Aerospace Engineers

As in most engineering fields, there tends to be a hierarchy of workers in the various divisions of aerospace engineering. This is true in research, design and development, production, and teaching. In an entry-level job, one is considered simply an engineer, perhaps a junior engineer. After gaining a certain amount of experience, depending on the position, one moves on to work as a project engineer, supervising others. Then, as a managing engineer, one has further responsibilities over several project engineers and their teams. At the top of the hierarchy is the position of chief engineer, which involves authority over managing engineers and additional decision-making responsibilities.

As engineers move up the career ladder, their responsibilities tend to change. Junior engineers are highly involved in technical matters and scientific problem-solving. As managers and chiefs, engineers supervise, analyze costs, and relate with clients.

All engineers must continue to learn and study technological progress throughout their careers. Keeping abreast of engineering advancements and trends is essential, as is reading industry journals and taking continuing education courses offered by professional associations or colleges. In aerospace engineering, changes occur rapidly, and those who seek promotions must be prepared. Those who colleges and universities employ must continue teaching and conducting research if they want to have tenured (more guaranteed) faculty positions.