Creating Career Path...

Finding Further Careers...

Engineering

Aerospace Engineer

View this career for different education levels:

Primary Secondary Post-16

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, satellites, spacecraft, and missiles. In the UK, they play a key role in both commercial aviation and the defence industry. Their work involves improving flight safety, fuel efficiency, speed, and weight, as well as researching new materials and technologies. Aerospace engineers may specialise in areas such as aerodynamics, avionics, propulsion, or structural design. The role typically involves working in multidisciplinary teams, using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and ensuring that products meet strict safety and environmental regulations. Most aerospace engineers work for large manufacturers, government agencies, or research organisations, and the job may require security clearance for some defence projects.

Aerospace Engineer

📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for an aerospace engineer in the UK is approximately £35,000 to £60,000 per year, with experienced engineers and specialists earning upwards of £70,000.

Job Opportunities

There are around 6,000 to 8,000 aerospace engineering positions in the UK, with leading employers including Airbus, BAE Systems, and Rolls-Royce.

Industry Growth

The UK aerospace sector is the second largest in the world, employing over 110,000 people directly and supporting a further 140,000 jobs indirectly.

🚀 Careers in this path

Aircraft Design Engineer

Specialises in designing the structure and systems of new aircraft, focusing on aerodynamics, materials and safety.

Propulsion Systems Engineer

Works on the development and testing of engines and propulsion units used in aircraft and spacecraft.

Avionics Engineer

Focuses on the electronic systems used in aviation, such as navigation, communication and flight control systems.

Build a Strong Academic Foundation

Choose Relevant GCSEs

Select GCSE subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, and Design and Technology to build a solid base for further study.

Focus on achieving good grades, especially in Maths and Science subjects, as these are essential for future progression. Participation in STEM clubs or related competitions can also provide valuable experience and demonstrate enthusiasm for engineering.

Pursue A levels or Equivalent

Take A levels in Maths and Physics, and consider Further Maths or Chemistry, as these are typically required for university entry.

Most universities expect strong A level results in Maths and Physics for aerospace engineering courses. Exploring BTEC qualifications in engineering or relevant T Levels can also be an alternative route, but always check university requirements.

Gain Higher Education and Practical Experience

Apply for an Accredited Degree

Apply to universities for a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related subject.

Choose a course accredited by a professional body such as the Royal Aeronautical Society or the Engineering Council. This will help with future professional registration and employment. Most degree courses last three to four years full-time.

Seek Industrial Placements or Internships

Gain practical experience through a sandwich year, summer placements, or internships in the aerospace industry.

Industrial experience is highly valued by employers and can often lead to job offers after graduation. It also provides a chance to build professional networks and gain practical skills that complement academic learning.

Start Your Professional Career

Apply for Graduate Roles

Apply for graduate schemes or entry-level positions with aerospace companies, airlines, defence contractors, or government agencies.

Tailor your CV and cover letters to highlight relevant skills and experience gained during your studies and placements. Be prepared for technical interviews and assessment centres as part of the recruitment process.

Work Towards Professional Registration

Begin working towards Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status to enhance your career prospects.

Professional registration demonstrates your skills and commitment to the field. It involves a combination of academic qualifications, work experience, and professional development. Many employers support new graduates in working towards these qualifications.

Career Progressions

This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.

Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.

Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.

These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!

Sample Qualifications

The career title 'Aerospace engineer' most closely matches 'Aerospace engineer' because both involve designing, developing, and testing aircraft and spacecraft. They require similar qualifications in engineering principles, knowledge of aerodynamics, materials science, and systems integration specific to aerospace technology.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • applying directly

University

You could do a degree in aerospace engineering, avionics, or a subject like:

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

Postgraduate study

You may be able to do a master's degree in aeronautical or aerospace engineering if you've studied for a degree in a related subject, such as engineering.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

College

You could do A levels, a higher national certificate (HNC) or diploma (HND) in engineering before applying for a trainee technician job with an aerospace company.

Subjects include:

  • maths, physics and design and technology
  • mechanical engineering
  • aeronautical engineering
  • electrical engineering

You would then take further training to become a fully qualified engineer.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could do a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship to begin your career in the aerospace industry. Apprenticeships include:

  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Aerospace Software Engineer
  • Electro-Mechanical Engineer
  • Materials Science Technologist

You'll combine workplace learning with study for a degree at university.

Entry requirements

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

More Information

Work

You might be able to join a company as an aerospace engineering technician and do training on the job to qualify as an engineer.

Direct Application

You can apply for aerospace engineering jobs if you've got relevant qualifications and experience. For example, you might have worked in mechanical, electrical or electronics engineering.

More Information

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Royal Aeronautical Society for professional development, career resources and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about working in aerospace engineering from Careers in Aerospace.

Interested in More Career Paths?

Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.

Browse All Careers Generate New Career Path

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

Stay connected

Join our newsletter to stay up to date on features and releases

Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK

Phone
01603 273515

Email
[email protected]

Developing Experts

LessonsAboutResearchReportingPlans & Pricing

Legal

GDPRPrivacy PolicyTerms and ConditionsCookie Policy

Contact Us

Get in touchRequest SubscriptionChildren's CodeAbout UsCareers

Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.