How much does an Aerospace Engineer make?

The average salary for an Aerospace Engineer is $116,276 per year in United States. Salaries estimates are based on 2540 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by an Aerospace Engineer employees in United States.

The highest salary for an Aerospace Engineer in United States is $154,139 per year.

The lowest salary for an Aerospace Engineer in United States is $88,512 per year.

If you are thinking of becoming an Aerospace Engineer or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and salary trajectory of an Aerospace Engineer.

The expected salary for an Aerospace Engineer is well above average, and there is not much variance in pay among various specializations. It is common for aerospace engineers to advance to higher level, higher paying positions such as technical specialists, supervisors for a team of engineers, or in some cases product managers.  In order to be considered for these positions, one must obtain a Professional Engineering License (PE license).

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Glassdoor data says that approximately 76% of aerospace engineers are satisfied with their earnings. Experience in the field and an additional pay of $20,719.83 in potential bonuses and profit sharing may qualify the annual pay as an aerospace engineer as good.

How much an aerospace engineer makes a year varies significantly based on experience. The total pay ranges from $69,255.74 to $197,409.32. Engineers can see an average pay of $116,265.86 after building experience in the role. They can increase their annual salary by progressing in their careers to senior and lead roles. Studying for a master's degree may be necessary to advance in your career path.

In order to earn more money in your aerospace engineer career, it's necessary to further your education. A master's degree in aerospace engineering can help you achieve a higher salary and advance your career. Specialist degrees, such as one in aeronautical engineering, can open up even more opportunities for you in the field. With further education, you can reach the top of your career and earn a high salary compared to your peers. Gaining experience as an aerospace engineer can boost your annual salary, too. Once you've earned some field experience and credibility, consider reaching for a director of aerospace engineering position.

If you want to negotiate a higher salary, it's important to have a strong understanding of your worth compared to others in aerospace engineer jobs. Research salaries for comparable positions in your area, and make sure you're aware of the average salary for your experience. Only start negotiations once an offer has been received. Be prepared to walk away from the offer if you feel like you're not being valued properly. It's also important to be aware of the company's budget and what they're able to realistically offer you. If a company's offer doesn't meet your expectations, they may make up for it with yearly bonuses or a signing bonus.

About 76.14% of Aerospace Engineer professionals feel satisfied with their salary, according to anonymous Glassdoor ratings. An additional $20,720 in potential pay per year, among other factors, can qualify the annual pay of an Aerospace Engineer in United States as a good salary.

Aerospace Engineer professionals in United States have a wide total pay range, between $69,256 and $197,409 depending on experience, with an estimated total pay of $116,266 following the average career path of an Aerospace Engineer.