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Similar Titles
Aerospace Engineer, Aircraft Engineer, Aircraft Systems Designer, Aerospace Design Engineer, Aeronautical Engineer, Aircraft Design and Development Engineer
Job Description
Between civilian and military aviation fleets, there are ~220,000 aircraft in the United States alone – and that’s just a tiny fraction of the total number worldwide! Every year, many of these aircraft designs are reviewed and updated to make improvements using the latest information in aerodynamics, materials science, structural analysis, and propulsion. This complex work is performed by expert Aircraft Designers, in collaboration with engineers, manufacturers, and government agencies.
From commercial airplanes and military jets to helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles, Aircraft Designers address challenges like boosting fuel efficiency, enhancing performance, reducing noise, and improving structural integrity and safety. They must also, of course, ensure designs are feasible and compliant with regulations.
Once initial designers are approved, Aircraft Designers use sophisticated software tools for modeling and simulation to test their designs under hypothetical conditions before physical prototypes are built. It can take several years for a new “clean sheet” design to develop from the concept stage to actual production and use in the real world.
Rewarding Aspects of Career
- Working on innovative, high-performance aircraft designs
- Contributing to advancements in aviation technology
- Opportunities to work on a variety of projects
- Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of experts
$152,999
The Inside Scoop
Job Responsibilities
Working Schedule
- Aircraft Designers typically work full-time, often exceeding 40 hours per week. They may need to work extra hours to meet project deadlines or resolve design issues.
Typical Duties
- Participate in reviews of existing designs and provide technical expertise
- Meet with stakeholders to review objectives, budgets, and timeframes for new or revised design projects
- Develop and refine aircraft designs using computer-aided drafting software
- Create detailed technical drawings and documentation
- Coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure feasibility, efficiency, and adherence to schedules
- Present design concepts to stakeholders. Incorporate feedback and ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations and standards
- Conduct simulations, stress tests, and wind tunnel tests to analyze aerodynamic properties, validate design performance, and evaluate materials for weight, durability, and cost-effectiveness
- Manage design iterations and maintain version control of documentation
- Collaborate with engineers to integrate systems, components, and advanced technologies such as avionics and propulsion systems
- Assess environmental impact and work on eco-friendly design solutions
- Conduct failure analysis and work on improvements for existing designs
Additional Responsibilities
- Engage in continuous professional development through courses and certifications
- Attend industry conferences and workshops to stay abreast of trends
- Collaborate with universities and research institutions
- Publish research findings and contribute to industry journals
- Mentor junior designers. Lead cross-functional teams in large projects
- Provide technical support during the manufacturing and testing phases
- Contribute to the development of company design standards and best practices
- Support marketing and sales teams with technical information
Skills Needed on the Job
Soft Skills
- Attention to detail
- Communication
- Creativity
- Critical thinking
- Decision making
- Innovation
- Patience
- Persuasion
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Time management
Technical Skills
- 2D graphic design tools: Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
- Project management software: Microsoft Project, Trello, or Asana
- Collaboration tools: Slack or Microsoft Teams
- Computer-aided drafting and 3D modeling: AutoCAD, CATIA, SolidWorks, Rhino, and Siemens NX
- Computer-aided manufacturing
- Computer numerical control (CNC) machining
- Electrical systems and integration: Altium Designer, EAGLE, and Mentor Graphics
- Ergonomics and Human Factors Engineering
- Human-Machine Interface design: Sketch, Adobe XD, or Axure RP
- Knowledge of materials: metals, composites, plastics, and their use in manufacturing processes
- Manufacturing constraints and lean manufacturing principles
- Photorealistic rendering and animations: KeyShot, V-Ray, or Lumion
- Product lifecycle management: Siemens Teamcenter or PTC Windchill
- Aviation regulatory standards and compliance
- Simulation software: ANSYS, Simulink, and MSC Nastran for structural integrity, aerodynamics, and crashworthiness testing
- Sound design and acoustics: EASE or SoundPLAN
- Surface modeling: ICEM Surf or Alias Surface
- Sustainability and eco-design
- Technical drawing and modeling: Alias, Blender, and DraftSight
- Vehicle dynamics and engineering: aerodynamics, structural analysis, propulsion systems, and avionics
- Virtual and augmented reality tools: Unity, Unreal Engine, or Autodesk VRED
Different Types of Organizations
- Aerospace manufacturers and suppliers
- Commercial airlines
- Defense contractors
- Educational institutions
- Engineering and design firms
- Government agencies
- Private aerospace companies
- Research and development firms
Expectations and Sacrifices
Aircraft Designers work on cutting-edge projects in dynamic work environments. They must collaborate with teams to produce highly accurate, reliable designs that comply with stringent safety and performance standards. The role demands meticulous attention to detail and continuous professional development to keep up with evolving aviation technology and regulations.
The job can require long hours sometimes, and the pressure to meet exacting standards is tough on some workers. Many designers, however, love the blend of technical challenges and creative opportunities. They find great satisfaction in seeing their designs come to life, especially after years of hard work.
Current Trends
A major trend in aircraft design is the use of lightweight composite materials offering reduced weight and improved fuel efficiency. Another trend is the development of electric and hybrid propulsion systems promising quieter, cleaner, and more efficient alternatives to traditional engines. Advanced avionics and automation technologies are also transforming the design industry while boosting safety and reducing pilot workload. Designers must keep up with these and other advancements during the design process to help enhance sustainability.
What kinds of things did people in this career enjoy doing when they were younger…
Aircraft Designers often enjoyed building and flying model airplanes, experimenting with design and mechanics, and engaging in STEM-related activities such as science fairs and robotics clubs.
Education and Training Needed
- Aircraft Designers usually have a bachelor’s (or in some cases, a master’s) degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field
- Some students major in mechanical engineering with a minor in aerospace engineering
- Completing a dual bachelor’s/master’s program may help save time and money
- Note, that some designers aren’t engineers. They come from an industrial design background but work closely with engineers to ensure designs are technically feasible
- For those without engineering degrees, specialized courses and certifications may provide sufficient technical knowledge, along with practical industry experience via internships, co-op programs, or hands-on projects
- As noted by Flying Magazine, “Most positions require a bachelor’s degree within a broad range of engineering or science fields in addition to aeronautics or astronautics, such as mechanical, electrical, structural, materials and even civil engineering. Other jobs might require training in systems safety, human factors, air-vehicle integration or aesthetic design. Most people entering the field are expected to have CAD/CAM and CNC training and capability.”
- Relevant coursework for aspiring aircraft designers includes:
- Aerospace Structures
- Aerodynamics
- Propulsion Systems
- Aircraft Performance and Design
- Flight Mechanics
- Avionics Systems
- Materials Science for Aerospace
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
- Aircraft Systems and Control
- Engineering Design Principles
- Safety Standards and Regulations in Aviation
- Sustainable Design and Eco-Friendly Practices
- Technical Drawing and 3D Modeling
- Virtual and Augmented Reality in Design
- Internships or co-op programs provide invaluable practical experience and hands-on learning opportunities
- Optional certifications that can enhance one’s credentials include:
- Additive Manufacturing Certification
- Aircraft Certification Specialist
- AS9100 Certification (certification in Aerospace Quality Management Systems)
- Certified Aerospace Technician
- Certified CAD Professional
- Certified CATIA Associate
- Certified Composites Technician
- Certified Professional Engineer
- Certified SolidWorks Professional
- Certified Systems Engineering Professional
- Project Management Professional
- Six Sigma Certification
- Sustainable Design Certification
- Staying current with evolving technologies and regulations is essential and can be done via professional development workshops or courses
- Joining professional organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics or the Society of Aerospace Engineers can provide networking opportunities and access to industry events
THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A UNIVERSITY
- Decide on a program format (on-campus, online, or hybrid) that suits your needs.
- Seek an ABET-accredited program at a school with strong aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or programs, well-funded labs, research opportunities, internships, and co-op programs with industry partners.
- Weigh the cost of tuition against available financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
- Assess faculty qualifications and alumni accomplishments.
- Consider post-graduation outcomes like job placement rates.
Things to do in High School and College
- Focus on art, design, and STEM courses like calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, statistics and probability, numerical methods, engineering mathematics, complex variables, physics, and computer science
- Study the history of aircraft designs, problems, and solutions. Review the most innovative designs and why they worked
- Think about the types of aircraft you want to design, or if you just want to focus on a particular component of an aircraft
- Join engineering clubs and take part in science fairs and competitions
- Seek internships, part-time jobs, cooperative educational programs, mentorship opportunities, or apprenticeships in design studios or aircraft manufacturing plants
- Keep track of your work and academic accomplishments for your resume and college applications, and build a portfolio of projects and research experiences
- Stay updated with industry trends and advancements by reading articles in Aircraft Design and other journals, or by watching informational videos
- Reach out to do an informational interview with a working Aircraft Designer. See if you can shadow them at work for a day
- Join online aircraft design-related discussion groups and professional organizations like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Review job posts and read the job descriptions to see what current qualifications and specializations employers are looking for
- Being a pilot isn’t required to be a successful Aircraft Designer, but having a private pilot’s license could show commitment to the aviation industry
Typical Roadmap
How to land your 1st job
- Jobs like these are often found through networking, so go to aviation-related events to grow your network
- Make a professional LinkedIn profile and website to showcase your work
- Research potential employers and visit their career pages for job openings
- Top employers of aircraft designers in America include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, General Dynamics, NASA, Gulfstream Aerospace, Textron Aviation, Blue Origin, and SpaceX
- Note, you may have to relocate to be close to where the jobs are!
