Aerospace Materials Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of innovation and exploration, the focus on aerospace materials engineers has never been stronger.

As space technology propels us further, the demand for proficient engineers who can create, enhance, and ensure the integrity of our aerospace materials is in full swing.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core aspects of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate processes of aerospace engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable aerospace materials engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Aerospace Materials Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Aerospace Materials Engineers specialize in the development, testing, and production of materials used in the creation of aircraft and spacecraft.

They require a strong understanding of physics, material science and engineering principles.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and testing new materials for use in the construction of aircraft and spacecraft
• Evaluating materials for weight, strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness
• Designing and implementing tests to evaluate the impact of various conditions on the materials
• Researching and developing innovative solutions to improve the performance and efficiency of materials
• Working closely with design engineers to ensure that the materials used meet the specific requirements of each project
• Ensuring that all materials used comply with industry and government regulations
• Documenting findings and procedures for future reference and improvement
• Collaborating with suppliers to source high-quality materials
• Maintaining an understanding of the latest advancements in aerospace materials science
• Inspecting finished products for quality and adherence to specifications

 

Aerospace Materials Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Aerospace Materials Engineer to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for the design, development, and testing of materials used in aerospace applications.

This includes evaluating the properties of metals, plastics, ceramics, and other materials to determine their suitability for use in aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of materials science, metallurgy, and mechanical engineering.

They are detail-oriented, analytical, and able to work effectively in a team-based environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct material selection for aerospace systems and components
• Design and implement testing methodologies for materials
• Analyze data from materials testing and operation to assess performance and lifespan
• Collaborate with designers and manufacturers to develop and optimize materials
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations
• Assess the impact of materials on the environment and human health
• Identify and solve problems related to materials performance
• Stay up-to-date with latest advancements in aerospace materials technology

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in materials science, aerospace engineering, or a related field
• Proven experience as a materials engineer, preferably in the aerospace industry
• Strong understanding of materials science and engineering principles
• Proficiency with CAD software and materials testing equipment
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work in a team-based environment

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Relocation assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aerospace Materials Engineer
• Work Environment: This position is primarily office-based, with occasional visits to manufacturing and testing facilities. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: The Aerospace Materials Engineer reports to the Lead Engineer or Engineering Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $130,000 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 Materials Engineer Do?

Aerospace Materials Engineers work mainly within the aerospace industry, although they can also be found in research institutions, manufacturers and regulatory agencies.

They are primarily responsible for developing, testing, and selecting materials that are used in the design and production of aircraft and spacecraft.

This could include materials for the aircraft body, engine, insulation, electronics, and other components.

Aerospace Materials Engineers work on a variety of materials including metals, ceramics, plastics, composites, and nanomaterials.

They test the behavior and durability of these materials under different conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and stress, to ensure they can withstand the extreme conditions of space travel or high altitude flight.

Their job also involves researching and developing new materials that can improve the performance, reduce the weight, increase the longevity, or decrease the cost of aerospace vehicles.

They often work in a team with other engineers and scientists, including aerospace engineers, mechanical engineers, and physicists.

They need to communicate their findings effectively, write reports, and provide recommendations based on their research.

In some roles, Aerospace Materials Engineers may also be involved in failure analysis, investigating why a material or component failed, and how to prevent it in the future.

This could involve microscopic examination, chemical analysis, or stress testing.

They must always be aware of safety and environmental regulations, ensuring that materials used are not harmful to the environment or the people using them.

 

Aerospace Materials Engineer Qualifications and Skills

Aerospace Materials Engineers need to have a blend of technical knowledge, practical skills, and strategic thinking.

Their qualifications and skills might include:

• Strong foundation in materials science, including the properties and behaviors of different materials used in aerospace applications
• Understanding of how materials respond to different environments and conditions, such as heat, pressure, and radiation
• Practical skills in using various testing methods and tools to assess the performance of materials in different conditions
• Problem-solving abilities to identify and address issues related to the performance and functionality of materials
• Research skills to keep up-to-date with latest advancements in materials technology and incorporate them into their work
• Communication skills to effectively share findings with team members, stakeholders, and other interested parties
• Collaboration skills to work with multidisciplinary teams of designers, engineers, and technicians
• Project management skills to plan, coordinate, and oversee material testing and implementation processes
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulations in the aerospace industry
• Ability to use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software

 

Aerospace Materials Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Aerospace Materials Engineers typically have gained experience through internships or co-op roles during their undergraduate studies in Aerospace Engineering or Materials Engineering.

