How to become aerospace engineerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$134,960
25th–75th pct. $106,110–$169,690
Top pay (est.)
$267,700
Top 10% $205,890
Pay in 5 years
$154,500est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$176,800est.
$152,000–$205,200
Outlook score
58/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
66%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+8.3%
3,800 openings / yr
How to become aerospace engineers
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Aerospace Engineers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentThinking CreativelyCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeProcessing InformationAnalyzing Data or InformationOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Important abilities
Written ComprehensionOral ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningOral ExpressionWritten ExpressionMathematical Reasoning
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as aerospace engineers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.