- Be patient. Apply for internships, apprenticeships, co-op programs, and entry-level positions
- Ask your academic program manager if they have ties with local employers or recruiters
- Explore job listings on portals such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor
- Use an Aircraft Designer resume template to get ideas for formatting and phrasing
- Include relevant resume keywords such as:
- 3D Modeling
- Advanced Composites
- Aerodynamics
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aircraft Systems Integration
- Computer-Aided Design
- CATIA
- Flight Mechanics
- Materials Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Product Lifecycle Management
- Propulsion Systems
- Prototyping
- Regulatory Compliance
- SolidWorks
- Stress Analysis
- Thermal Analysis
- Wind Tunnel Testing
- Create a digital portfolio showcasing your projects and contributions. Detail your roles, skills used, and the impact of your work
- Prepare for interviews by brushing up on relevant terminology and trends
- Ask former supervisors and college professors for references or recommendation letters
- Utilize your university’s career center for resume help, mock interviews, and job fairs
- Review potential job interview questions, such as “What techniques do you use to ensure your designs are both aesthetically pleasing and functional?” or “How do you incorporate feedback from stakeholders into your design process?”
- Stay informed about the industry. Be ready to discuss trends and technologies during interviews
- Dress professionally for job interviews
How to Climb the Ladder
- Discuss advancement opportunities with your supervisor
- Volunteer for challenging projects to demonstrate your skill and adaptability
- Proactively seek additional education and training to benefit your career and employer
- Stay current with the latest software, tools, and methodologies
- Consider specialized certifications such as Aircraft Certification Specialist, AS9100 Certification, Certified Aerospace Technician, Certified CAD Professional, or Certified Professional Engineer
- Knock out your graduate degree to deepen your expertise
- Explore different areas within Aircraft Design to broaden your expertise. For example, if you usually only work on airplanes, try designing helicopters or drones
- Travel to other countries to learn about their design programs and styles. Study the work of the industry’s top designers
- Build strong relationships with colleagues, managers, and stakeholders
- Mentor junior colleagues or interns to develop leadership skills
Consider switching employers to advance your career. Move to cities known for aircraft manufacturing jobs such as Seattle, Washington; Wichita, Kansas; Fort Worth, Texas; Savannah, Georgia; Mobile, Alabama; and Long Beach, California - Keep active in professional associations to grow your network and reputation. Go to conferences, volunteer to serve on committees, and contribute scholarly articles to industry journals or publications
Recommended Tools/Resources
Websites
- Aerospace America
- Aerospace Industries Association
- Aerospace Manufacturing and Design
- Aerospace Testing International
- Airbus Technical Publications
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
- American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers
- Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International
- Aviation Week & Space Technology
- Boeing’s Innovation Quarterly
- Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
- Defense News
- European Space Agency
- Experimental Aircraft Association
- Federal Aviation Administration
- Flight International
- Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Aerospace and Electronic Systems Society
- Institute of Mechanical Engineers
- International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences
- International Council on Systems Engineering
- International Journal of Aerospace Engineering
- Journal of Aerospace Engineering
- Journal of Aerospace Information Systems
- Journal of Aircraft
- Journal of Propulsion and Power
- Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration
- Royal Aeronautical Society
- Society of Aerospace Engineers
- The Aerospace Corporation
- Vertical Flight Society
Books
- Aerodynamics for Engineers by John Bertin and Russell Cummings
- Aircraft Design: A Conceptual Approach, by Daniel P. Raymer
- Introduction to Flight, by Mary Bowden and John Anderson
Plan B
Aircraft Design is a rewarding and potentially lucrative career option, but it can be a tough field to break into. If you’re curious about jobs that require some similar skills, consider our list below!
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems Engineer
- Aerospace Engineer
- Automotive Aerodynamics Engineer
- Automotive Ergonomics Specialist
- Automotive Safety Systems Designer
- CAD Technician
- Concept Artist
- Digital Modeler
- Electrical Engineer
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Engineer
- Environmental Engineer
- Fuel Cell Engineer
- Graphic Designer
- Human Factors Engineer
- Industrial Designer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Materials Scientist
- Mechanical Engineer
- Mechatronics Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Product Designer
- Research Scientist
- Robotics Engineer
- Safety Engineer
- Thermal Systems Engineer
- Transmission Engineer
- User Experience (UX) Designer
- Vehicle Dynamics Engineer
- Virtual Reality (VR) Specialist
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