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Aircraft Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sky Jet Services

Design Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Support development of aerospace and aircraft-related hardware. * Assist with structural analysis and design validation. * Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams for practical ...

Sky Jet Services

Design Engineer

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Support development of aerospace and aircraft-related hardware. * Assist with structural analysis and design validation. * Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams for practical ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Design Engineer

Centennial, CO

$50 - $70/hr

Design Engineer Contract | 6+ Months 30 + Opening with one of My Aerospace client Top Skill Sets ... Civilian aircraft design experience is fine, rocket design experience is also ok * Prior testing ...

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How much do aircraft design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft design engineer in the United States is $152,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,500.00 and $166,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Aircraft Design Engineer do?

An Aircraft Design Engineer is responsible for designing and developing aircraft and their components, ensuring they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software, conduct simulations, and collaborate with aerodynamics, materials, and structural engineers. Their work includes improving fuel efficiency, aerodynamics, and overall aircraft functionality. Additionally, they test prototypes, analyze data, and refine designs based on performance evaluations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aircraft Design Engineer position, and why are they important?

An Aircraft Design Engineer requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, mathematics, and physics, often backed by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis tools, and industry certifications such as EIT or PE is essential. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and convey complex ideas clearly. These abilities ensure successful design, compliance with safety standards, and efficient project execution in the demanding aerospace industry.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Aircraft Design Engineer?

As an Aircraft Design Engineer, your day often involves creating and refining 3D models and technical drawings, performing structural analyses, and collaborating closely with aerodynamics, materials, and systems engineers. You will participate in design reviews, troubleshoot design issues, and help ensure new aircraft designs meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. Regular meetings with manufacturing and testing teams are common to align on project progress and resolve technical challenges. This role requires both independent problem-solving and teamwork, as you contribute to the development of innovative aerospace solutions.
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Aircraft Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,999 per year, or $73.6 per hour.

Structural / Airframe Design Engineer

BI-Commercial

Marietta, GA • On-site

$50 - $84/hr

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

  • We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Airframe Design Engineer to join the C-130J Airframe Design team.
  • The role involves completing the design of structural detail parts, assemblies, and installations, as well as systems installations for specialized versions of the C-130, C-5, P-3, and S-3 aircraft.
  • The position supports multiple customer modification programs and special projects, including complex designs requiring vendor coordination and detailed CATIA V5 modeling.
  • The successful candidate will be a self-driven engineer who can lead design solutions with minimal supervision, coordinate across multiple disciplines, and ensure designs meet cost, schedule, and performance requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the development of structural detail parts, assemblies, installations, and system installations for assigned aircraft platforms.
  • Drive design solutions with minimal direction, coordinating with wiring/avionics teams, vendor inputs, and manufacturing during the design process.
  • Hold periodic design reviews and incorporate updates as designs mature.
  • Ensure manufacturability by working closely with production teams.
  • Develop layouts and prepare engineering drawings in compliance with aerospace drafting conventions, configuration management standards, and applicable specifications.
  • Coordinate drawing reviews, approvals, and sign-offs to meet program objectives.
  • Partner with Planning, Tooling, Stress, Materials & Processes (M&P), Reliability & Maintainability (R&M), Materiel, Flight Sciences, Test, and Manufacturing teams.
  • Ensure designs meet all customer requirements, internal specifications, and regulatory standards.
  • Provide engineering support to manufacturing operations, flight test teams, and customers to resolve technical issues related to aircraft structure and systems.
  • Support post-delivery modifications and field service engineering needs.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering.
  • Minimum 9 years of aircraft design, test, or support experience.
  • Proficiency in CATIA V5 and CCD with at least 9 years of hands-on experience.
  • Strong understanding of configuration management, drafting conventions, and aerospace specifications.
  • Proven production line support experience.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while coordinating across multiple functions.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • C-130 aircraft design experience (highly desired; only candidates with C-130 experience will be considered at the top pay rate).
  • Experience with modification design projects for C-5, P-3, or S-3 aircraft.
  • Familiarity with aerospace manufacturing processes and military aircraft design standards.