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

Aerospace Engineer