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Aircraft Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sapsol Technologies Inc

Aircraft Structural Dynamics

... design studies and continued airworthiness of in-service aircraft • Use engineering judgment on selecting the appropriate methods, techniques, and tools in resolving complex issues • Prepare and ...

Sapsol Technologies Inc

Aircraft Loads

... design loads for both new development programs and continued airworthiness of in-service aircraft • Develop and maintain both low- and high-fidelity models to support loads analysis • Contribute ...

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Aircraft Design information

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$120K

$153K

$176K

How much do aircraft design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft design 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.

How do you become an aircraft designer?

To become an aircraft designer, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level engineering roles, developing skills in CAD software, and obtaining professional engineering licensure can also enhance career prospects in aircraft design.

How much do aircraft designers make?

Aircraft designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $115,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers or those in senior roles can earn significantly more. Strong skills in CAD software and aerospace engineering are often required for higher-paying positions.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals working in Aircraft Design?

Professionals in Aircraft Design often face the challenges of balancing innovative design solutions with strict safety regulations and industry standards. Meeting ambitious performance, weight, and cost targets while ensuring compliance with government certifications requires careful coordination and attention to detail. Working under tight project timelines and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including aerodynamics, systems, and manufacturing engineers—are also common aspects of the role. These challenges make the work dynamic, but also highly rewarding for those passionate about aviation innovation.

What career designs airplanes?

Aircraft design is typically carried out by aerospace engineers who specialize in creating and testing aircraft structures, systems, and aerodynamics. These professionals often hold degrees in aerospace engineering or related fields and use tools like CAD software to develop designs, adhering to safety and regulatory standards throughout the process.

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

To thrive in Aircraft Design, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, finite element analysis tools, and familiarity with industry standards such as FAA or EASA regulations are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork skills are key soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure that innovative, safe, and efficient aircraft designs are developed while meeting rigorous industry standards and project objectives.

What is an Aircraft Design job?

An Aircraft Design job involves conceptualizing, developing, and optimizing aircraft structures, aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and avionics. Professionals in this field use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and simulations to create efficient, safe, and cost-effective aircraft. They work closely with aerospace engineers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with industry standards. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of materials and aerodynamics.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers, including those specializing in aircraft design, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation is often associated with senior positions, specialized expertise, or working in high-demand sectors within the aerospace industry.
More about Aircraft Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Aircraft Design jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Design job openings:
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What states have the most Aircraft Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Design jobs include:
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Aircraft Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,999 per year, or $73.6 per hour.

Senior Aero-Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Systems Engineering Integration and Design Optimization

Orb Aerospace

Lowell, MI • On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

US Citizen or Permanent Resident 
In-Person 
Fall 2026 Start
 
5+ Years’ Experience Req. Successful Program Experience 
 
Join us in retuning to a 1940’s design cadence, reducing the cycle time for aircraft design, build and fly – Integrating advanced design tools and experimenting with unconventional planforms. We are reindustrializing the Midwest as Michigan’s first airframe prime since the Second World War. We’releveraging our region’s industrial might and airspace to build aircraft that become decentralized infrastructure. Orb is a small mission-driven team where your initiative, creativity, and dedication will be used to reach every village on the planet with power, logistics, and communications.  
 
Your Role at Orb: We’re establishing a low overhead, fast paced, experimental aircraft development environment that allows new design ideas, tools, and processes to be tested and go to market in an entirely new category of aircraft. We’re giving a passionate engineer with a history of designing, optimizing and shepherding aircraft cradle-to-grave an opportunity to test their ideas in the interests of building the best aircraft to have the highest impact on the greatest number of people. You should have a passion for efficient, multifunctional teams and the experience to lead others in the interested of rapid execution on exciting new air platforms.   
 
If you’re ready to take ownership, embrace complexity, and thrive in a role where your work truly matters, we’d love to hear from you. 
Key Responsibilities
  • Aircraft Design, Configuration, Analysis, and Trade Studies 
  • Engineering First Principals Driven Multi-Disciplinary Systems Engineering from RF to Propulsion and Structures 
  • Spool up Aircraft Design Tools Like CFD,   
  • Incorporate Multi-Disciplinary Optimization and Establish Design Tools / Processes 
  • Incorporate With Every Discipline from Conceptual Design to Flight Test 
Desired Skills and Qualifications
  • Demonstrated Experience in Wholistic Aircraft Design, Aero, Mechanical, and Systems Integration. 
  • Demonstrated Success inBuilding Unconventional Air Platforms 
  • Long Term Commitment to Orbs Mission 
  • Expert in CAD E.G. Siemens NX, Solid Works, Catia or Similar 
  • Expert in Simulation of Loads and Aerodynamic Forces 
  • Experienced in Conceptual Design Tools and Multi-Disciplinary Optimization 
+ Additional Options and Incentives

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.