Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of rapid technological advancement, the role of Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians has become increasingly crucial.

As we push the boundaries of flight and space exploration, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, operate, and maintain our aerospace systems continues to grow.

But what does an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician actually do?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
A hiring manager creating the profile for your ideal candidate,
Or simply curious about the intricacies of aerospace engineering and operations,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s take flight and delve deeper.

Contents show

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians are involved in the design, testing, and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft.

They work closely with Aerospace Engineers to ensure that designs meet engineering principles and customer requirements.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

Assist aerospace engineers in the design and development of aircraft and spacecraft.
Conduct tests on aircraft and spacecraft components and evaluate their performance.
Operate and calibrate computer systems to meet the requirements for flight simulation and testing.
Assemble aircraft and spacecraft parts, following detailed instruction manuals.
Maintain records of maintenance and repair work to ensure aircraft and spacecraft meet safety regulations.
Install and check instrumentation in test aircraft and spacecraft for testing equipment.
Monitor and ensure compliance with safety procedures during aircraft and spacecraft testing.
Identify problems during testing and collaborate with engineers to troubleshoot and fix issues.
Help design and develop new testing procedures.
Prepare reports on test results and present findings to engineers and management.

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a detail-oriented Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician to assist engineers in designing, developing, and testing aircraft and spacecraft.

Responsibilities include working on computer simulations, testing new designs, troubleshooting testing equipment, and analyzing results.

Our ideal candidate has a firm grasp of mathematics and physics, can work with precision, and has a keen interest in aerospace technologies.

The primary role of the Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician is to maintain high standards of accuracy, precision, and problem-solving in a high-tech engineering environment.

Responsibilities

Assist in the design and development of aircraft and spacecraft
Conduct tests on models in wind tunnels or other experimental environments
Collect and analyze test data
Troubleshoot and repair malfunctioning test equipment
Help engineers in creating design and specification documents
Prepare reports on project or test results
Install instruments in aircraft and spacecraft
Monitor and verify quality in accordance with statistical process or other control procedures

Qualifications

Proven work experience as an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician or similar role
Technical understanding of aerospace engineering principles
Proficient in the use of CAD software
Excellent problem-solving abilities
Attention to detail and precision
Good mathematical and physics skills
Associate degree in aerospace engineering technology or relevant field

Benefits

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

Additional Information

Job Title: Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician
Work Environment: A mixture of office, lab and on-site work. Some travel may be required for testing and field operations.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Senior Aerospace Engineer or Project Manager.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $52,000 minimum to $98,000 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 Engineering and Operations Technician Do?

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians work primarily in the aerospace industry, including both aircraft and spacecraft production and operations.

They assist aerospace engineers in designing, developing, and testing aircraft and aerospace products.

This involves the use of computer-based modeling and simulation tools.

They are responsible for diagnosing malfunctions in existing equipment and systems, and then implementing appropriate repairs or modifications.

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians also operate and calibrate computer systems to achieve the desired performance of test facilities and flight systems.

They can be involved in quality assurance, checking the assemblies and systems for adherence to design specifications, and assisting in product validation and verification processes.

Furthermore, they often conduct pre-flight tests on aircraft to ensure that all systems are functioning properly and safely.

They collaborate closely with other professionals such as mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and manufacturers in the development and application of aerospace products.

In some cases, Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians may also provide technical support to clients, explaining complex aerospace systems and equipment in a comprehensible manner.

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Qualifications and Skills

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians require a blend of technical skills, soft skills and specific industry knowledge, which include:

Strong technical expertise to understand complex aerospace systems and equipment, as well as to diagnose and repair any technical issues that may arise.
Proficient in the use of computer-aided design (CAD) software to create blueprints and schematics for aerospace vehicles.
Exceptional attention to detail to ensure safety and compliance with engineering standards and regulations.
Problem-solving skills to identify and correct issues during testing and operation phases.
Excellent communication skills to effectively explain technical information to engineers, pilots, and maintenance crew, and to work effectively in team environments.
Physical ability to work with heavy machinery and equipment and in a variety of environments including hangars, repair stations, and control towers.
Mathematical skills for calculating specifications, setting up equipment, and analyzing data.
Understanding of physics and aerodynamics principles to implement them in the design and testing of aerospace vehicles and systems.

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Experience Requirements

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians typically require an associate degree in aerospace engineering technology or a related field.

