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Aerospace Engineering Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UT Tyler

WI · On-site

Assistant or Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering - Aerospace Engineering The University ... PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field at the time of the candidate's start at ...

Firefly Aerospace

GNC Engineer II

Cedar Park, TX · On-site

Advanced degree (master's or PhD) in aerospace engineering or related field with focus on GNC, flight mechanics, or controls * Experience supporting launch vehicle GNC across development, integration ...

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Aerospace Engineering Phd information

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$42K

$108.6K

$165K

How much do aerospace engineering phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 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 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 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.

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.

How much does a PhD in aerospace engineering make?

A PhD in aerospace engineering typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior roles or positions in research and development may offer higher salaries, especially with specialized skills in aerodynamics, propulsion, or systems design.

Is a PhD worth it in aerospace engineering?

A PhD in aerospace engineering can lead to advanced research, teaching positions, and specialized roles in industry or government agencies. However, it requires significant time and effort, and the financial return varies depending on the sector and career path chosen.

What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Engineering Phd jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineering Phd job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,638 per year, or $52.2 per hour.

Research Associate in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

Virginia Department of Human Resource Management
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Virginia Department of Human Resource Managementexternal

$47K - $90K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Research Associate in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Propulsion Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at University of Virginia is seeking a qualified candidate for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position. Research in the laboratory focuses on high-performance computing (HPC) methods in CFD, advanced algorithm development, data assimilation and scientific machine learning.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development of advanced numerical algorithms for large-scale CFD modeling and simulations, including scalable solvers, domain decomposition methods, and data-driven and physics-driven learning techniques. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work as an algorithm developer within the CFD and Propulsion Laboratory and will be responsible for the development, implementation, and analysis of efficient numerical methods for next-generation CFD applications on HPC platforms.

Qualification Requirements By the start date, applicants must have earned a PhD in Mathematics or Statistics or other related field, and be within 5 years post-PhD. Candidates should demonstrate research experience in a few of the following areas:

  • CFD methods, numerical methods and analysis, stability analysis
  • Scalable solvers, and domain decomposition methods
  • C++ programming, parallel programming, GPU programming
  • Stochastic partial differential equations (PDEs), stochastic processes and analysis
  • Model reduction, surrogate model development
  • Uncertainty quantification

Preferred Qualifications Preference will be given to candidates with additional expertise in:

  • AI/ML
  • Supercomputing
  • Large-scale computational infrastructure and workflows
  • Peer-reviewed publications in computational mathematics and/or computational/numerical methods

Salary The anticipated hiring base salary is $53,000. Application Procedure Apply online through the UVA Job Board and search for position number R0083690. Applicants should upload:

  • A cover letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information for three professional references

Please note that multiple documents may be uploaded in the application portal. Application Deadline Review of applications will begin on June 2, 2026; however, the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. This is a one-year appointment. Renewal is contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance. Estimated salary range is $47,500 - $90,000, commensurate with experience.

Questions regarding this position should be directed to Professor Xinfeng Gao at gao@virginia.edu. For questions about the application process, please contact Richard Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu. For more information on the benefits available to Research Associate at UVA, visit hr.virginia.edu/benefits. The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.

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