Aeronautical and Aerospace Technicians
Overview
Introduction
Aeronautical and aerospace technicians design, construct, test, operate, and maintain the basic structures of aircraft and spacecraft and propulsion and control systems. They work with scientists and engineers. Many aeronautical and aerospace technicians assist engineers in preparing equipment drawings, diagrams, blueprints, and scale models. They collect information, make computations, and perform laboratory tests. Their work may include various projects involving aerodynamics, structural design, flight-test evaluation, or propulsion proble...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Aerospace technology is a broad field, so earnings vary depending on a technicians specialty, educational preparation, and work experience. In May 2023, the median annual earnings for aerospace engineering and operations technicians were $77,830, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Salaries ranged from less than $50,050 to more than $113,970 per year.
Benefits depend on employers ...
Work Environment
The aerospace industry, with its strong emphasis on quality and safety, is a very safe workplace. Special procedures and equipment make otherwise hazardous jobs extremely safe. The range of work covered means that the technicians can work in small teams in specialized research laboratories or large ones.
Aerospace technicians are at the launch pad, involved in fueling and checkout proced...
Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor predicts faster than average job growth for aerospace engineering and operating technicians, and average growth for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians through 2032. Technicians will continue to have opportunities as manufacturers seek to design quieter and more fuel-efficient aircraft. Some jobs will be created in the emerging unmanned...