These programs often include courses in computer science, chemistry, physics, and mathematics to provide a solid foundation for the role.

Internship opportunities and on-the-job training programs are also crucial for gaining practical experience.

In these roles, prospective Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians can gain hands-on experience in areas like testing, operation, maintenance, and repair of aircraft and spacecraft equipment.

For entry-level roles, employers usually seek candidates with at least 1 to 2 years of experience in the field, which can be obtained through internships or part-time roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are often considered for more complex technical roles, as they have had the opportunity to develop their practical skills and theoretical knowledge in the industry.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have assumed some leadership responsibilities in their previous roles and could be considered for managerial or team-lead positions.

Additional relevant certifications or a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field can also enhance job prospects and potential for advancement.

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Education and Training Requirements

An Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician typically requires an associate degree in aerospace engineering technology or a related field.

These programs provide technicians with the necessary skills and knowledge in areas such as aerodynamics, physics, and propulsion, among others.

In addition to their degree, Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians should have a strong background in computer science, as they often use computer-based simulation tools.

Although not mandatory, professional certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) can be beneficial.

This certification demonstrates a high level of competence and could potentially lead to career advancement opportunities.

Some Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians may also choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a similar field.

This further education can provide a deeper understanding of the complexities of aerospace systems and could lead to higher-level positions within the field.

Continuing education and staying abreast with the latest technological advancements in aerospace engineering is also crucial for these professionals.

Many participate in workshops, seminars, and training programs that focus on new developments and techniques in the field.

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Salary Expectations

An Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician typically earns an average salary of $68,570 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary significantly based on the technician’s experience, level of education, geographical location, and the specific sector in which they are employed.

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician Job Description FAQs

What are the essential skills for an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician?

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians must have strong problem-solving skills, as they often have to troubleshoot and resolve issues with aircraft and spacecraft equipment.

They also need to have excellent mechanical skills to work with tools and understand complex machines.

Additionally, strong computer skills are necessary to operate and maintain software systems.

Precision is also crucial in this role as a slight mistake can have significant consequences.

What qualifications are required for an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician?

Most Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians have an associate’s degree or equivalent training in a program accredited by ABET.

These programs typically include courses in engineering principles, physics, and computer-aided design (CAD).

Technicians also receive on-the-job training after hiring.

Certification, though not a necessity, can provide a competitive edge in the job market.

What should you look for in an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician resume?

First, look for the necessary qualifications, such as an associate’s degree in engineering technology or a related field.

Relevant work experience, especially hands-on experience with aircraft or spacecraft equipment, is also crucial.

Technical skills, such as knowledge of CAD software, testing equipment, and analytical tools, should also be evident on their resume.

Certifications from recognized institutions can also be a plus.

What qualities make a good Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician?

A good Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician should be detail-oriented, as precision is vital in this role.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure, as they may need to troubleshoot complex issues under tight deadlines.

Good communication skills are also crucial, as they will need to work in teams and explain their findings to others.

Lastly, a passion for aviation and space exploration can be a driving factor for success in this role.

Is it difficult to hire Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians?

Hiring Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians can be challenging due to the specialized skills and education required for the role.

There is also high competition in the aerospace industry, which makes it harder to attract and retain top talent.

Therefore, offering competitive salaries, clear career growth paths, and stimulating work environments can help in hiring and retaining these technicians.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve traversed the vast expanse of what it truly means to be an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not all about spacecraft assembly or testing aircraft systems.

It’s about forging the future of aviation and space exploration, one technical operation at a time.

With our go-to aerospace engineering and operations technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to take flight.

But why limit your journey to the stratosphere?

Rocket further with our job description generator. It’s your launch pad to creating spot-on job listings or polishing your resume to stellar standards.

Don’t forget:

Every technical operation propels the larger mission forward.

Let’s navigate the future of aerospace. Together.

Reasons to Become an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician (Take-Off to Success)

How to Become an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician (Complete Guide)

Disadvantages of Being an Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician (Not Always Uplifting!)

The Laid-Back Lane to Success: Careers Without the Stress

The Thrill of the Challenge: Why Dangerous Jobs Appeal to Many

Beyond 9-to-5: Remote Jobs That Offer a World of Opportunities!

Eccentrically Earning: The Strangest Ways to Make a Living