Aerospace Engineer Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of space exploration and technological advancement, the role of aerospace engineer managers has never been more crucial.

As technology continues to reach new heights, the demand for skilled individuals who can design, develop, and manage aerospace systems is growing exponentially.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an aerospace engineer manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to draft the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of aerospace engineering management,

You’ve landed at the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made aerospace engineer manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s blast off into it.

Aerospace Engineer Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Aerospace Engineer Managers are responsible for overseeing the design, development, testing, and production of aircrafts and spacecrafts.

They also manage and coordinate the activities of the engineering team, and ensure all work is carried out to a high standard and complies with safety regulations and protocols.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning and coordinating engineering projects in the aerospace sector
• Overseeing the design and development of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles
• Reviewing proposals for aerospace projects to ensure technical feasibility
• Directing and coordinating the manufacture, assembly, modification, and testing of aircraft or spacecraft
• Ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget
• Providing technical leadership and oversight to a team of engineers
• Developing and implementing engineering standards and procedures
• Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards
• Collaborating with project managers, clients, and other engineers to ensure the highest quality of products
• Performing a variety of complex engineering tasks, and providing guidance on these as necessary

 

Aerospace Engineer Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Aerospace Engineer Manager to lead our engineering team in developing cutting-edge aerospace technologies.

This role involves overseeing the design, development, testing, and evaluation of aerospace systems, as well as managing project timelines and budgets.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in aerospace engineering and will be able to guide the team through complex projects, ensuring that all engineering work is completed to the highest standard.

 

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of aerospace engineers in designing and developing new technologies and systems.
• Manage project timelines and budgets, ensuring that all work is completed on time and within budget constraints.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure that all engineering work aligns with company goals and standards.
• Oversee the testing and evaluation of aerospace systems, ensuring that they meet all necessary requirements and standards.
• Lead the resolution of technical issues that may arise during the design, development, and testing process.
• Maintain knowledge of the latest developments in aerospace technology and incorporate this knowledge into engineering work.
• Ensure the team adheres to safety regulations and procedures.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Aerospace Engineer or a similar role in the Aerospace Industry.
• BSc/MSc degree in Aerospace Engineering or relevant field.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent knowledge of the design, development, testing, and evaluation of aerospace systems.
• Proficiency in using industry-standard software and tools.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong project management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aerospace Engineer Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with some potential for field work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Engineering.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $150,000 minimum to $250,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aerospace Engineer Manager Do?

Aerospace Engineer Managers typically work for aerospace manufacturers, research institutions, government agencies, or consulting firms.

They oversee the design, development, and testing of aircraft and aerospace products.

This could include commercial and military airplanes, helicopters, drones, spacecraft, or defense systems.

In their managerial role, they supervise a team of Aerospace Engineers, ensuring that all projects and tasks align with their company’s goals, standards, and timelines.

They are responsible for delegating assignments, reviewing work, and providing guidance and feedback.

Additionally, they are involved in the budgeting, planning, and coordination of projects, ensuring that resources are effectively used and deadlines are met.

Aerospace Engineer Managers also work closely with other department managers and executives to develop strategic plans for product development and production.

Part of their role might also involve liaising with clients, stakeholders, or regulatory bodies, communicating project updates, or ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards.

They may also have a role in innovating and implementing new technologies in the field of aerospace engineering, contributing to the advancement of aerospace technology.

 

Aerospace Engineer Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Aerospace Engineer Manager should possess a unique set of technical and soft skills, along with industry knowledge to effectively oversee projects, including:

• Advanced understanding of aerospace engineering principles, including the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills to guide a team of engineers, delegate tasks, and ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget.
• Strong problem-solving abilities to identify, analyze, and address complex engineering issues.
• Superior communication skills to clearly convey technical information to team members, clients, and stakeholders, and to facilitate collaborative problem-solving.
• Strategic planning and project management skills to effectively oversee multiple projects at once, ensuring all objectives and deadlines are met.
• Proficient in using advanced computer-aided design (CAD) software, and knowledge of other relevant engineering software and tools.
• Understanding of quality standards and safety regulations in the aerospace industry.
• Ability to stay updated with the latest technological advancements in aerospace engineering and adapt to changes in the field.

