Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
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.
Median pay: $82,890/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +8.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Test aircraft systems under simulated operational conditions, performing systems readiness tests and pre- and post-operational checkouts, to establish design or fabrication parameters.
• Identify required data, data acquisition plans, and test parameters, setting up equipment to conform to these specifications.
• Inspect, diagnose, maintain, and operate test setups and equipment to detect malfunctions.
• Confer with engineering personnel regarding details and implications of test procedures and results.
• Operate and calibrate computer systems and devices to comply with test requirements and to perform data acquisition and analysis.
• Record and interpret test data on parts, assemblies, and mechanisms.
• Adjust, repair, or replace faulty components of test setups and equipment.
• Fabricate and install parts and systems to be tested in test equipment, using hand tools, power tools, and test instruments.
What's the median pay for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians?
The median pay for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians is $82,890 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians?
Employment for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians is projected to change +8.1% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians?
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians?
About 900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.