layout to optimize design.
  • Colloboration: Work hands-on with manufacturing floor personnel to troubleshoot and resolve tooling issues.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 3- 5 years of tooling design experience working in an aerospace, automotive, medical or related high volume manufacturing environment
  • Proficient in GD&T, SolidWorks (parts & assemblies).
  • Able to create 3-D models and detailed drawings.
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with fastener or metal-forming tooling.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
  • Proficiency in Pro Engineer, MRP/ERP, SolidWorks Manage, and SolidWorks PDM.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:
  • Use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently required to stand and sit.
  • Frequently required to walk and talk or hear.
  • Occasionally lifts and/or moves up to 30 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Benefits/Salary:
The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location. The salary range for this position is $75,000 to $90,000.
About Us
Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email TalentAcquisitionCoE_Howmet@howmet.com
About the Team
Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California. We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we're the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888