How to Be Aerospace hardware Engineer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 11, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The aerospace hardware engineer plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of spacecraft, aircraft, and other aerospace hardware. By leveraging their knowledge of engineering principles such as aerodynamics, structural design, and propulsion, as well as their detailed understanding of aerospace materials and components, they are able to design and manufacture reliable hardware that stands up to the rigors of space and flight. The result of their work is the safe, efficient operation of aerospace vehicles, and the successful completion of missions. This in turn helps drive innovation in the aerospace industry, enabling the advancement of space exploration, air travel, and commercial aviation.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become an aerospace hardware engineer, you will need to obtain at least a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. A degree in aerospace engineering will provide the most direct and relevant education for a career in aerospace hardware engineering.
Gain Relevant Experience. While working toward your degree, it is important to gain experience related to the aerospace engineering field. This can be done through internships, summer jobs, or part-time work.
Obtain Industry Certifications. Many employers prefer to hire aerospace hardware engineers who are certified by the National Aerospace and Electronics Association (NAEA). The NAEA offers a variety of certifications that can help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field.
Join Professional Organizations. Joining professional organizations related to aerospace engineering, such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), can help you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field and network with other professionals.
Consider Postgraduate Education. Obtaining a master's degree in aerospace engineering or a related field can give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs. This type of degree can also open up more advanced positions in the field.

The field of Aerospace hardware engineering requires a high level of skill and qualification. To be successful in this profession, it is essential to possess a strong technical skill set and a comprehensive understanding of the industry. This means having a thorough knowledge of aerospace materials, engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and design techniques.

having a good understanding of the regulatory requirements, safety standards, and testing procedures is also essential for success in this field. In order to gain these skills and qualifications, individuals must pursue additional education and training in aerospace engineering, as well as participate in on-the-job experience. By doing so, they can increase their knowledge and expertise, allowing them to make significant contributions to the aerospace industry.

You may want to check Robotics Hardware Designer, Systems Hardware Engineer, and Network Hardware Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Design and develop aerospace hardware components and systems.
Perform structural and thermal analysis of aerospace hardware components and systems.
Develop and evaluate test plans for aerospace hardware products.
Analyze customer requirements and develop designs that meet those requirements.
Create detailed drawings and specifications of aerospace hardware components and systems.
Research new materials, technologies, and methods for aerospace hardware development.
Develop software and hardware to control aerospace hardware components and systems.
Oversee fabrication and assembly of aerospace components and systems.
Develop and maintain quality assurance procedures for aerospace hardware components and systems.
Troubleshoot and resolve problems with aerospace hardware components and systems.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Extensive knowledge of aerospace engineering principles and practices.
Extensive knowledge of aviation regulations and safety standards.
Proficiency in the design, fabrication, testing, and analysis of aerospace hardware.
Proficiency in CAD/CAM software and other design tools.
Ability to generate reports and technical documents.
Proficiency in quality management and assurance processes.
Ability to work in a collaborative environment and provide technical guidance to team members.
Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to multitask and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

The ability to think critically and solve problems is an essential skill for an Aerospace Hardware Engineer. This involves the ability to analyze a problem, identify the cause, and come up with a solution. The experience of designing and building complex systems is also key to success in this field.

Having knowledge of materials, tools, and processes used in the development of aerospace hardware is also important. Good communication skills are also necessary for an Aerospace Hardware Engineer, as they need to be able to collaborate with other engineers and technicians to ensure the successful completion of projects. Finally, attention to detail is essential for ensuring components meet safety and performance requirements.

With these key skills, an Aerospace Hardware Engineer can be successful in creating and maintaining safe and reliable aerospace hardware.

Firmware Hardware Engineer, Hardware Technician, and PCB (Printed Circuit Board) hardware Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in Aerospace hardware engineering?
How do you approach solving complex aerospace hardware engineering problems?
What challenges have you faced while working on aerospace hardware engineering projects?
How do you ensure accuracy in aerospace hardware designs?
What strategies do you use to ensure quality control in aerospace hardware engineering?
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest aerospace hardware technologies?
How do you prioritize projects and tasks in aerospace hardware engineering?
What experience do you have working with aerospace hardware suppliers?
What safety protocols do you keep in mind when working with aerospace hardware?
How do you handle working with tight deadlines in aerospace hardware engineering projects?

