Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Operate, install, adjust, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data.
SOC: 17-3021.00
Common Job Titles
Engineering TechnicianInstrumentation TechnicianSystems Test TechnicianTest Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate integrated computer/communications systems and data acquisition instruments to launch, track, and evaluate air and space vehicles following established aerospace protocols.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze test data and measurement results from aerospace vehicle systems using statistical and quality control methodologies to ensure compliance with performance specifications.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate aerospace system performance against engineering specifications by interpreting complex test results and identifying deviations from established standards.Proficient
- Hands-onCalibrate precision measurement instruments and sensors including accelerometers, pressure gauges, and strain gauges, maintaining traceability standards.Developing
- Hands-onExecute installation and maintenance procedures for simulators and consoles in laboratory and field environments, adhering to safety and technical protocols.Developing
- KnowledgeDiagnose malfunctions in integrated aerospace systems using troubleshooting methodologies and diagnostic equipment under time-sensitive operational constraints.Developing
- KnowledgeApply mechanical, electrical, and physics principles to optimize operation of aerospace test and measurement equipment in complex technical environments.Developing
- MindsetEngage with interdisciplinary engineering teams and supervisors to coordinate testing activities and communicate technical findings effectively.Developing
- Hands-onPerform nondestructive testing procedures using ultrasonic, X-ray, and dye penetrant inspection equipment to verify structural integrity of aerospace components.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and CAD models to guide equipment setup, testing operations, and quality assurance activities.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
9,060
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $53,730 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $120,440 |
| Workers on average earn | $86,330 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.5/5
- Engineering and Technology4.3/5
- Mathematics3.9/5
- Production and Processing3.8/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Apache HadoopAtlassian JIRAAutodesk AutoCADC++Dassault Systemes SolidWorksExtensible markup language XMLJUnitJavaScriptLinuxMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft SQL ServerMicrosoft SharePointMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WordOracle DatabaseOracle JavaPythonRed Hat Enterprise LinuxSAP softwareSeleniumStructured query language SQLUNIX
Technology Skills
Apache JMeterBugzillaComputer aided design CAD softwareComputerized numerical control CNC softwareCustomer information control system CICSDassault Systemes CATIAData acquisition softwareDebugging software
Tools & Equipment
Accelerometer sensorsAccelerometersAdjustable wrenchesAir drillsAir-supplying respiratorsAligning punchesAlignment squaresAllen wrenches