What is an Aircraft Design Engineer job?
An aircraft design engineer is a professional who is responsible for designing, developing and testing aircraft and aerospace systems. This job requires knowledge in engineering principles, physics, mathematics, and aerodynamics. The design engineer works to ensure that the aircraft they design is safe, efficient, and meets the required performance standards.
What usually do in this position?
Aircraft design engineers usually work in a team environment and collaborate with other professionals such as aerospace engineers, mechanical engineers, and electrical engineers. They are responsible for designing and developing components such as wings, fuselage, landing gear, control systems, and propulsion systems. They also perform various tests on their designs to ensure that they meet the required safety and performance standards. Additionally, they are responsible for creating technical drawings, specifications, and documentation for their designs.
Top 5 Skills for this Position
- Strong technical skills in engineering principles, physics, mathematics, and aerodynamics.
- Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Excellent communication skills to work in a team environment and communicate with other professionals.
- Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues during the design and testing process.
- Attention to detail to ensure that designs meet the required standards for safety and performance.
How to Become this Type of Specialist
To become an aircraft design engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Some employers may also require a master's degree or relevant work experience. In addition to formal education, you need to have strong technical skills in engineering principles, mathematics, and physics. You also need to have experience working with CAD software and other design tools.
Average Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for aerospace engineers, including aircraft design engineers, was $116,500 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
Roles and Types
Aircraft design engineers can work in various roles and types of organizations. Some work for aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing or Airbus, while others work for government agencies such as NASA or the Department of Defense. Some may also work for consulting firms that provide engineering services to various clients.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
The states with the highest employment levels for aerospace engineers, including aircraft design engineers, are California, Texas, Florida, Washington, and Virginia. However, job opportunities can also be found in other states such as Arizona, Colorado, and Ohio.
What are the Typical Tools
Aircraft design engineers use various tools and software for designing and developing aircraft. These tools include computer-aided design (CAD) software such as CATIA, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD. They may also use simulation software such as ANSYS and MATLAB to test their designs. Additionally, they use various measuring and testing equipment such as wind tunnels, strain gauges, and accelerometers.
In Conclusion
Aircraft design engineering is a challenging and rewarding profession that requires a strong technical background in engineering principles, physics, mathematics, and aerodynamics. To become a specialist in this field, you need to have a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field, experience working with CAD software and other design tools, and excellent problem-solving and communication skills. With the right skills and education, you can pursue a career as an aircraft design engineer and contribute to the development of new and innovative aircraft.