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Aerospace Science Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Boulder, CO ยท Hybrid

$127K - $167K/yr

This role is best suited to engineers who enjoy solving technically challenging problems and have experience working on complex systems in industries such as aerospace, scientific computing ...

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Aerospace Science information

See Colorado salary details

$25.8K

$50.9K

$83.1K

How much do aerospace science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace science in Colorado is $50,884.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $54,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aerospace Science vs Aerospace Engineering?

AspectAerospace ScienceAerospace Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in aerospace science or related fieldBachelor's or master's in aerospace engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, testing facilities, government agenciesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Industry UsageResearch, testing, and development of aerospace systemsDesign, development, and manufacturing of aircraft and spacecraft

While both careers focus on aerospace, Aerospace Science emphasizes research, testing, and understanding aerospace systems, often involving laboratory work. Aerospace Engineering centers on designing and building aircraft and spacecraft. Both fields require related credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their core functions differ.

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

To thrive in Aerospace Science, a strong background in physics, mathematics, engineering principles, and typically a degree in aerospace engineering or a related field is essential. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as MATLAB, CAD tools, and simulation systems, as well as relevant certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication set candidates apart in multidisciplinary project environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, analyzing, and testing aerospace systems while ensuring safety, innovation, and regulatory compliance.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a professional working in aerospace science?

Aerospace science professionals typically divide their days among research, data analysis, and hands-on experimentation. Their daily tasks often include designing and testing aircraft or spacecraft components, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and using advanced simulation software to model aerodynamics or structural integrity. They may also be responsible for documenting findings, preparing technical reports, and presenting results to stakeholders. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as projects usually involve engineers, technicians, and project managers working closely together.

What jobs can I do with an aerospace degree?

With an aerospace degree, you can pursue careers such as aerospace engineer, aircraft designer, flight test engineer, or systems analyst. These roles often require knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion, and computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and may require professional certifications or security clearances depending on the position.

What is aerospace science?

Aerospace science is the study of the design, development, testing, and production of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and equipment. It encompasses both aeronautics (flight within Earth's atmosphere) and astronautics (flight beyond Earth's atmosphere). The field includes research in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, materials science, and structural analysis. Professionals in aerospace science work on innovations that enhance air and space travel, safety, and exploration.

What is the highest paying job in aerospace?

The highest paying jobs in aerospace often include aerospace engineers in senior or managerial roles, aerospace project managers, and specialized research scientists, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. Executive positions such as aerospace company CEOs also command higher compensation, often in the millions, depending on company size and performance.

What can you do with an aerospace science degree?

An aerospace science degree prepares individuals for careers in designing, testing, and maintaining aircraft and spacecraft. Common roles include aerospace engineer, flight test engineer, and systems analyst, often requiring knowledge of physics, aerodynamics, and engineering tools like CAD software. Graduates may work in research labs, manufacturing, or government agencies, and some roles require certifications or security clearances.

Who are the big 4 in aerospace?

The 'Big 4' in aerospace typically refers to Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman, which are the largest aerospace and defense contractors globally. These companies develop commercial aircraft, military systems, and space technologies, often requiring aerospace scientists to have strong engineering, research, and technical skills. Working in aerospace science often involves collaboration with these major firms on innovative projects.
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Science jobs in Colorado? For Aerospace Science jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerospace Science jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Aerospace Science jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Aerospace Science jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Aerospace Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Aerospace Science job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,884 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Aerospace Affiliate Instructor

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

DepartmentAviation & Aerospace Science
By applying to this posting, you are entering an applicant pool for affiliate faculty. Screening of applicants will take place when positions come available. The number of these temporary, part-time, non-tenure track academic positions varies from semester to semester, depending on the needs of the program. As such, not everyone in the applicant pool for this position will be contacted and/or selected to teach.

About the University

Established in 1965, Metropolitan State University (MSU Denver) was founded to serve students who were underrepresented in higher education whose life paths and experiences did not fit the traditional mold. Sixty years later, the University continues to serve over 16,000 of Colorado's extraordinary and diverse students, providing them with the foundation on which to build their unique aspirations. As the third largest public institution of higher education in Colorado, MSU Denver is a model university for today's college students.

