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Job Description

An Aerospace Engineer applies scientific and technological principles to research, design, development, maintenance and test performance of civil and military aircraft, missiles, weapons systems, satellites and space vehicles. They also work on the different components that make up these aircraft and systems.

Entry Requirements

There are various ways in which you can get into this job role and the entry requirements can vary depending on what you choose to do:

College

You could complete a college course and then go on and do a higher national certificate (HNC) or diploma (HND) in engineering before applying for a job with an aerospace company.

Subjects include:

  • Level 4 HNC Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
  • Level 5 HND Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering
  • Level 5 HND Diploma in Electrical Engineering

The following local colleges offer courses in engineering:

You may need:

  • For a level 3 course: 5 GCSEs at grade C or above (Grades 9 -4) or equivalent to include Maths and English.
  • 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course

Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course

Apprenticeship

You can do a degree apprenticeship as an aerospace engineer. 

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

Click here to search for an apprenticeship.

University

You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in aerospace engineering, avionics, or a related subject like:

  • electrical or electronic engineering
  • mechanical engineering
  • manufacturing or product engineering
  • physics or applied physics
  • software engineering or mathematics

You'll usually need:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths

The Association of Aerospace Universities has more information about courses.

Career Path and Progression

With experience, you could specialise in a particular field like:

  • aerodynamics
  • fuel efficiency
  • space technology
  • investigating air accidents

You could also move up to become a project manager or consultant aerospace engineer.

Required Skills

  • A strong technical knowledge
  • Creativity and innovation to develop new designs
  • Able to use advanced mathematical methods to assist in design and problem solving
  • Attention to detail and methodical approach to work
  • Self motivated
  • Organised
  • A passion for aviation

Salary Range

£20,000 to £60,000

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