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Graduate Aircraft Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our dedicated team of experimental test pilots, engineers, mechanics, and technicians helps shape ... High school graduate or equivalent * Formal Aircraft Mechanic Technician training preferred

Our dedicated team of experimental test pilots, engineers, mechanics, and technicians helps shape ... High school graduate or equivalent * Formal Aircraft Mechanic Technician training preferred

$60 - $80/hr

Our dedicated team of experimental test pilots, engineers, mechanics, and technicians helps shape ... High school graduate or equivalent * Formal Aircraft Mechanic Technician training preferred

Our dedicated team of experimental test pilots, engineers, mechanics, and technicians helps shape ... High school graduate or equivalent * Formal Aircraft Mechanic Technician training preferred

Showing results 21-40

Graduate Aircraft Engineer information

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$48.5K

$80.8K

$119K

How much do graduate aircraft engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate aircraft engineer in the United States is $80,789.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $95,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate aircraft engineer?

Graduate Aircraft Engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently completed a degree in aerospace or aeronautical engineering and are beginning their careers in the aviation industry. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, assisting with the design, testing, maintenance, and improvement of aircraft and related systems. Their responsibilities can include drafting technical reports, conducting performance analyses, and ensuring compliance with aviation safety standards. Graduate Aircraft Engineers play a vital role in supporting innovation and maintaining the safety and efficiency of modern aircraft.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a graduate aircraft engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As a Graduate Aircraft Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and analytical tasks, such as assisting with aircraft maintenance checks, supporting design modifications, and conducting inspections under supervision. You'll likely work closely with experienced engineers and technicians, rotating through different departments to gain exposure to both mechanical and avionics systems. Collaboration is a key part of the role, as you’ll regularly communicate with maintenance teams, safety officers, and project managers. This diverse experience is designed to help you develop a strong technical foundation and identify areas for future specialization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate aircraft engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Aircraft Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, usually acquired through an engineering degree. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, simulation tools, and relevant industry standards or certifications like EASA Part-66 is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on complex projects and present technical information clearly. These skills are essential for ensuring safety, innovation, and efficiency in aircraft design, maintenance, and operation.

What is the difference between Graduate Aircraft Engineer vs Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

AspectGraduate Aircraft EngineerAircraft Maintenance Engineer
QualificationsTypically requires a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineeringRequires certifications like EASA Part-66 or FAA Airframe & Powerplant license
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, testing facilities, and initial aircraft assessmentsOn-site aircraft maintenance, inspections, and repairs
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aerospace manufacturers, defense contractorsAirlines, maintenance organizations, repair stations

The main difference is that Graduate Aircraft Engineers focus on aircraft design, testing, and development, often working in offices or labs, while Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining aircraft in operational settings. Both roles require relevant certifications and are essential in the aviation industry, but they serve different stages of an aircraft's lifecycle.

More about Graduate Aircraft Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Graduate Aircraft Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,789 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Sr. Associate, Electrical Engineer (Instrumentation/Aircraft Systems)

L3HHCM20

Greenville, TX

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Job Title: Sr. Associate, Electrical Engineer (Instrumentation Engineer Aircraft Systems)

Job Code: 40724

Job Location: Greenville, TX (On-Site)

Job Schedule: 1st Shift 9/80

Job Description:

The Sr. Associate, Electrical Engineer (EE) will be responsible for developing instrumentation systems for component tests, system integration lab tests, and aircraft ground/flight tests.  The EE will develop systems capable of interfacing with and collecting data from a wide variety of systems such as environmental control systems, bleed air Systems, hydraulic systems, fuel Systems, avionics systems, flight control systems, and power generation systems. The EE will be required to work through the whole life cycle of an instrumentation system. 

Essential Functions:

  • Developing system architecture, selecting components, programing the system and documenting the final configuration via drawings, schematics, and reports.
  • Assemble the physical instrumentation system and ensure proper function and calibration.
  • Implement the system which includes installing the system, operating the system, retrieving data, and data reduction.
  • Operate and maintain the instrumentation systems for the duration of the test efforts.  A portion of the test effort will require the engineer to fly onboard civilian or military aircraft.
  • Computer skills include proficiency with Excel and other Microsoft Office tools.
  • Hands-on electrical and mechanical skills (soldering, harness fabrication, troubleshooting).
  • Capable of using CAD software.
  • Familiar with sensor measurement capabilities: temperatures, pressure, flow, vibration, acoustic, position, strain, load, voltage and current.
  • Familiar with data acquisition: LabVIEW, PXI, C-Rio, C-DAQ, Encoders, Telemetry, serial communication, avionics data bus communication.
  • Understanding of aircraft systems and how they operate.
  • Developing and operating instrumentation systems.
  • Working around aircraft during flight line operations.
  • Strong communication skills are needed to interface with other engineering disciplines such as aerodynamics, structural dynamics, acoustics, mechanical systems, stress, and avionics to determine the overall requirements for each system.
  • Coordination skills to communicate test activities and schedule between test directors, project engineers, program managers, pilots, and customers.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret and/or Top Secret Clearance.
  • Other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree with two (2) years of developing instrumentation systems for component tests, system integration lab tests, and aircraft ground/flight tests experience. 
  • Graduate Degree with zero (0) years of developing instrumentation systems for component tests, system integration lab tests, and aircraft ground/flight tests experience. 
  • In lieu of a degree, minimum of six (6) years of developing instrumentation systems for component tests, system integration lab tests, and aircraft ground/flight tests experience. 
  • Must successfully pass Class III Flight Certification. (Flight Physical, Altitude Chamber, Ground Survival Training, Water Survival Training.)
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Aerospace.
  • Active Secret or Top Secret Clearance.
  • Aircraft Certification.

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