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How much do freelance aircraft design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance 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 a freelance aircraft design engineer do?

A Freelance Aircraft Design Engineer is a professional who works independently to design, analyze, and improve aircraft structures and systems for clients in the aerospace industry. Their responsibilities often include creating technical drawings, conducting simulations, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and collaborating with other engineers or project teams. Unlike in-house engineers, freelancers work on a contract basis, which allows them to take on multiple projects for different organizations. This role requires strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and the ability to meet client specifications and regulatory standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance aircraft design engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Aircraft Design Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, strong CAD design capabilities, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Proficiency with specialized software like CATIA, SolidWorks, and familiarity with industry standards such as FAA or EASA regulations is crucial. Excellent problem-solving skills, clear communication, and the ability to manage projects independently distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and compliant aircraft designs while meeting client needs and project deadlines.

How do freelance aircraft design engineers typically collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams during projects?

Freelance Aircraft Design Engineers often work remotely and are required to communicate closely with clients, project managers, and other engineering specialists such as aerodynamics, avionics, and structural engineers. Collaboration is usually managed through regular virtual meetings, shared digital workspaces, and detailed progress reports. Clear communication and adaptability are crucial, as freelancers must integrate feedback, manage documentation, and ensure all regulatory and safety standards are met throughout the project lifecycle. Building strong professional relationships and proactively addressing client needs can lead to repeat business and referrals.

What is the difference between Freelance Aircraft Design Engineer vs Aircraft Design Engineer?

AspectFreelance Aircraft Design EngineerAircraft Design Engineer
CredentialsRelevant engineering degrees, certifications preferredSame as freelance, often with additional company-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, remote or on-siteTypically within a company's design department or firm
Employer & Industry UsageClients or freelance platforms in aerospace industryAircraft manufacturing companies, aerospace firms

Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but a Freelance Aircraft Design Engineer works independently on projects, offering flexibility, while an Aircraft Design Engineer is usually employed full-time within a company. The choice depends on your preference for independence versus stability.

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Freelance Aircraft Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Aircraft Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,999 per year, or $73.6 per hour.

Catia Structures / Systems Design Engineer

Seattle, WA • On-site

804 Technology
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about 804 Technologyexternal

$80 - $95/hr

Contractor

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Structures / Systems Design Engineer position is responsible for design of Primary & Secondary Metallic Structure, Composites, Systems integration, Layouts and routing. The candidate should also have overall aircraft design principles, modification, STC and experimental product development on airplane and rotorcraft.

In This Role You Will:

  • Review and understand customer specifications, technical documentation, ICD’s and aircraft structural / system configurations.

  • Lead and oversee the technical and design aspects for structures/systems installation.

  • Conceptual design of structural & System Installation modification to support Flight Test, Experimental aircraft.

  • Communicate and coordinate with technical disciplines to ensure deliverables are on target and meet specified requirements.

  • Peer drawing checking and the release of engineering documents, as well as day-to-day collaboration to resolve design conflicts and interferences.

  • Knowledge of basic stress methodologies to ensure initial concept design is optimized for stress review and analysis.

  • Prepare manufacturing drawings in line with ASME Y14.5 standards using GD&T for manufacturability.

  • Onsite support working with Maintenance to oversee modification implementation and other flight test activities at our Flight Test Facility.

  • Provide Production MRB support.

  • Work in close cooperation with other non-engineering disciplines such as Quality, Logistics, Methods, Customer support, etc. 

  • Keep an open and innovative mindset to implement improvements.

Qualifications

The Skills You Will Bring (Minimum):

Education:

  • Four (4) year degree in Engineering (Aerospace / Mechanical) or equivalent experience.

Experience:

  • Five or more years of relevant experience in performing structural design in Primary and secondary structure (Metallic and composite).
  • Knowledge of Fuselage, Wing, Nacelle design along with System installations.
  • Proficiency with CAD Systems CATIA V5, V6 and/or NX CAD to work in a PLM environment and produce 3D models, products, 3D MBD and/or 2D dwg.
  • Knowledge of major industry or regulatory standards, design criteria pertinent to structural design and best practices.
  • Familiarity and experience with design milestones CoDR, PDR, CDR and Final Release.
  • Familiarity with FAR Part 23 and Part 25 certification requirements and processes.
  • Desired Experience:
    • 747 Fuselage design (Section’s 41, 42 & 44) and Wing Design.
    • DeHavilland DHC7 & DHC8 models
    • General Wing Joint Design and Flight Controls.
    • Composite Fairing Design.
    • Reverse Engineering experience.
    • Experience with Electric Aircraft.
    • Flight Test experience.
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About 804 Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In today’s environment, successful companies need more than what just works, they need unique options for their individual business needs. 804 adjusts to changing needs and then helps clients expand to meet the unfamiliar without sacrificing their trust. 804’s greatest company value is what we deliver; we deliver people. They are the core of our business. That is why we only consider ourselves successful when our people deliver to your expectations.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cottleville, MO, US

Year founded

2004

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