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Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eaton's IS AER MSD division is currently seeking a Entry Level Design Engineer. This role is based in Orchard Park, NY. The expected annual salary range for this role is $69000 - $101000 a year.

Staley Company is one of the leading manufacturers specializing in Aircraft Ground Support Test ... Design engineer will develop test systems designs for aerospace components, including test fixtures ...

Staley Company is one of the leading manufacturers specializing in Aircraft Ground Support Test ... Design engineer will develop test systems designs for aerospace components, including test fixtures ...

... design studies and continued airworthiness of in-service aircraft • Use engineering judgment on selecting the appropriate methods, techniques, and tools in resolving complex issues • Prepare and ...

A Design Engineer job is currently available at Belcan in Cincinnati, OH. This is a full time, ... In this job, you will support design for tooling for building aircraft engines. Job Duties:

Design Engineer The Design Engineer is responsible for the execution of all facets ofdesign ... aircraft aluminum to early aerospace pioneers like Lindbergh, Douglas and Lockheed. Today Ducommun ...

... Engineering with Aerospace specialization What are your contributions to the team? • Conduct simulations and analyses to determine aircraft design loads for both new development programs and ...

Design Engineer The Design Engineer is responsible for the execution of all facets ofdesign ... aircraft aluminum to early aerospace pioneers like Lindbergh, Douglas and Lockheed. Today Ducommun ...

Epic Aircraft is a leading manufacturer of high-performance, all-carbon-fiber, single-engine ... WHAT YOU'LL DO As a member of the Engineering Department, the Design Engineer II is responsible for ...

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Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer information

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How much do entry level aircraft design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level aircraft design engineer in the United States is $152,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,500.00 and $166,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level aircraft design engineer do?

An Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer assists in designing and developing aircraft and related components under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities typically include creating technical drawings, performing basic calculations, conducting simulations, and supporting testing activities. They often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that designs meet safety, regulatory, and performance requirements. This role provides foundational experience in the aerospace industry and helps new engineers build essential technical and teamwork skills.

What kinds of projects and tasks can an entry level aircraft design engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level aircraft design engineer, you will typically be involved in supporting senior engineers with tasks such as drafting technical drawings, running simulations, and assisting with component design and testing. You'll likely participate in team meetings, learn to use industry-standard CAD software, and help document design changes or test results. Expect to collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including aerodynamics, materials, and manufacturing engineers. These early projects are designed to help you build foundational skills, understand the company's design processes, and contribute meaningfully while receiving mentorship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level aircraft design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer, a solid grounding in aerospace or mechanical engineering principles, supported by a relevant degree, is essential. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis tools, and knowledge of industry standards are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help new engineers excel in collaborative and technically demanding environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, innovative, and efficient aircraft designs that meet regulatory and performance standards.

What is the difference between Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer vs Aircraft Systems Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Aircraft Design EngineerAircraft Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in aerospace or mechanical engineeringBachelor's in aerospace, electrical, or systems engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD labs, R&D facilitiesDesign teams, testing labs, integration environments
Industry UsageAircraft manufacturers, aerospace firmsAircraft manufacturers, defense contractors

Both roles require engineering degrees and involve working within aerospace companies. The Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer focuses on conceptual and detailed aircraft design, while the Aircraft Systems Engineer specializes in integrating and testing aircraft systems. Understanding these differences helps candidates choose the right career path in aerospace engineering.

More about Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Design Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Aircraft Design Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Aircraft Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,999 per year, or $73.6 per hour.

Composites Design Engineer, Entry Level

Scaled Composites

Mojave, CA • On-site

$85K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

What You’ll Do:

It’s in the name, Scaled Composites. For a variety of reasons, Scaled typically builds our airplanes out of composite materials. And the skillset to design structures out of composites is unique. But then again, so are we. The work of this role typically starts with an outer mold line (OML) and a set of high-level requirements. From there, the composite design engineer develops a structural concept, defines detailed requirements, and sets about designing and analyzing a structure that meets the needs of the airplane. While there will be a fair share of brackets and door handles, this role will typically own a significant chunk of the structure required of the program. This will vary based on size and complexity, but responsibility for the wing, fuselage, empennage, cabin, or even all of the above is likely.

