Aeronautical engineer
An aeronautical, or aerospace, engineer applies scientific and technological principles to research, design, develop, maintain and test the performance of civil and military aircraft, missiles, weapons systems, satellites and space vehicles. They also work on the different components that make up these aircraft and systems.
The role is focused on enhancing high-quality flight safety and standards as well as reducing system costs. Increasingly, the role addresses the environmental impact of air travel. Aeronautical engineering offers a wide range of roles in research, design, development, testing, manufacture and maintenance. Many engineers specialise in a particular area such as propulsion, computational fluid dynamics, aerodynamics or materials and structures. The aerospace industry is well established in the UK, and constant expansion in air travel means that large numbers of aeronautical engineers are needed.
Typical work activities vary according to the role, specialism and employer. Tasks typically include:
The most common route into this field is through studying a degree in aeronautical/aerospace engineering. However, employers may be open to other relevant degrees such as:
Entrance into this industry is highly unlikely without a degree. In order to register as an Incorporated (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng), you must hold a Bachelors degree or have equivalent educational experience. Entry to IEng or CEng level is not possible with an HND only, but it may be possible to be considered for technician-level posts.
A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is desirable, and an appropriate Masters degree, or other education to Masters-level, is necessary to register as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). An MSc in aeronautical/aerospace engineering is useful if your first degree is in a different subject. Postgraduate study may allow you to focus on a specific area of aeronautical engineering.
Pre-entry experience is advisable. Gaining work experience helps you learn key skills, develop knowledge and learn about potential employers. Many aeronautical engineering degree courses include sandwich placements. Work experience may also be gained through vacation work. You may be at a disadvantage without this experience. Employers value industrial placements as an opportunity to identify potential graduate recruits.
Candidates need to show evidence of the following:
Language skills may be useful because of joint ventures and the possibility of opportunities to travel to company sites outside the UK. Security clearance is required for security work. Due to the technical nature of this job, employers may stipulate that you have normal colour vision.
For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.
Graduates often start out on employer graduate training schemes. Additional training may also be undertaken while on the job. It is vital to keep up to date with technology, as developments in the fast-moving aerospace industry are closely linked to other scientific progresses. Work is monitored and can lead to corporate membership of a professional institution such as the Royal Aeronautical Society . The Engineering Council is responsible for setting the standard for recognition of professional engineers and engineering technicians in the UK through UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC) . They are responsible for granting Incorporated (IEng) and Chartered Engineer (CENG) status.
Training varies between organisations, but most large companies offer structured training and encourage professional/chartered status - particularly those with graduate employment schemes. Some company training schemes are accredited by professional bodies, such as the RAES. Companies usually offer in-service training and short courses to meet specific training needs.
Some employers work closely with universities to develop appropriate programmes for staff at different levels and in different specialisms. Larger companies may invest not only in technical training but also training in specialist topics including:
Other employers, however, are unable to provide training experience themselves, and it may be up to you to find and attend training opportunities.
The aerospace industry offers a range of career development opportunities. Aeronautical engineers may choose to pursue opportunities in specialist engineering roles, project management, procurement and planning, teaching and consultancy.
The aerospace industry has a strong track record of investing in its workforce through funding and supporting employee training as well as encouraging membership of relevant engineering institutions such as the Royal Aeronautical Society or the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) .
Professional registration demonstrates your commitment to the field and recognises your skills and experience. There are three types of registration. Engineering technicians (EngTech) are professional technicians with supervisory or technical responsibility who solve practical engineering problems. Incorporated engineers (IEng) manage and maintain technology applications and may be involved with engineering development, construction and operation. Chartered engineer (CEng) status adds impressive credentials to your CV demonstrating a commitment to your career and a desire to work at the top tier of the engineering profession. Chartered engineers develop solutions to engineering problems using new technologies, advanced designs and design methods. Registering demonstrates that you have reached the benchmark set by the Engineering Council .
Much of the work involved in aeronautical engineering is cutting edge. Therefore, it is essential for aeronautical engineers to continuously develop themselves personally and professionally. The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) provides conferences, training courses and specialist groups to help with continuing professional development (CPD) within the sector.
Typical employers include:
There is also a growing market for maintenance, repair and overhaul of military and commercial aircraft.
Many engineers choose to undertake sub-contract work, giving them the opportunity to experience work in different companies and countries.
The ADS Group provides details of companies and their locations. There are a number of recruitment agencies dedicated to the engineering/aerospace industry.
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