1

Aerospace Engineering Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

This role provides deep engineering expertise to the development, integration, and sustainment of ... Master's degree or PhD in a technical discipline Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or ...

This role provides deep engineering expertise across the missile warning ground processing, mission ... or PhD in a technical discipline Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, NORAD/USNORTHCOM, or ...

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$195K - $250K/yr

This role brings deep, recognized expertise in aerospace systems engineering and serves as a ... or PhD in a technical discipline Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or predecessor Space Force ...

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

This position will lead engineering reviews of ground system designs, contribute to ground ... Master's degree or PhD in a technical discipline * Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or ...

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

Lead engineering reviews of ground processing architectures, mission management systems, and ... Master's degree or PhD in a technical discipline * Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, NORAD ...

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$195K - $250K/yr

This role brings deep, recognized expertise in aerospace systems engineering and serves as a ... Master's or PhD in a technical discipline * Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or predecessor ...

... in Aerospace Engineering, PhD degree is preferred in Aerospace Engineering • You must have a minimum of 10 years of pertinent experience in the development of Flight Control Laws for FBW (Fly-By ...

... in Aerospace Engineering, PhD degree is preferred in Aerospace Engineering • You must have a minimum of 10 years of pertinent experience in the development of Flight Control Laws for FBW (Fly-By ...

... in Aerospace Engineering, PhD degree is preferred in Aerospace Engineering • You must have a minimum of 10 years of pertinent experience in the development of Flight Control Laws for FBW (Fly-By ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Aerospace Engineering Phd information

See salary details

$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do aerospace engineering phd jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineering phd in the United States is $108,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aerospace Engineering Phd vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAerospace Engineering PhdAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Aerospace Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, advanced R&D projectsDesign, development, testing in industry or government agencies
Industry UsageResearch, academia, specialized R&D rolesProduct development, manufacturing, systems engineering

The main difference between an Aerospace Engineering Phd and an Aerospace Engineer lies in their education level and focus. A Phd holder typically engages in advanced research, teaching, or specialized R&D, while an Aerospace Engineer applies engineering principles to design and develop aerospace systems. Both roles are vital in the aerospace industry but serve different functions based on expertise and experience.

What is an Aerospace Engineering PhD?

An Aerospace Engineering PhD is a doctoral-level degree focused on advanced research in the design, development, testing, and production of aircraft and spacecraft. Students in this program conduct original research, often contributing new knowledge to areas like aerodynamics, propulsion, materials, or space systems. Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and advanced industry positions. The program typically involves coursework, comprehensive exams, and the completion of a dissertation.

What jobs can I get with a PhD in aerospace engineering?

A PhD in aerospace engineering qualifies individuals for advanced roles such as aerospace research scientist, flight systems engineer, or university professor. Graduates often work in aircraft design, space exploration, defense, or research institutions, utilizing skills in aerodynamics, propulsion, and simulation tools. These positions typically require strong analytical abilities and familiarity with CAD software and testing environments.

Is it worth getting a PhD in aerospace engineering?

A PhD in aerospace engineering can enhance expertise, qualify individuals for research, development, and academic roles, and often lead to higher salaries. However, it requires significant time and financial investment, and job prospects depend on industry demand and specialization areas.

How much can you make with a PhD in aerospace engineering?

Aerospace engineering PhD holders typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector such as defense, research, or manufacturing. Senior roles or positions in government agencies and private companies often offer higher salaries, especially with specialized skills in aerodynamics, propulsion, or systems design.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in design and systems, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in the aerospace industry or at major defense contractors. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, and other incentives, typically in senior management or executive positions.

What are some common research challenges faced by Aerospace Engineering PhD candidates during their studies?

Aerospace Engineering PhD candidates often encounter challenges such as narrowing down a research topic that is both innovative and feasible within resource and time constraints. They may also face difficulties in securing funding, accessing specialized laboratory equipment, or collaborating effectively with interdisciplinary teams. Balancing coursework, teaching responsibilities, and research deadlines can be demanding, but these experiences are valuable for developing project management and problem-solving skills essential for a career in academia or industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerospace Engineering PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerospace Engineering PhD, you need advanced knowledge in aerodynamics, propulsion, structural analysis, and a doctoral degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Expertise in simulation software like MATLAB, ANSYS, and proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++ are commonly required, along with research experience and publications. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are essential for driving innovation, leading complex research projects, and effectively sharing technical findings in the highly specialized aerospace sector.
Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace Engineer

Alutiiq

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

McCallie Associates, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Alutiiq, LLC, is accepting applications for a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Aerospace Engineer - Space Force Mission Ground Systems to support the U.S. Space Force's mission ground systems for a critical Space Sensing mission area. This role provides deep engineering expertise to the development, integration, and sustainment of ground systems supporting missile warning satellite constellations - including command and control infrastructure, mission processing, and ground segment architecture across multiple operational locations

This position will lead engineering reviews of ground system designs, contribute to ground architecture decisions, and support integration of ground segments with the broader missile warning system-of-systems. Provide SME-level aerospace engineering expertise for missile warning mission ground systems including command and control, mission processing, and ground segment architecture Lead engineering reviews of ground system designs, technical baselines, and architecture decisions Support ground system integration with satellite segments and user segment systems Provide engineering oversight for Life Cycle Sustainment Plan execution including Ground System Architecture (GSA) sustainment Engage with contractor program teams developing or sustaining ground processing, control, and dissemination systems Review and contribute to engineering change proposals, task change proposals, and configuration change board activities Support engineering coordination with operational sites (Buckley SFB, Schriever SFB, Boulder CO) and program contractor facilities Prepare technical briefings, engineering position papers, and architecture assessments for senior Government audiences This opportunity is for a POTENTIAL CONTRACT award and is contingent upon the contract being awarded. Consideration for a potential contract may require a signed letter of intent.

If the contract is awarded, another position posting will be available on the Company Careers portal.Active Secret clearance (TS or TS/SCI eligibility preferred; ability to obtain TS/SCI required) U.S. Citizenship Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline from an ABET-accredited institution Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible aerospace engineering experience, with demonstrated SME-level depth in satellite ground systems, command and control, or mission ground processing Demonstrated experience with DoD satellite ground systems - command and control infrastructure, mission processing, ground architecture, or ground sustainment Experience with ground system Life Cycle Sustainment Plan execution Strong written and verbal communication; demonstrated ability to brief senior Government audiences Preferred Qualifications Master's degree or PhD in a technical discipline Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or predecessor Space Force / Air Force space organizations Experience with SBIRS ground systems, Next-Gen OPIR ground, or modernization of legacy missile warning ground infrastructure Familiarity with Ground System Architecture (GSA) and associated sustainment frameworks Expected salary range: $170,000 to $210,000 per yearActive Secret clearance (TS or TS/SCI eligibility preferred; ability to obtain TS/SCI required) U.S. Citizenship Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline from an ABET-accredited institution Minimum 15 years of progressively responsible aerospace engineering experience, with demonstrated SME-level depth in satellite ground systems, command and control, or mission ground processing Demonstrated experience with DoD satellite ground systems - command and control infrastructure, mission processing, ground architecture, or ground sustainment Experience with ground system Life Cycle Sustainment Plan execution Strong written and verbal communication; demonstrated ability to brief senior Government audiences Preferred Qualifications Master's degree or PhD in a technical discipline Prior direct support to SSC/SN, SMC, or predecessor Space Force / Air Force space organizations Experience with SBIRS ground systems, Next-Gen OPIR ground, or modernization of legacy missile warning ground infrastructure Familiarity with Ground System Architecture (GSA) and associated sustainment frameworks Expected salary range: $170,000 to $210,000 per year


Alutiiq logo

About Alutiiq

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Anchorage, AK, US

Year founded

1999

Social media