Category: Engineering

Location: Mojave, CA

Citizenship Required: United States Citizenship

Clearance Type: None

Schedule: 9/80 Work Schedule

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be available

Benefits: 100% Paid Benefits and 401k Matching

About Scaled

Founded by visionary aircraft designer Burt Rutan, Scaled Composites has been in the business of Designing, Building, and Flying unique airplanes and spacecraft for over 40 years. We are a modestly sized company, constantly building small teams of empowered and capable employees to achieve extraordinary accomplishments in aerospace. From the farthest (Global Flyer), to the largest (Stratolaunch), to the highest (SpaceShipOne, Proteus), and many in between, Scaled’s track record of innovation has pushed against and expanded some of the most stubborn corners of the flight envelope.

We honor that legacy today by doing what we’ve always done - seeking out the hardest problems in aerospace and having fun while solving them. With an average of a new design first flight for every year of our existence, there is no better place to practice the arts and science of new aircraft development than here at Scaled.

Duties and Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

  • Performing conceptual design, structural layout, sizing, and detailed design
  • Generating detailed fabrication and assembly work instructions
  • Conducting stress analysis utilizing classical methods and performing laminate analysis and sizing for structural components
  • Providing hands-on manufacturing and assembly support
  • Contributing to ground and flight test planning, execution, and aircraft modifications
  • Demonstrating proficiency in understanding and designing primary and secondary load paths
  • Creating comprehensive 3D/2D definitions of parts, assemblies, and installations
  • Establishing manufacturing tolerances using GD&T principles
  • Actively participating in Engineering definition reviews, approvals, and release processes
  • Supporting the review of manufacturing plans and procedures
  • Assisting in the creation of structural test plans
  • A commitment to continuous learning, encompassing a readiness to acquire any necessary skills and knowledge essential to effectively support the program

Required Qualifications:

  • Foundational knowledge of aircraft load paths, structural sizing, and composite manufacturing / assembly
  • Strong understanding of the theory and practical application of composite structures and their application to aircraft
  • Proficiency in 3D Computer Aided Design
  • Great verbal and written communication skills
  • Great interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
  • Ability to work in isolation with minimal supervision as well as on large teams
  • Ability to work in multiple engineering disciplines on an aggressive schedule
  • Bachelor of Science in a relevant engineering discipline or substantial equivalent experience
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Proficiency in Siemens NX, CATIA V5, SolidWorks
  • Proficiency in FEMAP or other finite element analysis software
  • GD&T experience and knowledge of ASME Y14.5M-1994
  • Prior rapid prototyping experience
  • Hands-on design and build experience
  • Aerospace experience (work history, pilot’s license, experimental aircraft building, etc.)
  • DoD Clearance

Essential Job Functions:

  • Requires mobility and the ability to bend and reach
  • May infrequently require lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling materials (Ground Power Units, fuel bowsers, small aircraft) with a force up to 30 pounds
  • Manual dexterity and coordination are required; repetitive hand motion (e.g., to operate computer keyboard, test equipment, aircraft avionics)
  • Vision at close distances and the ability to adjust focus for prolonged periods (i.e., computer screen, flight displays)
  • Ability to remain sedentary or stationary for prolonged periods of time
  • Ability to write for extended periods of time
  • Ability to work in an office setting for prolonged periods of time
  • May be asked to carry up to 20 lbs. up and down a flight of stairs on a regular basis such as files, books, office equipment, test hardware, etc.
  • Occasional reaching overhead and lifting up to 15 pounds
  • Ability to converse and communicate information with others
  • Occasional exposure to chemical vapors and/or fumes in low non-hazardous concentration
  • Potential to climb up and down steps on a daily basis
  • Must be able to read and understand Safety Data Sheets (SDS)