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Airplane Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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.
Propulsion Engineer (Mid-Level or Senior)

Propulsion Engineer (Mid-Level or Senior)

Boeing

Renton, WA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 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

Propulsion Engineer (Mid-Level or Senior)

Company:

The Boeing Company

Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) is hiring Propulsion Engineer (Mid-Level or Senior) specializing in Engine Performance to support our Propulsion System Engineering in Everett, WA.

Engine Operability Lead

In the Engine Operabilityrole, you will play a critical part in engine and airframe integration, leveraging a robust Engine Performance and Operability background, focused on achieving safe and airworthy Propulsion System designs. You will be joining a dynamic team of engineers and leaders who prioritize technical growth and mentorship within their team. The ideal candidate balances a forward-thinking approach, strong data analysis skills, leadership skills, and clear technical communication abilities to resolve complex engine operability challenges.

This work supports our Propulsion Organization; a world-class team of over 1000 engineers across the product life cycle from product development to certification to fleet support.

At Boeing, we are dedicated to safety, quality, innovation, and technical excellence. Our team designs, builds, certifies, delivers, and maintains products and services that provide superior safety, quality, and value to our customers. Join us in Engine Operability and help us redefine what's possible.

Engine Performance

We are looking for a motivated individual with a passion for engines and airplanes, eager to leverage their engine performance expertise to enhance aircraft capabilities. In this role, you will play a critical part in generating and integrating engine data into cross-functional aircraft performance assessments. You will be joining a dynamic team of engineers and leaders who prioritize technical growth and mentorship within their team. The ideal candidate balances a forward-thinking approach, strong data analysis skills, and clear technical communication abilities to resolve complex engine performance challenges.

This work supports our Propulsion Organization; a world-class team of over 1000 engineers across the product life cycle from product development to certification to fleet support.

At Boeing, we are dedicated to safety, quality, innovation, and technical excellence. Our team designs, builds, certifies, delivers, and maintains products and services that provide superior safety, quality, and value to our customers. Join us in Engine Performance and help us redefine what's possible.

Our teams are currently hiring for a broad range of experience levels including Mid-Level and Senior Propulsion Engineers.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Analyzes steady-state engine performance and detailed thermodynamic cycle data, demonstrating an in-depth understanding of gas turbine engine thermodynamics and performance characteristics

  • Assesses engine operation across various conditions and certify operating characteristics, applying knowledge of regulatory compliance processes (FAA & EASA)

  • Analyzes and communicates engine performance impacts on airplane subsystem performance, including proficiency in calculating in-flight thrust and understanding its implications

  • Collaborates with disciplines across the airplane (e.g. Aero, Environmental Controls, Mech/Hyd, and Thermal) to provide engine performance expertise on assessing cross-functional system impacts

  • Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and contributes to certification documentation, showcasing familiarity with means-of-compliance

  • Conducts data analysis and risk assessments for flight tests, utilizing strong analytical skills to support flight test planning and performance evaluations

  • Coordinates with engine supplier(s) on engine/airplane performance throughout an airplane program's lifecycle

  • Supports product improvement initiatives and knowledge sharing within the team, committing to ongoing education in emerging technologies and methodologies in engine performance

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry

  • 5+ years' related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience

  • 1+ years experience in propulsion and thermodynamics

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • 9+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education (Master's, PhD) and experience

  • Foundational knowledge of gas turbine engine operation and thermodynamics

  • Experience with engine performance modeling tools & methods

  • Proficiency with Linux/Unix computing systems and shell scripting

  • Familiarity with regulatory requirements for engine and airplane certification (e.g., 14 CFR Part 25, Part 33)

  • Experience with integrated airplane simulation and engine model development

  • Proficiency with NPSS modeling and engine cycle model development and analysis

  • Prior involvement in engine certification programs and/or flight test data analysis

  • Advanced knowledge of engine operability, icing, and transient analysis

  • Familiarity with propulsion system audits and compliance documentation

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Experience working with engine suppliers and cross-functional teams

Conflict of Interest:

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

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeingis 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.

Total Rewards & Pay Transparency:

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 a number of 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 Mid-Level (level 3): $126,900 - $155,100

Summary pay range Senior (level 4): $154,800 - $189,200

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

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.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position does not require a Security Clearance.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 1 (United States of America)

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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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