Requirements of an Aerospace Engineer
An aerospace engineer, also called by some a “rocket scientist,” works in the production and maintenance of passenger planes, helicopters and rockets. It is a challenging job that requires the engineer to not only meet the training and educational requirements but to also possess personal traits that make him fit to perform this type of work.
- An aerospace engineer must have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. Academic requirements for the completion of a degree include courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer science, materials science, statistics and engineering, as well as courses on fluid dynamics and thermodynamics.
- A master’s or a doctoral degree is not required for an entry-level position. However, a research or faculty level position at a higher education institution will require a graduate degree in aerospace engineering.
- All engineers, including aerospace engineers, have to be licensed in order to offer services to the public. A licensed engineered is a Professional Engineer. The licensing process can be split in two stages. They can take the initial Fundamentals of Engineering examination upon graduation from college. The second exam, Principles and Practice of Engineering, can be taken after they have gained some work experience.
- Finding a job in this field is difficult because it is very competitive. Any experience, including internships and summer jobs, will help the aerospace engineer to find an entry-level job. Many choose to relocate to states where there are more aerospace job opportunities, such as California, Washington State and Texas.
- An aerospace engineer must have the following personal qualities: problem-solving skills, good team player, follow instructions carefully, good oral and written communication skills, responsible, dedicated, patient, and creative; pay close attention to details and be physically fit to work in extreme conditions.