2

Entry Level Aerospace Programmer Jobs in Wichita, KS

Entry Level Aerospace Programmer information

See Wichita, KS salary details

$12

$23

$70

How much do entry level aerospace programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level aerospace programmer in Wichita, KS is $23.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level aerospace programmer do?

An Entry Level Aerospace Programmer assists in writing, testing, and maintaining software that supports aerospace systems such as aircraft, satellites, and related technologies. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to develop code for simulations, embedded systems, or data analysis tools. Their responsibilities may include debugging programs, collaborating with engineering teams, and learning industry-specific standards and best practices. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those new to the aerospace field, providing them with foundational experience in both programming and aerospace applications.

What typical projects or tasks can an entry level aerospace programmer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Aerospace Programmer, you can expect to contribute to tasks such as developing and testing software for flight control systems, automating simulation processes, and assisting with data analysis for aerospace projects. You'll often work under the guidance of senior engineers and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including mechanical and systems engineers. Early projects typically focus on smaller modules or troubleshooting existing code, giving you the opportunity to build domain knowledge while developing programming skills specific to aerospace applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level aerospace programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Aerospace Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as C, C++, or Python), basic aerospace engineering concepts, and typically a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with development environments, version control systems (like Git), and simulation tools commonly used in aerospace is also expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable software that meets the rigorous safety and performance standards of the aerospace industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aerospace Programmer vs Entry Level Aerospace Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Aerospace ProgrammerEntry Level Aerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or related field; programming skillsBachelor's in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering; strong math and physics background
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, labs, simulation centersDesign offices, testing facilities, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageAerospace companies, defense contractors, simulation firmsAircraft manufacturers, space agencies, defense industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Aerospace Programmers focus on developing and testing software for aerospace applications, requiring programming skills and computer science knowledge. Entry Level Aerospace Engineers work on designing, analyzing, and testing aerospace systems, emphasizing engineering principles. Both roles often collaborate but differ mainly in their technical focus and skill sets.

Infographic showing various Entry Level Aerospace Programmer job openings in Wichita, KS as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 13% Full Time, 83% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,735 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Spirit Defense - Entry-Level Contract Administrator

Wichita, KS


Spirit AeroSystems
Machinery Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$48K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Overview

This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, at Spirit’s Defense Business Unit (“Spirit Defense”). Spirit Defense is an independent supplier to the defense and space marketplace. Through innovative engineering and rapid prototyping excellence, Spirit Defense provides the capabilities, technologies and support customers need to succeed in their missions.


Responsibilities

Position Responsibilities:

  • The candidate selected for this role will be responsible for the entire life cycle of assigned commercial contracts/agreements.
  • Responsibilities include preparation of contract/agreement documents, proposals, terms risk assessments, pricing review and approval, fact finding and audit support, negotiations, administration, reconciliations and closeout.
  • Candidate must be able to work in a team environment, interact with multiple disciplines and leadership, provide contractual guidance, establish effective long-term customer relationships, meet commitments to ensure customer satisfaction and incorporate contractual process continuous improvement projects.
  • Candidate must be flexible and able to balance priorities within multiple programs.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills and Experience):

  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship)
  • Ability to obtain Special Program Access
  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, or other related course of study
  • 0-2 Years of experience of contracts and negotiations or equivalent experience
  • Experience in all aspects of the contract life cycle including proposals, administration and closeout
  • Strong oral, written, presentation and negotiation skills
  • Proven ability to work with stakeholders across multiple Business Units·
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and effectively work multiple simultaneous assignments
  • Ability to coach others, and lead regardless of position or reporting relationship
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
  • Ability to travel, as required

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Must be a strategic thinker and be able to identify and mitigate potential contract risks when reviewing terms and conditions
  • Strong financial and business acumen; familiarity with accounting principles as they relate to contracting a plus
  • Experience working in aerospace in support of production programs is a plus

Drug Free Workplace:

We are 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:

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. 

We also provide 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: $48,700- $74,650

Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Qualifications:

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills and Experience):

  • Ability to obtain a U.S. Secret Security Clearance (for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship)
  • Ability to obtain Special Program Access
  • Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, or other related course of study
  • 0-2 Years of experience of contracts and negotiations or equivalent experience
  • Experience in all aspects of the contract life cycle including proposals, administration and closeout
  • Strong oral, written, presentation and negotiation skills
  • Proven ability to work with stakeholders across multiple Business Units·
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and effectively work multiple simultaneous assignments
  • Ability to coach others, and lead regardless of position or reporting relationship
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
  • Ability to travel, as required

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Must be a strategic thinker and be able to identify and mitigate potential contract risks when reviewing terms and conditions
  • Strong financial and business acumen; familiarity with accounting principles as they relate to contracting a plus
  • Experience working in aerospace in support of production programs is a plus

Drug Free Workplace:

We are 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:

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. 

We also provide 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: $48,700- $74,650

Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems’ Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.

Security Clearance:

This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim and/or final U.S. Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.

Visa Sponsorship

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME


What Spirit AeroSystems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom