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Aircraft Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Aircraft Wiring Systems Lead

Manassas, VA · On-site

At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air mobility, by making air travel more ...

Electra

Aircraft Wiring Systems Lead

Manassas, VA · On-site

At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air mobility, by making air travel more ...

Cirrus Aircraft

Learning Experience Designer, Sr.

Alcoa, TN · On-site

$88K - $95K/yr

Cirrus Aircraft is the recognized global leader in personal aviation and the maker of the best ... Strategic Creativity - Designs immersive, engaging learning experiences . * Inventive - Curious and ...

Cirrus Aircraft

Visual Designer

Alcoa, TN · On-site

Cirrus Aircraft is the recognized global leader in personal aviation and the maker of the best ... Ensure timely delivery of high-quality designs that meet project objectives and deadlines.

Vashon Aircraft

Mechanic, Assembly

Arlington, WA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

We're looking for a hands-on Aircraft Assembly Mechanic to join our team building the Vashon Ranger--a fun, modern, two-seat aircraft designed to get people into the sky. If you take pride in ...

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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.
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Aircraft Designer jobs near you

Production Engineer II (Aircraft Completion Projects)

Pilatus Aircraft

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Pilatus is hiring a Production Engineer to join our team in Broomfield, CO. In this role, you will leverage your production, manufacturing, and engineering expertise to bridge the gap between engineering design and manufacturing execution for our completion projects. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, efficient, and successfully executed. As a subject matter expert, you will provide technical guidance and support to all departments involved in the manufacturing and delivery of completion projects. Take your career to the next level with Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd!
Essential Duties/Responsibilities
  • Reviews and translates engineering design packages into manufacturing and completion packages
  • Develops tasks, instructions, and bill of materials in the completion center ERP system
  • Works closely with production and project planning departments, procurement, and completion center leads on optimizing planning, materials and installation
  • Creates mechanical and electrical assembly instructions, focusing on standardizing across projects and products while streamlining workflow of hardware through needed work centers
  • Works closely with design engineers, quality control, procurement, and production teams to ensure smooth transition from design to production and to address any manufacturability issues
  • Ensures all process documentation, including work instructions, process specifications, and operational standards are current and compliant with company and industry standards
  • Works closely with Pilatus quality department and FAA manufacturing representatives to coordinate and execute first article and conformity inspections for new designs

Other Duties/Responsibilities
  • Takes an active role in the Engineering change management and configuration process
  • Contributes actively to the non-conformance and issue tracking process and closely supports resolution of tracked issues

Requirements
Skills/Qualifications
  • BS Degree in a related engineering discipline or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • 2-3 years of related experience in aircraft completion / modification required
  • Experience with manufacturing, planning, and completion processes and projects required
  • Must be proficient in the use of Solid Edge with Siemens Teamcenter or comparable 2D/3D CAD suite
  • Proficiency in Component Control Quantum Control or similar EPR / MRP systems highly desired
  • Aviation / Aerospace manufacturing and completion center experience highly desirable
  • Self-disciplined, capable of handling multiple, simultaneous projects and tasks with high standards of accuracy and quality
  • Must meet the criteria of a U.S. person as defined under ITAR, 22 CFR 120.62

What We Offer
  • 11 paid holidays a year, plus 15 days of paid vacation time, and 6 days of paid sick/personal time to start with an increase to 20 days of paid vacation time after 5 years with Pilatus
  • 90% of medical, dental, and vision premiums paid for single coverage and 80% for family coverage, averaging $9,600 annually
  • Monthly health savings account (HSA) contributions totaling $2,250 for single coverage and $3,000 for family coverage annually
  • 401(k) retirement plan matching up to 6%
  • Life and long-term disability insurance premiums paid in full
  • Tuition assistance available annually after the first year

The salary range for this position is $78,000 - 110,000 per year depending on experience. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.
Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd was founded in Broomfield, Colorado in 1996. Pilatus' 118,000 square foot facility is custom-designed to conduct aircraft interior and exterior completions for all PC-12 PRO and PC-24 aircraft delivering to North and South America. This new completions center consolidates the operations Pilatus has performed at the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport for almost 30 years.
With over 3,000 employees and about 200 apprentices at its headquarters in Stans, Switzerland and completion center in Broomfield, Colorado, the Pilatus family unites people from over 40 countries. We offer a secure, innovative, international, and sustainable work environment. Courage, vision, and outstanding performance have made us a strong company. Our culture is shaped by a high level of quality awareness, close customer relationships, and a high degree of employee commitment.
Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
To submit a paper application, please mail your resume to 12300 Pilatus Way, Broomfield, CO 80021 Attention: Human Resources. No walk-ins please. If personalized assistance is needed to complete an online application for this position, please email employment.us@pilatus-aircraft.com with your request.
Salary Description
$78,000 - 110,000 / Year

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