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Airplane Engineer Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Accomplish planned work in accordance with engineering drawings, manufacturer's specifications, Company Process Standards and Airplane Manuals. * Document all aircraft related actions in accordance ...

Avionics Technician

Georgetown, DE · On-site

$26.50 - $34.75/hr

Accomplish tasks using work methods and procedures, strictly in accordance with engineering drawings, manufacturer's specifications, Company Process Standards and Airplane Maintenance Manuals. * Read ...

Machinist

Georgetown, DE · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

At ALOFT AeroArchitects, we're not just about working on airplanes; we're about crafting client ... Read and interpret sketches, engineering drawings, manuals, specifications, or sample part to ...

Accomplish tasks using work methods and procedures, strictly in accordance with engineering drawings, manufacturer's specifications, Process Standards and Airplane Maintenance Manuals. * Read ...

At ALOFT AeroArchitects, we seek talented professionals in airplane maintenance, modification, and ... Conduct make-versus-buy analysis in collaboration with Engineering and Production to support cost ...

At ALOFT AeroArchitects, we seek talented professionals in airplane maintenance, modification, and ... engineering drawings, Service Bulletins (SB), Airworthiness Directives (AD), Service Letters (SL ...

Electrical Assembler

Georgetown, DE · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

At ALOFT AeroArchitects, we seek talented professionals in airplane maintenance, modification, and ... Ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex engineering prints. * Knowledge of schematics ...

Airplane Engineer information

See Delaware salary details

$37

$58

$85

How much do airplane engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for airplane engineer in Delaware is $58.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.48 and $71.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges an airplane engineer faces when working on new aircraft designs?

Airplane Engineers often face the challenge of balancing innovative design with strict safety and regulatory standards. They must collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams—including aerodynamicists, materials specialists, and regulatory bodies—to ensure that every component meets performance, efficiency, and compliance requirements. Managing tight project timelines while troubleshooting unforeseen technical issues is common, and effective communication is crucial to coordinate changes and maintain project momentum. Staying up-to-date with advances in aviation technology also plays a key role in overcoming these challenges and delivering successful aircraft designs.

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

To thrive as an Airplane Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and sometimes a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry standards such as FAA regulations is crucial in this role. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure the safe, innovative, and efficient design, maintenance, and improvement of aircraft systems.

What is the difference between Airplane Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

AspectAirplane EngineerAircraft Maintenance Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications like EASA Part-66 or FAA A&PFAA A&P certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of aircraft systemsInspection, repair, and maintenance of aircraft
Employer & IndustryAircraft manufacturers, airlines, defense contractorsAirlines, maintenance facilities, repair stations

While both roles involve aircraft, Airplane Engineers focus on designing and developing aircraft systems, whereas Aircraft Maintenance Technicians perform inspections and repairs to ensure safety and compliance. Both require relevant certifications and work closely within the aviation industry, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much do airplane engineers earn?

Airplane engineers, also known as aircraft maintenance engineers or aviation mechanics, typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior or specialized engineers with additional certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in large or busy maintenance facilities.

How much money do airplane engineers make?

Airplane engineers, also known as aerospace or aircraft maintenance engineers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior engineers or those working in specialized fields can earn higher salaries, especially with additional licenses and skills in aircraft systems and troubleshooting.

What does an airplane engineer do?

An airplane engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains aircraft systems and components to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. They often work with technical drawings, use specialized tools, and require certifications such as an FAA license, working in maintenance or manufacturing environments. Their responsibilities include troubleshooting issues, performing inspections, and implementing repairs or upgrades.

What are popular job titles related to Airplane Engineer jobs in Delaware?

For Airplane Engineer jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Airplane Engineer jobs in Delaware look for?

The top searched job categories for Airplane Engineer jobs in Delaware are:

Infographic showing various Airplane Engineer job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,190 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

Structures Engineer -- Indianapolis, IN

Georgetown, DE • On-site

Pats Aircraft LLC
501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Join the High-Flying Team at ALOFT AeroArchitects!

Hiring for Engineering roles located in both Georgetown, DE & Indianapolis, IN

Ready to elevate your career? At ALOFT AeroArchitects, we seek talented professionals in airplane maintenance, modification, and completion. We craft exceptional client experiences by pushing the boundaries of luxury, performance, and safety.

Join our crew! If you're looking for a career where you can make a real impact and work on cutting-edge and luxury aircraft, look no further. Join us at ALOFT AeroArchitects and let's take aviation to new heights!

SUMMARY

Employees in this job role helps design, develop, and certify various structural components related to assigned projects.  This position will support the structural engineering activities required for the design, installation, substantiation, and FAA certification of various projects, as well as provide Liaison Engineering support for hangar operations.   The employee will work as a part of a collaborative team and will contribute to various projects under general supervision.   

