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Aerospace Engineer Graduate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Rocket Motor Quality Engineer

Culpeper, VA ยท Hybrid

$84K - $156K/yr

... Aerospace industry. Essential Functions: Senior Quality Engineers support defense propulsion ... Graduate Degree and a minimum of 4 years of prior Quality Engineering experience. In lieu of a ...

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Aerospace Engineer Graduate information

What jobs can I get after aerospace engineering?

Aerospace engineering graduates can pursue roles such as aerospace engineer, aircraft design engineer, propulsion engineer, systems engineer, or research scientist. These positions often require knowledge of CAD software, aerodynamics, materials science, and may involve working in design, testing, or manufacturing environments.

What is an Aerospace Engineer Graduate job?

An Aerospace Engineer Graduate job is an entry-level position for recent graduates in aerospace engineering. It typically involves assisting in the design, analysis, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, or related systems. Graduates may work on aerodynamics, propulsion, materials, or structural components under the guidance of senior engineers. These roles help build practical experience and technical skills necessary for career growth in the aerospace industry.

Is 3.3 a good GPA for aerospace engineering?

A 3.3 GPA for an aerospace engineering graduate is considered average to slightly below average, as many employers prefer GPAs of 3.0 or higher. Strong technical skills, internships, and project experience can be more important than GPA in this field. Demonstrating proficiency with CAD tools and programming can enhance job prospects regardless of GPA.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced aerospace engineers working in senior leadership roles or specialized fields such as defense or space exploration can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in areas like propulsion, avionics, or systems engineering, along with leadership responsibilities and security clearances.

What are some typical career paths and advancement opportunities for Aerospace Engineer Graduates?

As an Aerospace Engineer Graduate, you often start in entry-level engineering roles, working alongside senior engineers on design, analysis, and testing projects. Over time, you can progress to specialized roles in areas such as aerodynamics, systems engineering, or propulsion, or move into project management and leadership positions. Many graduates also have opportunities to pursue further education or professional certifications (like the Professional Engineer license) to advance their careers. Aerospace companies frequently support ongoing training and encourage involvement in multidisciplinary teams, giving you the chance to develop new skills and take on increased responsibility as you gain experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aerospace Engineer Graduate position, and why are they important?

Aerospace Engineer Graduates need a solid grasp of aerodynamics, propulsion, structural analysis, and mathematics, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools, finite element analysis (FEA), and industry standards or certifications like EIT is important. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set candidates apart. These competencies are vital to ensure safety, innovation, and collaboration in the complex and regulated aerospace industry.

What do aerospace engineers do after graduation?

After graduation, aerospace engineers typically pursue entry-level positions in aircraft, spacecraft, or defense industries, working on design, development, testing, and manufacturing of aerospace systems. They often use CAD software, perform simulations, and may obtain professional certifications to advance their careers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineer Graduate jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Aerospace Engineer Graduate jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Engineer Graduate jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Engineer Graduate jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Aerospace Engineer Graduate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Aerospace Engineer Graduate job openings:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineer Graduate job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Senior Communications Engineer, Modeling and Simulation

Senior Communications Engineer, Modeling and Simulation

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace's strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The divisionleveragesa broad array of engineering disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities.

The Communication and Ground Architectures Performance Department (CGAPD) within the Integrated Performance Subdivision (IPS)deliversmodeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) solutionsthat help shape how the nation's most critical space communication and ground systems are designed,acquired, and evolved. Ourmodeling and performanceassessmentsaroundcommunication architectures, networks, and mission managementstrategiesdirectlyinform and influence decisions formultiplecustomers including USAF/USSF, the Intelligence Community, and other government customers.

Work Model:

This full-time position requiresat least4 days/week ofonsite work inChantilly, VA,Colorado Springs, COS, or El Segundo, CA.

WhatYou'llBe Doing

  • Leadanalysisteamswhoserecommendationsdirectly shapeacquisitionand developmentdecisions forthe nation'sspace-based and terrestrialcommunicationsystems

  • Serve as a go-to technical authority in one or more of the areas of:

    • Communicationandground architecture performance (e.g.coverage and capacityassessments, architecture trade studies,end-to-endarchitectureevaluations)
    • Network modeling(e.g.topology designand optimization, throughput/latency analysis, network resilience)
    • Schedulingandmission management(e.g.satellite collection/contact scheduling, resource allocation,CONOPS development)
  • Perform end-to-end (E2E) performance evaluations and analysis-of-alternatives (AoA) using internally developed analysis capabilities

  • Drive the development of staff through training, mentoring, and coaching across a national organization

  • Own the coordinationofcomplex technical tasks across multiplecustomers,balancingresourcesand priorities to deliver time-sensitive analysis

  • Translate complex analysis into clear, compelling briefings for technical leads, senior leadership, and government customers

  • DriveinnovationincorporateM&Scapabilities supporting the analysis of communication and ground systems

What You Need to be Successful

MinimumRequirements:

Engineering Specialist

  • B.S degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, or other engineering with a strong communications background

  • Typically,6 or more years of industry experience, withdemonstratedexperience leading engineering studies or analysis teams

  • Professional experience in one or more of the following specific national security space or intelligence mission areas: communication and ground infrastructures, signals intelligence, geo-spatial intelligence, space surveillance, navigationsystemsor space protection

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present methods and results effectively in briefings, formal reports, and informal communications

  • Experiencewith one or more software languages that may include Python, C++, or MATLAB

  • This position requires the ability to obtain andmaintaina security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship isrequiredto obtain a security clearance.

In addition to the above, theminimumrequirements forSeniorEngineering Specialistinclude:

  • Typically,10or more years of industry experience, withdemonstratedexperience leading engineering studies and analysis teams, managing/coordinating complex technical tasks, and translating customer needs into tasks for team members

  • Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to change, and to help customers manage ambiguity

  • Significant professional experience in one or more of the following specific national security space or intelligence mission areas: communication and ground infrastructures, signals intelligence, geo-spatial intelligence, space surveillance, navigationsystemsor space protection

  • Excellent interpersonal skills andprovenability to work effectively with customers, Aerospace program offices, and contractors

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Graduate degree in one of the fields of study mentioned above

  • CurrentTS/SCI security clearancewith polygraph

  • Proficiencywith one or more software languages that may include Python, C++, or MATLAB

  • Significant experienceinIntelligence Community or US Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$129,000.00 - $249,600.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.