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Aerospace Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

TRG

Sales Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

The ideal candidate brings experience working with defense system companies, aerospace engineering organizations, or military procurement programs, and understands how to align technical solutions ...

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All JobsAerospace Engineering JobsAerospace Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Aerospace Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$43.5K

$112.5K

$170.9K

How much do aerospace engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace engineering in Chicago, IL is $112,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $137,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Do aerospace engineers get paid well?

Aerospace engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, education, and location. According to industry data, the median annual wage is higher than the average for all occupations, reflecting the specialized skills and technical knowledge required in the field.

What type of jobs do aerospace engineers do?

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They work on aerodynamics, propulsion systems, structural analysis, and control systems, often using CAD software and simulation tools. Their work can involve research, manufacturing, and testing in laboratories or on production floors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Aerospace Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Aerospace Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerospace Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerospace Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Aerospace Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Aerospace Engineering job openings:

Aerospace Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,511 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

VALOR DFM Engineer - Aerospace & Defense

Ignite Human Capital

Naperville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

To optimize this job description for Indeed, we need to make it highly searchable (using key terms candidates actually type into the search bar) and scannable (so candidates on mobile or scrolling quickly can immediately spot the requirements).

I have cleaned up the layout, added clear bullet points, front-loaded the compliance requirements (since it's an aerospace role), and formatted it to maximize candidate conversion.

VALOR DFM Engineer – Aerospace & Defense

Location: Naperville, IL 60563 (On-site) | Also open to Longmont, CO or Westborough, MA

Salary: $75,000.00 - $85,000.00 a year

Job Type: Full-time, 1st Shift

Job Overview

We are seeking a VALOR DFM (Design for Manufacturing) Engineer to join our Aerospace & Defense Division. In this critical role, you will perform design-for-manufacturing analysis using the VALOR platform to evaluate electronics PCBA assembly layouts.

You will ensure strict adherence to IPC guidelines, component manufacturer specifications, and industry standard practices. By translating VALOR output reports into qualified risk assessments, you will drive key design modifications, improve manufacturability, and maximize overall quality and yield.

Key Responsibilities

  • DFM Analysis: Perform comprehensive Design for Manufacturing (DFM) analysis on complex electronics PCBA assembly layouts using the VALOR platform.

  • Compliance Evaluation: Evaluate PCB/PCBA designs against IPC guidelines, manufacturer recommendations, and defense industry best practices.

  • Risk Reporting: Generate qualified and quantified risk assessment reports in a standardized format, proposing actionable design modifications to improve production quality and yield.

  • Component Research: Research, manage, and interpret electronic part data and component libraries.

  • Design Optimization: Collaborate cross-functionally on PCB panel and array design optimization.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen (Required to comply with ITAR, DFAR, and CUI regulations).

  • Education: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Electrical Engineering (EE).

  • Experience: 3+ years of experience working with basic PCB design guidelines (e.g., real estate constraints, component proximity, thermal relief, copper density/distribution, trace/pad copper balance).

  • Technical Skills: Proven experience managing, viewing, and interpreting PCB files using standard viewers such as:

    • Cadence / Allegro

    • ODB++

    • Gerber / ASCII files

    • KiCAD

    • Siemens Xpedition

    • CAMvu

  • Component Knowledge: Experience searching, validating, and interpreting electronic part data and component libraries.

Preferred:

  • Prior component engineering experience.

  • Hands-on PCBA assembly experience (SMT, Pin-Through-Hole, Press-Fit interconnects).

  • Direct experience with PCB panel/array design.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our employees' health, well-being, and financial security:

  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus a company-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

  • Insurance & Protection: Company-paid basic Life/AD&D insurance, Short-Term Disability (STD), and Long-Term Disability (LTD) insurance, with voluntary supplemental options available.

  • Financial Security: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and a 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a competitive company match.

  • Paid Time Off: Generous Paid Vacation Time, Sick Leave, and company-paid Holidays.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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