Aerospace Engineers

Aerospace engineers research, design and develop aerospace vehicles, aerospace systems and their components, and perform duties related to the testing, evaluation, installation, operation and maintenance. Aerospace engineers are employed by aircraft and spacecraft manufacturers, air transport carriers, and in government and educational and research institutions.

Example Titles

aerodynamics engineer
aeronautical engineer
aerospace engineer
aircraft design engineer
stress engineer, aerospace
structural engineer, aerospace
systems engineer, aerospace
test engineer, aerospace



Main duties

Aerospace engineers perform some or all of the following duties:

• Design and develop aerospace vehicles, systems and components such as aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, satellites and space-based communication systems

• Develop and conduct computer simulations of aerospace vehicles, systems and components using advanced mathematical modelling

• Prepare specifications for materials and processes to be used in aerospace manufacturing, maintenance, repair or modification

• Supervise and co-ordinate the manufacturing, assembly modification, repair and overhaul of aircraft and spacecraft

• Co-ordinate ground and flight tests of air and spacecraft

• Develop operational specifications, maintenance schedules and manuals for operators

• Develop the technical phases of logistical and operational support for aerospace vehicles and systems

• Investigate and report on structural or other component or system failures, accidents or incidents and prepare recommendations for corrective action.

Employment requirements

• A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or in a related engineering discipline, such as mechanical engineering or engineering physics, is required.

• A master's degree or doctorate in a related engineering discipline may be required.

• Licensing by a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers is required to approve engineering drawings and reports and to practise as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).

• Engineers are eligible for registration following graduation from an accredited educational program, and after three or four years of supervised work experience in engineering and passing a professional practice examination.

• Supervisory and senior positions in this unit group require experience.