 

Aerospace Engineer Manager Experience Requirements

Aerospace Engineer Managers often have extensive experience, usually around 5 to 10 years, in the aerospace engineering field.

This experience is typically obtained through full-time roles within the industry, after completing an accredited degree program in aerospace engineering or a related field.

Entry-level aerospace engineering roles, such as Design Engineer or Systems Engineer, provide practical experience in designing, testing, and refining aircraft and spacecraft components.

These roles often require a solid foundation in aerospace design principles, materials, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics.

As their careers progress, Aerospace Engineers often transition into senior roles like Lead Engineer or Project Engineer.

These roles require advanced technical skills and experience, often 3 to 5 years, in leading complex aerospace projects.

Candidates who are ready to move into an Aerospace Engineering Manager role typically have more than 10 years of experience.

This includes experience in managing teams, coordinating large-scale projects, and working closely with other engineering departments and external stakeholders.

In addition to technical and practical experience, many Aerospace Engineer Managers also have a Master’s degree or a PhD in a related field, which can provide additional knowledge and expertise that can be applied to managerial tasks.

Some also hold professional engineer licenses, which can further boost their credentials.

 

Aerospace Engineer Manager Education and Training Requirements

Aerospace Engineer Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or another related engineering field.

These degree programs provide students with the necessary technical knowledge and understanding of aircraft and spacecraft design, aerodynamics, and propulsion systems.

To further enhance their skills and knowledge, many aspiring Aerospace Engineer Managers also pursue a master’s degree in aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, or engineering management.

In addition to their formal education, Aerospace Engineer Managers need several years of work experience in the field.

They usually start their careers as aerospace engineers, gradually taking on more responsibility and moving into management roles.

Professional certification, though not a requirement, can also be beneficial.

Aerospace Engineer Managers can earn certification through various professional organizations, such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) or the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

Furthermore, Aerospace Engineer Managers should have a strong grasp of project management, team leadership skills, and excellent problem-solving ability.

They also need to keep up-to-date with the latest technological advancements in the aerospace industry.

Continuing education and training are crucial for staying competitive in this rapidly evolving field.

 

Aerospace Engineer Manager Salary Expectations

An Aerospace Engineer Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $133,843 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can greatly vary depending on factors such as years of experience, the geographical location, and the specific employer.

 

Aerospace Engineer Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aerospace Engineer Manager need?

An Aerospace Engineer Manager should have a strong background in aerospace engineering principles, along with excellent leadership and project management skills.

They should be adept at problem-solving, analytical thinking, and have a keen eye for detail.

They should also be proficient in using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and have a good understanding of mathematical and physical principles.

 

What qualifications are needed to become an Aerospace Engineer Manager?

The role of an Aerospace Engineer Manager typically requires a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field.

A Master’s degree or a Ph.D. can be beneficial, especially if one aims for a high-level managerial position.

In addition, several years of experience in the field is usually required, including experience in leading teams or managing projects.

 

What should you look for in an Aerospace Engineer Manager’s resume?

A resume for an Aerospace Engineer Manager should showcase a solid foundation in aerospace engineering, a history of managing teams, and experience with managing projects from inception to completion.

Look for evidence of strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills.

Additional qualifications, such as a master’s degree, certifications, or specialized training, can be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Aerospace Engineer Manager?

A good Aerospace Engineer Manager is someone who excels at leading and motivating a team, possesses a deep understanding of aerospace engineering principles, and is able to manage complex projects efficiently.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills, a strategic mindset, and be able to work under pressure.

Good communication skills are also crucial as they will need to liaise between different teams, stakeholders, and clients.

 

Is it challenging to hire an Aerospace Engineer Manager?

Yes, hiring an Aerospace Engineer Manager can be challenging as it requires someone with both a high level of technical expertise in aerospace engineering and excellent management skills.

Additionally, this role often requires several years of experience in the field, making the pool of qualified candidates smaller.

Therefore, to attract the best candidates, companies may need to offer competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

 

Conclusion

And there it is.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it truly means to be an aerospace engineer manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about designing spacecraft or aircraft.

It’s about architecting the future of aviation and space exploration, one blueprint at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive aerospace engineer manager job description template and real-world samples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why limit yourself?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your launchpad to meticulously crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to a T.

Keep in mind:

Every blueprint forms part of the grand design.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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