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

Jul 2, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Aerospace systems engineering is a discipline that involves the design, development, and maintenance of complex aerospace systems. This includes aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and other airborne objects. As aerospace systems become increasingly more sophisticated, the role of the aerospace systems engineer becomes increasingly important.

They are responsible for ensuring that these systems remain safe, efficient, and compliant with industry standards. The potential benefits of aerospace systems engineering are vast, ranging from improved safety and reliability to cost savings and increased efficiency. By utilizing their technical knowledge and experience, aerospace engineers can create innovations that lead to breakthroughs in the aerospace industry.

Consequently, their expertise is invaluable in the development of new aerospace technologies and in the optimization of existing systems.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become an aerospace systems engineer, you should begin by earning a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or another related field. Coursework should include mathematics such as calculus, physics, and computer programming.
Gain Relevant Work Experience. During college, seek internships and/or part-time jobs related to aerospace engineering. This will give you helpful experience and knowledge about the industry.
Obtain a Professional Certification. Professional certifications are not required for aerospace engineers, but they can be beneficial for advancing your career. The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) offers a range of certifications for different types of engineers.
Pursue a Master's Degree. To pursue a career in aerospace systems engineering, you may want to consider earning a master's degree in aerospace engineering or systems engineering. This degree can prepare you to design, develop, and maintain complex aerospace systems.
Join Professional Organizations. Joining professional organizations like the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) or the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) can help you stay on top of the latest trends in the field and gain access to networking opportunities.
Complete On-the-Job Training. Most employers provide on-the-job training for aerospace systems engineers. During training, you will learn about specific systems and technologies used in the field.

The field of aerospace systems engineering requires a high level of skill and qualification. To become a successful aerospace systems engineer, one must possess a strong background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles. they must possess excellent problem-solving skills, an understanding of the aerospace industry, and have the capacity to work with complex systems.

In order to acquire these skills and qualifications, it is necessary to pursue an academic degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. Furthermore, gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or working in industry is also advised in order to further develop their technical and professional skills. this combination of education and experience will enable them to successfully become a qualified aerospace systems engineer.

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Job Description

Design and develop aerospace systems, components, and processes
Establish and verify system performance requirements
Develop and maintain system architecture and design documents
Oversee system integration and test activities
Develop and validate system safety and reliability plans
Analyze data and recommend corrective action
Manage system integration and troubleshooting activities
Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
Develop and implement cost-effective solutions
Monitor and evaluate system performance
Conduct research and development to advance aerospace systems technology
Provide technical guidance and support to team members

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aerospace systems engineering
Understanding of aerospace systems design and development processes
Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications
Knowledge of aircraft control systems, navigation systems, and performance analysis
Proficiency in mathematical modeling and simulation of aerospace systems
Experience with software development for aerospace systems
Ability to troubleshoot complex aerospace system issues
Ability to work with cross-functional teams
Excellent communication skills
Knowledge of safety protocols and industry standards

The most important skill for an Aerospace Systems Engineer is the ability to think critically. This involves being able to analyze problems and develop solutions that are both efficient and reliable. Critical thinking is essential because Aerospace Systems Engineers must be able to identify potential issues and devise creative solutions that take into account the many variables of the aerospace industry, such as safety, cost, and efficiency.

In order to think critically, a Systems Engineer must possess strong problem-solving skills, be able to make accurate calculations, and have the ability to develop innovative ideas. the engineer must have a good understanding of physics, mathematics, engineering principles, and computer programming. With these skills, an Aerospace Systems Engineer can help create and maintain spacecraft, aircraft, or other technologies which can have a major impact on the world.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in aerospace systems engineering?
How would you approach the design and development of a new aerospace system?
What do you understand about simulation modeling and analysis for aerospace systems?
How comfortable are you with troubleshooting aerospace systems?
Are you familiar with aerospace industry standards and protocols?
What challenges have you encountered while working with aerospace systems?
What experience do you have working with teams on aerospace systems projects?
How comfortable are you with working with multiple stakeholders on aerospace systems?
What do you think are the most important aspects of designing and developing aerospace systems?
What strategies do you use to ensure the accuracy of aerospace systems data?

Common Tools in Industry

System Modeling Software. Used to create system models of aerospace systems to analyze performance and design requirements (eg: MATLAB, Simulink).
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Software. Used to simulate the flow of air around aircraft in order to determine performance and design requirements (eg: ANSYS Fluent).
Project Management Software. Used to manage project tasks, timelines, resources, and budgets (eg: Microsoft Project).
Stress Analysis Software. Used to analyze the structural integrity of aircraft components (eg: SolidWorks Simulation).
CAD/CAM Software. Used to design and manufacture aircraft components (eg: Autodesk Inventor).
Flight Dynamics Software. Used to analyze flight dynamics and control system performance (eg: X-Plane).
Avionics Design Software. Used to design avionics systems and components (eg: Altair Hyperworks).
Computer Aided Verification Software. Used to verify system designs and performance (eg: ModelSim).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS)
International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences (ICAS)
International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
American Astronautical Society (AAS)
The American Helicopter Society (AHS)
The International Association for the Advancement of Space Safety (IAASS)
International Space University (ISU)
International Association of Military Flight Surgeon Pilots (IAMFSP)
Women in Aviation International (WAI)

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Common Important Terms

Aircraft Design. The process of creating and developing aircraft designs, from conceptualization to testing.
Aerospace Engineering. A field of engineering that focuses on the development of aircraft, spacecraft, and other related systems.
System Integration. The process of bringing together components of a system to create a functional whole.
Flight Dynamics. The study of how forces and moments affect the motion of a flying object.
Propulsion Systems. Systems designed to provide thrust to an aircraft or spacecraft.
Avionics. Electronic systems used on aircraft and spacecraft, such as navigation, communications, and flight control systems.
Structural Analysis. The process of determining the strength and stability of structures and components.
Stress Analysis. The process of determining the stresses in a structure due to loads, vibrations, or other external factors.
Materials Science. The study of the properties, composition, and structure of materials.
Control Theory. The study of the behavior of dynamic systems and how they can be controlled.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are needed to become an Aerospace Systems Engineer?

To become an Aerospace Systems Engineer, you typically need a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. You may also need experience in aeronautics, aerospace engineering principles, and mathematics.

What are the job duties of an Aerospace Systems Engineer?

As an Aerospace Systems Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining aerospace systems for airplanes, space vehicles, missiles, and other related products. You will also be responsible for ensuring that these systems are functioning properly and meeting safety standards.

What type of work environment do Aerospace Systems Engineers work in?

Aerospace Systems Engineers typically work in office or laboratory settings, although they may also be required to travel to other locations to observe tests or review designs.

What is the average salary of an Aerospace Systems Engineer?

According to PayScale, the average salary for an Aerospace Systems Engineer is $85,327 per year.

What are some of the professional organizations for Aerospace Systems Engineers?

Some of the professional organizations for Aerospace Systems Engineers are The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), and The International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE).