Aerospace engineer
Aerospace engineers design, test, build and maintain aeroplanes, spacecraft and satellites.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As an aerospace engineer, you could:
- build and test prototypes using computer aided design (CAD) software
- analyse test results to improve aircraft structures and aerodynamics
- research new types of fuel and ways to reduce engine emissions
- manage projects and supervise a team of engineers and technicians
- develop new instruments and software for spacecraft
- plan and supervise maintenance programmes
Working environment
You could work in a factory, in an office, on an aircraft or in an aircraft hangar.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could specialise in a particular field like:
- aerodynamics
- fuel efficiency
- space technology
- air accident investigation
You could also become a project manager, consultant aerospace engineer, or move into technical sales.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- maths knowledge
- design skills and knowledge
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of physics
- analytical thinking skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
You could do a degree in aerospace engineering, avionics, or a subject like:
- electrical or electronic engineering
- mechanical engineering
- manufacturing or product engineering
- physics or applied physics
- software engineering or mathematics
Postgraduate study
You may be able to do a master's degree in aeronautical or aerospace engineering if you've studied for a degree in a related subject, such as engineering.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
You could do A levels, a higher national certificate (HNC) or diploma (HND) in engineering before applying for a trainee technician job with an aerospace company.
Subjects include:
- maths, physics and design and technology
- mechanical engineering
- aeronautical engineering
- electrical engineering
You would then take further training to become a fully qualified engineer.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
More Information
You could do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship to begin your career in the aerospace industry. Apprenticeships include:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Aerospace Software Engineer
- Electro-Mechanical Engineer
- Materials Science Technologist
You'll combine workplace learning with study for a degree at university.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
You might be able to join a company as an aerospace engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.
You can apply for aerospace engineering jobs if you've got relevant qualifications and experience. For example, you might have worked in mechanical, electrical or electronics engineering.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Royal Aeronautical Society for professional development, career resources and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can find out more about working in aerospace engineering from Careers in Aerospace.
Related videos
Suggested videos
Coffee With is in early release mode with a limited number of videos. New videos are being added every week, so please check back for updates.
External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.