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Integrate technical, cost, value, and safety considerations into the product definition to comply with customer, regulatory, and company requirements. Document results in drawings, data sets, reports, specifications, and supporting data. 
    • Work on structural design aspects/criteria within multi-discipline engineering team on assigned projects.
    • Evaluate and comprehend various design criteria in order to define structural design requirements for new design tasks.
    • Evaluate structural integrity of various design concepts using classic analytical methods (i.e. from Bruhn, Flabel and/or Niu texts) or FEM techniques as appropriate, and recommend effective/efficient design solutions as required.
    • Select appropriate analytical methods and techniques to demonstrate margins of safety in timely manner to demonstrate compliance with 14 CFR Part 23, 25, 27, 29 regulations.
    • Review technical engineering drawing packages to ensure design data meets structural objectives/requirements.
    • Develop structural analysis reports to clearly document structural substantiation of various aircraft modifications to support compliance with 14 CFR Part 23, 25, 27, 29 regulations.
    • Coordinate/interface with Structural Engineering Lead and FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) or ODA Structural Unit Members. Must be able to effectively communicate analysis approaches/methodologies/techniques/results to obtain DER or Unit Member concurrence during design process.
    • Provide production/hangar support through evaluation of non-recurring discrepancies on constructed products and/or aircraft, and recommend repair solutions.  Provide proper documentation for repair instructions, and coordinate required FAA approvals (FAA Form 8110-3) as necessary.
    • Evaluate discrepancy reports of products with structural requirements from hangar/backshops, using classic analytical methods (i.e. from Bruhn, Flabel and/or Niu texts) or FEM techniques as appropriate, and recommend proper, effective, and efficient design solutions/dispositions as required to ensure structural integrity is maintained.
    • Coordinate necessary engineering drawing revisions as required to support production in hangar/backshops in timely manly to maintain production schedules.
    • Prepare accurate and concise Engineering Repair Drawings (ERDs) to provide engineering disposition to discrepancies, as required.
  • Document actions by completing all required time keeping records. 
  • Complete initial / recurrent training requirements in a timely manner.
  • Other duties may be assigned. Always consult with your team. 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • None.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES 

The individual employed in this position is expected to dress appropriately (determined by area in which their work is performed), report to work on time, have excellent work habits, and have a cooperative and positive attitude in the work setting; exhibits respect and professionalism when interacting with customers, and all employees; must adhere to company policies, procedures and safety standards. 

QUALIFICATIONS   

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

  • Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from four-year college or university; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 3 to 8 years practical work experience in a directly related job role.
  • Basic knowledge of classic structural analysis methods (i.e. from Bruhn, Flabel and/or Niu texts) and their practical application.
  • Basic knowledge of Finite Element Modeling (FEM) software (FEMAP / Nastran NX is preferred).
  • Experience with aircraft modification and/or interior completions involving the development and/or installation of STC packages is preferred.
  • Experience with general airframe repair practices is preferred. 
  • At minimum, entry-level working knowledge of 2D / 3D CAD software (i.e. AutoCAD / Catia V5).
  • Basic knowledge of vibration / fatigue analysis and its practical application is preferred.
  • Experience with aircraft structural installation/modification practices and the regulatory requirements per 14 CFR Part 23, 25, 27, 29 is preferred.
  • Effective technical writing, verbal communication, and problem-solving skills are required.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes (metallic and composite) is preferred.
  • Must be detail oriented with the ability to multi-task while working within budget and schedule constraints.
  • Ability and willingness to work extended hours, when needed. 
  • Effective computer skills; Microsoft Office Software and other company and discipline specific software applications.

LANGUAGE SKILLS 

  • Read, write and understand the English language.
  • Ability to read, write, analyze and interpret complex contracts, legal documents, technical documents, engineering drawings, regulations, procedures and manuals.
  • Write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.   
  • Effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients or customers.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS 

  • None.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Standard safety precautions are required in all areas where hazardous conditions exist. 

TRAVEL

  • Occasional travel may be required; the employee filling this position must be willing to travel on short notice and possibly for extended periods.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The following work environment and characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 

  • Standard office environments. 
  • Exposure to noise, smells, dust and fumes typically associated in an aviation environment.
  • Close proximity to several industrial hazards including electrical, mechanical and chemical.

SAFETY STATEMENT

All employees have a responsibility to cooperate in promoting and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment, to take reasonable care of their own health and safety and to encourage the health and safety of all other team members. 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.   They are not intended to be an exhaustive description of all work requirements and responsibilities.  The job description does not constitute an employment contract and is subject to change as needed.