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Aircraft Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aircraft Systems Engineer Sr

Duluth, MN · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Job Summary The primary responsibility of the Aircraft Systems Engineer in the Field Sustaining ... These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus! Other ...

Job Summary The primary responsibility of the Aircraft Systems Engineer in the Field Sustaining ... These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus! Other ...

Aircraft Systems Engineer Sr

Alcoa, TN · On-site

$48.72 - $73.08/hr

Job Summary The primary responsibility of the Aircraft Systems Engineer in the Field Sustaining ... These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus! Other ...

Aircraft Systems Engineer Sr

Mckinney, TX · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Job Summary The primary responsibility of the Aircraft Systems Engineer in the Field Sustaining ... These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus! Other ...

Aircraft Systems Engineer Sr

Alcoa, TN · On-site

$101K - $152K/yr

Job Summary The primary responsibility of the Aircraft Systems Engineer in the Field Sustaining ... These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus! Other ...

Aircraft Paint Technician

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$24.53 - $34.53/hr

Pilatus' new 118,000 square foot facility is custom-designed to conduct aircraft interior and exterior completions for all PC-12 NGX and PC-24 aircraft delivering to North and South America. This new ...

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Aircraft Designer information

How much does an aircraft designer earn?

Aircraft designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior or specialized designers with advanced skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000 annually.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aircraft Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Designer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, strong mathematical and physics knowledge, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Expertise in CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), aerodynamic simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications like FAA or EASA regulations are essential. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills to excel in the design process and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and compliant aircraft designs that meet rigorous industry requirements.

How much money do airplane designers make?

Aircraft designers, also known as aerospace engineers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers working in specialized areas or for major aerospace companies can earn higher wages. Strong technical skills and relevant certifications can also influence earning potential.

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 certifications can also enhance prospects in this specialized field.

What does an aircraft designer do?

An aircraft designer is responsible for creating the concepts, blueprints, and specifications for new types of aircraft. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and knowledge of aerodynamics, materials, and manufacturing to ensure that the aircraft is safe, efficient, and meets regulatory standards. Aircraft designers often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with engineers, manufacturers, and testers throughout the development process. Their work is critical to the innovation and advancement of aviation technology.

What are some typical challenges an Aircraft Designer faces when working on a new aircraft project?

Aircraft Designers frequently encounter the challenge of balancing innovative design ideas with strict safety regulations and budget constraints. They must collaborate closely with engineers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies to ensure designs meet aerodynamic performance, structural integrity, and compliance standards. Managing project timelines while addressing unexpected technical issues is also common, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. Effective teamwork and communication across multidisciplinary teams are crucial for successfully bringing new aircraft concepts from concept to completion.

What is the difference between Aircraft Designer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAircraft DesignerAerospace Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, certifications varyBachelor's or higher in Aerospace Engineering, professional licenses optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, aircraft manufacturing facilitiesResearch labs, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in aircraft design and manufacturing companiesBroader aerospace sector including spacecraft, satellites, and aircraft

Aircraft Designers focus specifically on creating and developing aircraft structures and systems, often working within aircraft manufacturing companies. Aerospace Engineers have a broader scope, working on various aerospace projects including spacecraft and satellites, in addition to aircraft. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but their primary focus and work environments differ slightly.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced aerospace engineers, including senior aircraft designers and engineering managers, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in senior roles or with bonuses and profit sharing. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying industries or companies.
More about Aircraft Designer jobs
What states have the most Aircraft Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Designer jobs include:
Aircraft Structures Engineer (CLE)

Aircraft Structures Engineer (CLE)

Flexjet

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Flexjet rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 53 rated aviation services


Job description

Recognized as the global leader in aircraft and component remanufacturing, Nextant Aerospace has redefined the business aviation industry by using reimagined engineering and production capabilities to transform used business aircraft into new modern airframes.

Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for structures engineering support (research, analysis, planning, integration, and testing) for interior/exterior installations on business, commercial and military aviation aircraft
  • Generates and assembles drawings and documents to support modification and installation of structural and system components on aircraft
  • Designs and coordinates material and structural repairs
  • Assists with planning and selection of equipment installation locations
  • Coordinate and monitor structural/mechanical aspects of project schedule with project managers
  • Develop cabin interior, systems and structural modification/installation work instructions, procedures and recommendations
  • Generates 3-D mock-ups of components and installations to test-fit prior to manufacturing
  • May assist in estimating, quoting and planning in support of aircraft modification
  • Acts as a liaison between engineering and the aircraft integration/installation teams
  • Prior knowledge of installations, modifications and structural configurations of aircraft components, fixtures, and associated equipment in accordance with blueprints, worksheets and engineering drawings is required

Supplemental Responsibilities:

  • Assist aircraft integration teams with structural planning and fit checks
  • Help maintain company owned Supplemental Type Certificate (s) and approved designs
  • Interfaces with and maintains good working relationships with suppliers and integration teams
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's Degree (BS or BST) in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (preferred)
  • 3+ years of Aviation Structural integration experience
  • Familiar with fabrication and/or installation of basic structural systems in aircraft
  • Familiarity and understanding of aircraft loads and load paths
  • Experience in static structural analysis calculations for installations
  • Familiar with standard aircraft assembly and modification shop practices
  • General knowledge of applicable regulatory requirements (14 CFR Part 21, 23, 25, 145)
  • Ability to work in and around the aircraft and tight spaces (avionics bays, etc.)
  • Travel on occasion
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision
  • Advanced skill in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Experienced in mechanical design CAD package(s)

Highly Desired:

  • FAA Structural DER
  • Exposure to aircraft modifications (AMT, repairman, A&P, etc), FAA and aircraft OEM standard practices, and FAA certification
  • NCATT certification

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