Common Tools in Industry

CAD Software. Computer Aided Design software used to create 3D models and designs for aerospace hardware. (eg: SolidWorks, CATIA)
Flow Simulation Software. Software used to analyze and visualize fluid flow around aerospace hardware. (eg: CFD-ACE+, ANSYS Fluent)
Computational Fluid Dynamics Software. Software used to simulate airflow around aerospace hardware. (eg: STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM)
Finite Element Analysis Software. Software used to analyze the strength and durability of aerospace hardware. (eg: ANSYS, Abaqus)
Structural Analysis Software. Software used to analyze the structural integrity of aerospace hardware. (eg: ANSYS Mechanical, ABAQUS)
Stress Analysis Software. Software used to analyze the stress levels of aerospace hardware. (eg: ANSYS Structural, NASTRAN)
Computer-aided Manufacturing Software. Software used to create and control machine tools for manufacturing aerospace hardware. (eg: MasterCAM, Autodesk Fusion 360)
Product Lifecycle Management Software. Software used to manage the entire product lifecycle from design to production of aerospace hardware. (eg: Teamcenter, Oracle Agile PLM)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)
Society of Aerospace Professionals (SAP)
International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
National Space Society (NSS)
American Astronautical Society (AAS)
American Helicopter Society International (AHSI)
The Air League
International Astronautical Federation (IAF)

We also have Aerospace hardware Technician, Robotics Hardware Engineer, and Avionics Hardware Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Aircraft Structures. The framework and components of an aircraft that support and provide shape to the aircraft, including the fuselage, wings, tail, and landing gear.
Aerospace Materials. Materials used in the construction of aircraft and spacecraft, including metal alloys, polymers, composites, and ceramics.
Fasteners. Nuts and bolts used to secure components to each other in aerospace hardware.
Hydraulics. The system of fluid-filled components used to control the motion of aircraft systems, such as flaps, landing gear, and brakes.
Avionics. Electronic systems used to control and monitor aircraft systems, such as navigation, autopilot, and communication.
Flight Controls. The systems used to control the aircraft during flight, including the yoke, rudder pedals, and throttle quadrant.
Stress Analysis. The process of calculating the stress and strain on aircraft components and structures due to loads such as airspeed and maneuvering.
Structural Dynamics. The study of how aircraft structures respond to dynamic loads, such as gusts of wind or maneuvering forces.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The process of simulating the behavior of aerospace structures using numerical methods and computer modeling.
Weight & Balance. The process of calculating the mass distribution of an aircraft to determine its center of gravity and ensure safe operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is an Aerospace Hardware Engineer? A1: An Aerospace Hardware Engineer is a professional who designs, tests and manufactures aerospace components and hardware, such as aircraft and spacecraft parts, landing gear systems, engines, and avionics. Q2: What qualifications are needed to become an Aerospace Hardware Engineer? A2: To become an Aerospace Hardware Engineer, you will need a degree in engineering, such as aeronautical engineering or mechanical engineering. Additionally, knowledge of aerospace technology and mechanical systems is essential. Q3: What are the responsibilities of an Aerospace Hardware Engineer? A3: The primary responsibilities of an Aerospace Hardware Engineer are to design, develop, test and manufacture aerospace components, systems and hardware. This includes designing parts, systems and components that meet safety and performance requirements, as well as overseeing testing and troubleshooting of these products. Q4: How much does an Aerospace Hardware Engineer make? A4: The salary for an Aerospace Hardware Engineer will vary depending on experience and location. Generally, salaries range from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Q5: What are the benefits of working as an Aerospace Hardware Engineer? A5: Working as an Aerospace Hardware Engineer offers many benefits, including the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and technologies, the ability to work with a variety of professionals from different disciplines, and the satisfaction of creating something that has real-world applications.