Aerospace engineering is one of the most lucrative fields and one can get going with a handsome paying job. The work of aerospace engineers is to design, test and develop aircraft, space vehicles and even missiles. They have to look after the work that is being done for the production of these crafts. The aerospace engineers have to specialize in any one of the several areas of specialization within the field. They also work for vehicles that are being used by navy such as submarines and other diving vehicles. Aerospace engineering has two branches namely, aeronautical engineering and astronautical engineering. The former deals with craft that stay within the Earth's atmosphere and the latter with craft that operates outside the Earth's atmosphere.

Job Profile/Description/Responsibilities

The aerospace engineers can work with private and government companies. Some work with aircraft companies and some with national defense departments and even NASA. There are companies under government that produce missiles and other aircraft. Some aerospace engineers concentrate on structures and specialize in the design of new frameworks for vehicles. Others work chiefly on guidance and control systems.

They may become experts in aerodynamics thermodynamics, celestial mechanics, propulsion, acoustics, or guidance and control systems.

Requirements

Academic

The minimum requirement for becoming an aerospace engineer is a bachelor's degree in engineering. There are certain jobs in this field that the graduates in mathematics or natural sciences can grab. To be a graduate in engineering the minimum time required is around four to five years. There are a number of colleges and institutes that offer undergraduate degrees in the field of aerospace, aeronautical or astronautics engineering. An advanced degree will also be an added advantage to get a good paying job in the field. To be a good engineer in aerospace, it is important to keep a check on the latest developments in the field so that you can stay updated. The engineers should have a license to work and for that you will have to get a degree from a recognized college or school.

Skill Sets

Aerospace engineering is a field that requires a person who has excellent knowledge of his own specialization field. He should be able to think critically and make use of logic and reasoning. At times, he will need to analyze a lot of options so he should be quick in decision making in order to identify the best possible solution. It is important to know how to manage time and complete the projects on time. This is one of the qualities that the employers look for in the aerospace engineers. It is important for the engineer to keep a check on his own performance so that he can take corrective steps.

Aerospace engineers generally work in teams and share information and ideas. They need to work well with others and be able to communicate their ideas. Engineers are problem solvers and should enjoy facing the challenge of a difficult problem. They must be patient and creative and able to pay close attention to the details of their work.

Training

The career of an aerospace engineer begins with graduate training so that they can work to get their license and work in the industry. The professional bodies want the students to become accredited with a chartered status so that they can give a new direction to their career. You can do this if you register yourself with some professional organization. They have to obtain a license in order to work for some company. The licensing process will first require you to give a test that deals with fundamentals of engineering. You ca give this test once you are graduate. There is another test that deals with principles and practice of engineering that the person has to pass in order to get the license. This you will have to give after you have at least four years of working experience.

Employment Outlook

Career Prospects (globally)

After an engineer has gained experience in the industry, they can advance to other positions in management and administration. It is possible for a person to start his own engineering firm once he has all the knowledge. A good growth has been predicted for this career in the years 2004-14. There will be an increase in the job prospects in military. If you are an aerospace engineer, make sure that you keep yourself updated with the latest information so that you can increase your chances of getting a job in different areas in the sector.

Salaries

The salaries will vary according to the degrees and diplomas and also according to the number of years of experience that a person has. The average salary of an aerospace engineer is $79,100 per year.

Benefits generally include paid holidays and vacations, health insurance, and pension plans. As you gain more experience the salary will increase.

Private and government companies hire aerospace engineers so you can be sure of the scope in the industry. You need to contact the private companies so that you can get a job with them. If you are interested in working with NASA, you need to contact them and know about the job openings. Look into the professional journals to know about more job openings.

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