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Lead Aerospace Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Platform Aerospace

AEROSPACE ENGINEER III

Hollywood, MD · On-site

$113K - $147K/yr

Aerospace Engineer III DEPARTMENT: Aerospace Engineering REPORTS TO: Senior Aerospace Engineer ... Lead the design and development of aerospace systems, including aircraft, subsystems, and related ...

Platform Aerospace

$113K - $147K/yr

AEROSPACE ENGINEER III Hollywood, MD, US Salary Range: $113,200.00 To $147,100.00 Annually JOB ... Lead the design and development of aerospace systems, including aircraft, and related components.

Alutiiq

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$195K - $250K/yr

Provide SME-level technical leadership on complex aerospace systems engineering and integration challenges across Space Sensing programs Lead engineering trade studies, system concept evaluations ...

Alutiiq

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Provide SME-level aerospace engineering expertise for missile warning mission ground systems including command and control, mission processing, and ground segment architecture Lead engineering ...

Alutiiq, LLC

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$195K - $250K/yr

Taxable Entity MCCALLIE ASSOCIATES INC Job Title Aerospace Engineer Location CA Los Angeles AFB ... This position will lead technically complex engineering analyses, advise Government program ...

Alutiiq, LLC

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Lead engineering reviews of ground system designs, technical baselines, and architecture decisions * Support ground system integration with satellite segments and user segment systems * Provide ...

Novus Capstone, LLC

Aerospace Engineer

Edgefield, SC · On-site

Lead the design, systems engineering, analysis, integration, and testing of small satellite and UAV ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline. * 9 Years aerospace engineering ...

Alutiiq

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

Provide SME-level aerospace engineering expertise on missile warning ground processing, mission management, and operational delivery Lead engineering reviews of ground processing architectures ...

Alutiiq, LLC

Aerospace Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

Lead engineering reviews of ground processing architectures, mission management systems, and ... Citizenship * Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer ...

Specter Aerospace

Aerospace Engineer III/IV

Boston, MA · On-site

Lead the development and execution of numerical analyses of high-speed flight systems * Provide ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or other related discipline ...

Specter Aerospace

Aerospace Engineer III/IV

Boston, MA · On-site

Aero space Engineer III-IV Specter Aerospace is seeking an Aerospace Engineer III-IV to support the ... Lead the development and execution of numerical analyses of high-speed flight systems * Provide ...

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Lead Aerospace Engineer information

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$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead aerospace engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead aerospace engineer in the United States is $123,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead aerospace engineer do?

A Lead Aerospace Engineer oversees the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They manage engineering teams, coordinate complex projects, and ensure that all systems meet safety and regulatory standards. Their role involves both technical problem-solving and leadership responsibilities, such as delegating tasks, mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating with other departments. Lead Aerospace Engineers are crucial in driving innovation and ensuring the successful completion of aerospace projects.

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

To thrive as a Lead Aerospace Engineer, you need deep expertise in aerospace engineering principles, project management experience, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and industry-standard systems such as MATLAB and CATIA is essential, along with relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills enable effective team management and cross-functional collaboration. These skills are vital for ensuring technical excellence, meeting safety standards, and delivering complex engineering projects on time and within budget.

How does a lead aerospace engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during a project?

A Lead Aerospace Engineer frequently works alongside professionals from mechanical, electrical, software, and manufacturing disciplines to ensure all aspects of an aerospace project are integrated and aligned. This role often involves facilitating technical discussions, coordinating design reviews, and resolving cross-functional challenges to keep the project on track. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential, as the lead engineer must translate complex requirements between teams and stakeholders while maintaining project timelines and quality standards.

What is the difference between Lead Aerospace Engineer vs Aerospace Design Engineer?

AspectLead Aerospace EngineerAerospace Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentProject leadership, team coordination, overseeing design and testingDesign development, CAD modeling, component analysis
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aerospace manufacturers, defense contractorsAircraft manufacturers, aerospace R&D, engineering firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in aerospace engineeringFocus on technical design tasks and responsibilities

The main difference between a Lead Aerospace Engineer and an Aerospace Design Engineer lies in their responsibilities. The Lead Aerospace Engineer typically oversees projects, manages teams, and ensures technical standards are met, while the Aerospace Design Engineer focuses on designing and developing aerospace components. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Lead role emphasizes leadership and project management skills.

How much does a lead aerospace engineer make?

A lead aerospace engineer typically earns between $110,000 and $160,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior roles often include responsibilities such as overseeing design teams and working with CAD tools, with some positions offering additional bonuses or benefits.

What cities are hiring for Lead Aerospace Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Aerospace Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Lead Aerospace Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Aerospace Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Aerospace Engineer jobs?

For Lead Aerospace Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lead Aerospace Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

AEROSPACE ENGINEER III

Hollywood, MD • On-site

Platform Aerospace
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Platform Aerospaceexternal

$113K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: Aerospace Engineer III
DEPARTMENT: Aerospace Engineering
REPORTS TO: Senior Aerospace Engineer
CLASSIFICATION: Exempt

Primary Function

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Aerospace Engineer III to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for UAV design from concept and prototype through flight testing and production, including payload integrations and aircraft modifications. This role requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, project execution, flight testing, and a commitment to innovation and technical excellence.

Major Duties and Responsibilities
  • Lead the design and development of aerospace systems, including aircraft, subsystems, and related components.
  • Develop flight test plans, test procedures, flight cards, and testing documentation.
  • Conduct detailed engineering analyses and simulations to ensure system performance, reliability, and safety.
  • Plan, oversee, and support flight testing and validation activities.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineers, to ensure successful system integration.
  • Support and mentor junior engineers by providing technical guidance and professional development.
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, analysis reports, and user manuals.
  • Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and aerospace engineering best practices.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards and regulatory requirements, including FAA and related aerospace standards.
  • Prepare and present technical briefings, reports, and recommendations to management, customers, and stakeholders.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance engineering processes, products, and tools.
  • Perform other duties as necessary and/or required.
Basic Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering and 7+ years of aerospace engineering experience focused on aircraft design and development.
  • Proficiency with engineering software and tools, including CAD, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
  • Strong understanding of autopilot systems and aircraft flight tuning methodologies.
  • Strong knowledge of aerospace materials, structures, aerodynamics, and propulsion systems.
  • Experience in flight test planning, execution, and risk assessment.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment while managing multiple priorities.
  • Knowledge of aerospace industry standards and regulations.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience with project leadership and engineering program execution.
  • Experience supporting UAV/UAS design, integration, and flight test programs.
  • Familiarity with AS9100 quality standards and aerospace development processes.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to travel as required to support testing, integration, and customer activities.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, when required.
  • Ability to traverse manufacturing, hangar, flight test, and operational environments.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds as needed.