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Aerospace Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Engineering Manager Location: Newport News, VA Job Type: Direct Hire Starting Salary: $130,000/year (Higher salary available based on experience) Position Overview Lead a multi-discipline ...

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Aerospace Engineering Manager Location: Newport News, VA Job Type: Direct Hire Starting Salary: $130,000/year (Higher salary available based on experience) Position Overview Lead a multi-discipline ...

New

Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineers

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

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Some elements of aerospace engineering are aerodynamics, propulsion, control or flight design and structures. Aerospace engineering addresses the integration of all components that constitute an ...

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Aerospace Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: Interim_Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain:

GNC Aerospace Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Aerospace Engr Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: Interim_Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain:

Candidates must possess a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related degree (advanced degrees preferred) * Candidates must possess at least 5 years of work experience

Candidates must possess a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related degree (advanced degrees preferred) * Candidates must possess at least 5 years of work experience

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Aerospace Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$41.6K

$107.7K

$163.6K

How much do aerospace engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineering in Virginia is $107,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,700.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerospace engineer?

To thrive as an Aerospace Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards like FAA regulations and certifications such as EIT or PE are commonly required. Problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing, testing, and collaborating on complex aerospace projects. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and innovation necessary in the demanding aerospace industry.

What are some common challenges aerospace engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Aerospace engineers often collaborate with professionals from various disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across different specialties, as each team may use distinct terminology and have unique technical priorities. Balancing conflicting requirements—like optimizing for both weight reduction and structural integrity—requires strong problem-solving and negotiation skills. Building effective working relationships and maintaining flexibility are key to overcoming these challenges and achieving successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Aerospace Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectAerospace EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Aeronautical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentAircraft, spacecraft, and defense industriesManufacturing, energy, automotive, and robotics sectors
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aerospace firms, government agenciesManufacturers, engineering consultancies, research labs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Aerospace Engineering and Mechanical Engineering share foundational engineering principles, Aerospace Engineering specializes in aircraft and spacecraft design, aerodynamics, and propulsion systems. Mechanical Engineering offers a broader scope, covering various industries like automotive, energy, and manufacturing. The choice depends on your interest in aerospace-specific projects versus a wider range of mechanical systems.

What does an aerospace engineer do?

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They are responsible for improving flight safety, fuel efficiency, speed, and weight, while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Their work can involve designing new technologies for aviation and space exploration, analyzing project proposals, and overseeing manufacturing and maintenance processes. Aerospace engineers typically specialize in either aeronautical (aircraft) or astronautical (spacecraft) engineering.
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Aerospace Engineering jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Aerospace Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,706 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Aerospace Engineering Manager

Qualdoc

Newport News, VA • On-site

$130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Aerospace Engineering Manager
Location: Newport News, VA
Job Type: Direct Hire
Starting Salary: $130,000/year (Higher salary available based on experience)
Position Overview
Lead a multi-discipline engineering organization supporting Mechanical, Structural, Electrical, and Aerodynamic programs. This role oversees engineering strategy, technical execution, team development, program delivery, and product development from initial feasibility through design, qualification testing, and production transition.
Key Responsibilities
  • Direct engineering activities across multiple concurrent programs.
  • Plan engineering resources, staffing, schedules, workloads, budgets, estimates, and equipment needs.
  • Build, coach, and develop a high-performing engineering team.
  • Establish department goals, KPIs, priorities, and performance expectations.
  • Monitor program milestones and communicate progress, risks, and corrective actions to senior leadership.
  • Lead design reviews and maintain engineering standards, guidelines, and development processes.
  • Ensure technical work meets applicable quality, safety, FAA, and certification requirements.
  • Provide technical leadership to Sales and Operations for engineering strategy and delivery planning.
  • Support business development, proposals, technical compliance matrices, and engineering feasibility assessments.
  • Identify root causes of missed targets and implement corrective actions, process improvements, and training.
  • Promote engineering innovation while maintaining focus on safety, manufacturability, quality, and cost effectiveness.
  • Maintain current knowledge of aerospace engineering practices, tools, and methods.
  • Support AS9100, Lean, and other quality initiatives.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 10+ years of progressive engineering management experience, preferably in aerospace or defense.
  • Experience with aerospace product development, including STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) and FAA certification processes.
  • 5+ years of experience with FAR compliance and signature authority in an FAA and/or military certification environment.
  • Experience managing multiple engineering programs with varying scope and complexity.
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks and Microsoft Office.
  • Strong project management, planning, organizational, and team leadership skills.
  • Ability to motivate teams, manage deadlines, and influence cross-functional stakeholders.
  • Strong customer relationship, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Ability to evaluate complex business and technical requirements.
  • Broad knowledge of engineering, aircraft modification, FAA certification, and STC processes.
  • U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Business or financial background, including Business Administration or Finance.
  • Familiarity with commercial and Department of Defense (DOD) contracting processes.

Security & Other Requirements
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
  • Clearance eligibility is subject to applicable federal requirements.
  • Must participate in a Drug Free Workplace Drug Testing Program.
  • Willingness to complete ongoing engineering, compliance, certification, AS9100, and Lean training as required.
  • Travel: Up to 50% domestic and international travel.
  • Physical: Occasionally lift or move bulky items weighing more than 50 lbs.

Performance Expectations
Success in this role will be measured by:
  • Engineering team productivity and utilization.
  • Quality and FAA/MCO compliance results.
  • Program milestone and schedule performance.
  • Effectiveness of design review, governance, and risk management.
  • On-time qualification testing and transition to production.
  • Continuous improvement, including root-cause closure, process adoption, and training effectiveness.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020