Proud of its federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution that also offers graduate programs (gHSI) and the only Seal of Excelencia certified institution in Colorado, the University serves the most diverse undergraduate student population in the state, as well as the most first-generation students. Through affordable, flexible, and holistic education, MSU Denver helps students build essential skills grounded in a multicultural and global perspective that lead to undergraduate and graduate degrees, and career and life success.

At MSU Denver, we are committed to our CADRE values:Community, Access, Diversity, Respect, and Excellence. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where all community members are valued and belong. Our dedication to breaking down barriers to education, fostering open dialogue, and promoting world-class scholarship ensures that we provide exceptional services and innovative learning opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff.

Position Summary

The Department of Aviation and Aerospace Science at Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) invites applications for future part-time afliate faculty teaching positions.

For more information about the Department of Aviation and Aerospace Science in our College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design, please visit: https://www.msudenver.edu/aviation-aerospace.

Responsibilities

An affiliate faculty member's duties may include but are not limited to: teaching assigned classes in person or online by delivering course content to students, preparing course materials and lesson plans, grading student work, providing students with robust feedback in a timely manner, addressing student questions consistent with university, college/school, and department policies, and providing online or in person academic support to students as needed and appropriate for the teaching assignment; providing instruction in assigned classes consistent with the content and learning objectives of the regular course syllabus and, if required, with department course coordination policies; and complying with university-wide student evaluation of instruction policies and peer observation policies. The ability to adapt and learn new modes of instruction is highly encouraged. Candidates need to be sensitive to the educational needs of a diverse student population.

Required Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree plus four years of relevant work experience or a master's degree or doctorate

  • Experience with space mission architecture, inclusive of aerospace systems engineering, spacecraft design and subsystem development, launch processes, ground station and mission operations, and/or space system automation

  • Experience with industry tools for mission simulation (e.g., STK), programming, system design, and/or data analysis

  • A fundamental understanding of orbital mechanics along with the space environment and its impact on crewed and uncrewed systems

  • Knowledge of historical spaceflight systems and future industry trends, inclusive of system automation, modular architectures, artificial intelligence integration, and/or aerospace workforce development

Terms of Employment

Afliate faculty are part-time, at-will employees hired to teach on a per credit hour basis for specic classes, usually on a semester-by-semester basis. Afliate faculty are not eligible for benet coverage under the University's benet program. All such teaching assignments are dependent on budget and enrollment.

Qualied candidates will be expected to teach in person/on campus upon hire.

Salary for Announcement

The final salary is based on the number of credit hours assigned at a rate determined by university policy.
Rate of pay per credit hour assignment can be between $1233 - $1512.

For more information, you may view pay rates here: Affiliate Rates.

How to Apply

Candidates must apply online through MSU Denver's career site, https://www.msudenver.edu/careers. Complete applications must include the following required materials:


1. Curriculum vitae

2. Cover letter
3.Copies of certications, if applicable (please copy front and back)

There is one location (the resume/cover letter submission eld) in the application poral to upload all required materials. Multiple documents can be submitted into this one eld. Once submitted, you will not be able to edit your application.

Ofcial transcripts will be required of the candidates selected for hire.

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Posting RepresentativeTanya Rogowsky Posting Representative Emailtrogowsk@msudenver.edu
Benefits

The University's benefits package is comprehensive and offers medical, vision and dental, free RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, as well as a life and supplemental insurance plans, retirement plans and other programs, such as accessto a long-term disability (LTD) plan.Visit MSU Denver'sbenefits websiteto learn more.


For a brief overview, please see: https://www.msudenver.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/MSU-Benefit-Summary.pdf.


The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator attotalrewards@msudenver.edu.


Background Checks

Metropolitan State University of Denver is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students, and visitors. To Assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background checks on all finalists for positions at the University prior to employment.


Diversity Statement

Metropolitan State University of Denver is a unique, access-oriented campus community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. Our student population consists of nearly 58% first generation students and over 50% students of color. We are a designated Hispanic Serving Institution located in downtown Denver.


We create an equitable learning and working environment in concert with individuals who consistently demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion. We greatly value the diverse identities and perspectives of our students, faculty, and staff and recognize that in order to achieve a just and equitable society, diversity must go beyond simple representation. It requires critical inquiry and dialogue and a commitment to action. We strive to provide a culture of belonging for all community members to achieve personal and professional success.