This hands-on experience often includes research, design, testing, and analysis of materials used in aerospace applications.

Candidates with 1 to 3 years of experience may have worked in junior Aerospace Materials Engineer roles, or related positions, where they gained practical knowledge in material properties, failure analysis, and material processing techniques.

These professionals may also have experience in composite materials, polymers, ceramics, or metals used in the aerospace industry.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience often have deeper expertise in selecting and testing aerospace materials.

They may have been involved in the design and implementation of new materials, troubleshooting material failures, and improving manufacturing processes for material production.

Engineers with more than 5 years of experience typically have demonstrated technical leadership in materials engineering for aerospace applications.

They may have led project teams, developed and implemented strategic materials engineering initiatives, or been involved in innovative research and development projects.

These senior engineers may be ready for roles that include project management, team leadership, or technical strategy development.

 

Aerospace Materials Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Aerospace Materials Engineers typically require a bachelor’s degree in materials science, materials engineering, metallurgical engineering, or a related field.

These programs provide a strong foundation in understanding and applying the principles of materials science and engineering to the design, manufacture, and operation of aerospace systems and components.

In addition to the bachelor’s degree, some positions may require a master’s degree or a Ph.D., especially for roles involving research and development or teaching.

A master’s degree would typically be in aerospace engineering or a closely related engineering field.

Certification from a recognized professional body, such as the American Society for Metals (ASM) International, can also be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate a high level of competency and commitment to the profession.

Engineers who offer their services directly to the public must also be licensed as Professional Engineers (PEs).

Licensure generally requires a degree from an accredited engineering program, a passing score on the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, relevant work experience, and a passing score on the Professional Engineering (PE) exam.

Continuing education to keep up with rapid advancements in technology is important for an Aerospace Materials Engineer.

This could involve completing coursework, attending workshops or conferences, or pursuing additional degrees or certifications.

 

Aerospace Materials Engineer Salary Expectations

An Aerospace Materials Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $87,040 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, the employing organization, and location.

 

Aerospace Materials Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Aerospace Materials Engineer need?

An Aerospace Materials Engineer needs a strong foundation in material science and engineering principles.

This includes knowledge of composite materials and their behavior under different conditions.

They need good problem-solving skills to identify and overcome materials-related challenges in aerospace projects.

They should also have excellent communication skills to present their findings to non-technical team members.

Familiarity with various software tools and simulation models is also important.

 

Do Aerospace Materials Engineers need a degree?

Yes, a degree in materials engineering, aerospace engineering, or a closely related field is usually required to become an Aerospace Materials Engineer.

Many employers prefer candidates who have a master’s degree or higher, especially for more advanced positions.

Continuing education to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in materials science and aerospace technology is also important.

 

What should you look for in an Aerospace Materials Engineer resume?

An Aerospace Materials Engineer’s resume should showcase a solid education background in materials science or aerospace engineering.

Look for relevant work experience, especially in the aerospace industry.

Any experience with specific materials or processes used in aerospace (like composites, alloys, ceramics, etc.) should be highlighted.

Proficiency in CAD software, simulation tools, and other technical skills are also important to note.

 

What qualities make a good Aerospace Materials Engineer?

A good Aerospace Materials Engineer should have a deep understanding of materials science, especially as it applies to the aerospace industry.

They should be highly analytical, detail-oriented, and able to work well in a team.

Good problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively can help them overcome materials-related challenges in aerospace projects.

They should also be eager to learn about new materials and technologies that could improve aerospace design and performance.

 

Is it difficult to hire Aerospace Materials Engineers?

Hiring Aerospace Materials Engineers can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the work and the high level of expertise required.

Employers must be prepared to attract candidates with competitive salaries, opportunities for advancement, and interesting, cutting-edge projects.

It can also be helpful to partner with universities or professional organizations to identify promising candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of an aerospace materials engineer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about understanding materials and their properties.

It’s about designing the future of flight, one material at a time.

With our comprehensive aerospace materials engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re on the launchpad ready for takeoff.

But why stop there?

Propel further with our job description generator. It’s your launchpad to precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every material choice is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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