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Aerospace Engineering Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reporting to the Trusted Space Director of Onsite Operations, the successful candidate will be part ... Qualifications * Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering (preferred) or related ...

Reporting to the Trusted Space Director of Onsite Operations, the successful candidate will be part ... Qualifications * Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering (preferred) or related ...

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Aerospace Engineering Director information

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$73K

$194.7K

$254K

How much do aerospace engineering director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineering director in the United States is $194,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,500.00 and $253,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Aerospace Engineering Director, you need a robust background in aerospace engineering, project management experience, and typically a relevant advanced degree (such as a Master's in Engineering or an MBA). Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, regulatory compliance systems, and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are often required. Outstanding leadership, strategic decision-making, and strong communication skills differentiate top performers in this role. These skills and qualifications are critical for overseeing complex projects, leading multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring that rigorous engineering standards and business goals are met.

What is an Aerospace Engineering Director job?

An Aerospace Engineering Director oversees the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. They lead engineering teams, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Their role involves strategic planning, collaborating with executives, and integrating new technologies to enhance aerospace products. Strong leadership, technical expertise, and project management skills are essential for success in this position.

What are some common challenges faced by Aerospace Engineering Directors in their daily work?

Aerospace Engineering Directors often manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously, requiring excellent prioritization and time management skills. They must regularly address technical challenges, regulatory compliance issues, and evolving client demands, often under tight deadlines. Additionally, this role involves balancing the needs of engineering teams, upper management, and external stakeholders while ensuring projects remain on schedule and within budget. Adaptability, proactive problem-solving, and strong leadership are key to successfully navigating these challenges and maintaining project momentum.

More about Aerospace Engineering Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerospace Engineering Director jobs? Cities with the most Aerospace Engineering Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Aerospace Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Aerospace Engineering Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerospace Engineering Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineering Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $194,709 per year, or $93.6 per hour.
Aerospace Software Embedded Engineering Director

Aerospace Software Embedded Engineering Director

Woodward

Niles, IL

$230K - $276K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Woodward Inc. rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.

We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities, creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.

Woodward supports our members' wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position. Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Estimated annual base pay: $184,000 (minimum) - $230,000 (midpoint) - $276,000 (maximum)

  • All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity
  • 401(k) match (4.5%)
  • Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%) & Annual Time Based Equity (Stock)
  • Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members
  • 12 paid holidays
  • Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire
  • Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave
  • Paid parental leave
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits
  • Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life
  • Member referral bonus
  • Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending
  • Voluntary benefits, including:
    • Home / Auto Insurance discounts
    • Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military Leave

Ready to Lead and Innovate?

If you're a visionary Director of Engineering with a passion for software and a drive to shape the future of aerospace technology, this is your opportunity to make an impact at a global scale.

As Director of Engineering, you'll lead a high-performing organization that designs, develops, and sustains cutting-edge products and systems for commercial aerospace. Reporting directly to the VP of Engineering, you'll set the strategic direction, influence technical excellence, and guide a global team of 80+ talented software engineers. Your leadership will ensure compliance with the most rigorous standards-DO-178 DAL A and MIL-STD-882-while fostering innovation and breakthrough solutions.

Why This Role Matters

  • Shape the Future: Drive systemic improvements and establish a strong design culture that delivers world-class, compliant products.
  • Lead at Scale: Mentor and inspire a global team, championing career growth and aligning engineering excellence with organizational goals.
  • Strategic Influence: Own product roadmaps, budgets, and infrastructure planning while representing the company at industry events and shaping competitive strategies.
  • Innovate Relentlessly: Apply Design for Six Sigma, lean principles, Novel Agile Methodologies, and cutting-edge methods to eliminate waste and accelerate innovation.

What You'll Bring

  • Proven leadership in software engineering and organizational management.
  • Expertise in aerospace development standards and quality systems.
  • Strong technical depth combined with financial acumen and market insight.
  • Exceptional communication and stakeholder influence skills.
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

This isn't just a job-it's a chance to leave your mark on the next generation of aerospace technology while leading a team that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and excellence.

This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).

Woodward is an Equal Opportunity Employer

EO/AA/M/F/Disabled/Protected Veterans

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