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Airplane Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Product Designer

$108K - $132K/yr

... lead at Black Airplane. Formal degree optional - we hire on the work. * Expert Figma - design systems, tokens, prototyping, engineering handoff. Comfortable working close to code. * Real ...

Min 5 years airplane control systems engineering experience * Strong experience in overall systems engineering * Strong project and program management experience * The ability to provide deep ...

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Airplane Engineer information

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$37

$58

$85

How much do airplane engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for airplane engineer in the United States is $58.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.43 and $71.15 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace engineers, including airplane engineers involved in aircraft design, development, and maintenance, can earn $300,000 or more annually with extensive experience, specialized skills, and often in leadership roles. High salaries are typically found in the aerospace industry, especially for those working on complex projects or in managerial positions, and may require advanced certifications and a strong technical background.

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 does an airplane engineer do?

An airplane engineer designs, maintains, and repairs aircraft systems and components to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. They often work with tools, diagnostic equipment, and follow technical manuals, requiring certifications such as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant license. Their work environment includes hangars, maintenance facilities, and aircraft testing areas.

How much does a plane engineer earn?

Aircraft engineers, also known as airplane or aeronautical engineers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the aircraft, employer, and whether the engineer works in maintenance, design, or testing environments.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced aerospace or aircraft engineers, especially those in senior leadership roles or working for major aerospace companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Such compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, and typically requires advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

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.

More about Airplane Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Airplane Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Airplane Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Airplane Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Airplane Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Airplane Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,086 per year, or $58.2 per hour.
Airplane Electronic Engineer (Lead or SME)

Airplane Electronic Engineer (Lead or SME)

Boeing

North Charleston, SC

$164K - $223K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 602 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Description

At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We’re committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that’s welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) is hiring for Airplane Electronic​ Engineer (Lead or SME) to join the 787 Electronic Systems (Avionics, Integrated Modular Avionics, Network Systems, & Electrical Subsystems) team located in North Charleston, South Carolina.

As a member of the Electronic Systems team at BSC, you will develop and support these systems and their components in a sustaining production environment. Project examples include addressing design obsolescence, developing product improvements, supporting production build and test, supporting new customer introduction, and supporting the in-service fleet.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Leads work with customers to develop and document complex electronic and electrical system requirements.
  • Leads and coordinates work to analyze and translate requirements into system architecture, hardware and software designs and interface specifications.
  • Leads work to test and validate to ensure system designs meet operational and functional requirements.
  • Oversees the team that monitors supplier performance to ensure system integration and compliance with requirements. Solves problems concerning and provides other support of fielded hardware and software over the entire product lifecycle.
  • Researches technology advances for potential application to company business needs.
  • Makes recommendations for technology investments.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry.
  • 14 or more years' related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience or non-US equivalent qualifications.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • ABET accredited degree
  • Experience with DO-254 Airborne Electronic Hardware Development & Qualification
  • Experience with DO-297 Integrated Modular Avionics Development & Qualification
  • Experience with ARP-4754 Systems Development & Qualification
  • Experience with DO-178 Airborne Software Development & Qualification

Conflict of Interest: Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company’s Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Pay & Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent.  Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.  

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and several programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.  

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.  

Summary Pay Range Lead (Level 5): $164,900 - $223,100


Applications for this position will be accepted until Aug. 29, 2026


Export Control Requirements:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Export Control Details:

US based job, US Person required

Education

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent Required

Relocation

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Visa Sponsorship

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Shift

This position is for 1st shift


Equal Opportunity Employer:

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.


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