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Airplane Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Airplane Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$35

$55

$81

How much do airplane engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for airplane engineer in Indiana is $55.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.22 and $67.69 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 job categories do people searching Airplane Engineer jobs in Indiana look for?

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

Infographic showing various Airplane Engineer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,221 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Electrical Engineer -- Indianapolis, IN

Aloft AeroArchitects

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


ALOFT AeroArchitects rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Electrical Engineer -- Indianapolis, IN

Regular Full-Time Georgetown, DE, US

3 days ago Requisition ID: 1454

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 have basic knowledge of aerospace systems and perform electrical engineering work including research, development, and developing designs to ensure that manufacturing, construction, installation, and operational testing conform to functional specifications and regulatory / customer requirements. 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.
  • Utilize CAD / modeling tools to design and develop electrical wiring diagrams, schematics, wire harnesses and their routing layout.
  • Forms communications bridges and resources within the engineering department and other departments as assigned
  • Use computer-aided engineering and design software and equipment to perform engineering tasks.
  • Review the processes and procedures associated with electrical engineering as assigned by the supervisor
  • Produce basic drawings, as assigned; review and ensure drawings from other designers are accurate following the processes and procedures associated with the task. Conduct design reviews as required.
  • Write and release technical documents and drawings.
  • Design and direct testing at the fabrication level. Document findings and inform and elevate issues as required. As a collaborative team, determine methods, procedures, and conditions for testing products.
  • Design and direct circuit boards for auxiliary fuel system or be prepared to start learning the associated CAD.
  • Implement simple changes with the team, as directed, that are necessary for an auxiliary fuel system and other aircraft systems as assigned.
  • Create Advance Drawing Change Notices (ADCN's) for electrical components; review changes with the team.
  • Resolve any problems at the fabrication level consulting the team before moving forward with implementation
  • Conduct engineering meetings; work through tasks and issues; develop and recommend solutions to problems; document and implement solutions.
  • Learn new aircraft systems and assigned by your supervisor and the training department.
  • Seek to involve team efforts on all tasks as required and create step by step procedures. Review the procedures.
  • Document actions by completing all required time keeping records.
  • Complete initial / recurrent training requirements in a timely manner.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist in providing training, guidance, and mentorship for the team.

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 Electrical 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.
  • Strong research skills and the ability to work independently.
  • Effective computer skills; Microsoft Office software and other company and discipline specific software applications.
  • Ability to build positive relationships and to maintain cross-functional partnerships.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Effective analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Must be detail oriented with the ability to multi-task.
  • Ability and willingness to work extended hours, when needed.

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.

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.

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