Aerospace

• Studies of the atmosphere and space
• Improvement of the usefulness, performance, speed, safety and efficiency of combat, aeronautical and space vehicles
• The development and operation of vehicles capable of carrying instruments, equipment, supplies and living organisms through space and throughout the atmosphere

• Defense research that involves surveillance, tracking and other systems allowing users to maintain visual, audio and long-range contact
• Aerospace companies can be defense contractors, commercial companies or both. Many companies provide both defense products (missiles, aircraft, electronics) as well as commercial products such as commercial aircraft or satellites.

SAMPLE JOB TITLES

SAMPLE HIRING ORGANIZATIONS

$74K

Average starting salary

*based on 298 responses from 2020-2024 AU Engineering Graduates on the First Destination Survey

RECRUITING TIMELINE

Depending on the type of employer and the role, recruitment timelines vary. Governmental organizations, large companies, and manufacturers recruit most heavily in the fall for positions starting in the spring or summer. Opportunities still exist beyond the fall but are often more niche opportunities with smaller companies. Additionally, companies will hire throughout the year depending on the needs and demands of their projects or government contracts.

Seek opportunities to connect with employers at fall events such as the fall Engineering Career Fair, as well as at employer table talks, employer-in-residence, Ask Alumni Anything chats and student organization meetings. Search for posted opportunities on Handshake and other sources referenced below.

SCREENING & SECURITY CLEARANCE

Some roles within the Aerospace industry require screening for specific qualifications, particularly those associated with military, space, and government contracts. Following the interview process, candidates are often offered a conditional job offer that is subject to completion of a suitability and security clearance process, designed to examine your life history to measure your loyalty to the United States, strength of character, trustworthiness, honesty, reliability, and soundness of judgment. The security clearance process is lengthy and previously obtained clearances make full-time candidates even more desirable. Be mindful of how your behaviors and online presence and interactions can impact your candidacy for roles within this field.

SAMPLE OPPORTUNITIES

Student Organizations

• Aero and Astro Robotics Club
• American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
• Arnold Air Society
• Design Build Fly
• Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals
• Rocketry Association
• Sigma Gamma Tau National Aerospace Honor Society
• Silver Wings
• Small Satellite Program

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS & INDUSTRY RESOURCES

• Aerospace Industries Association of America (AIA-Aerospace)
• Air Force Association (AFA)
• American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
• General Aviation Manufacturers Association
• Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace

AU Engineering Research

• Advanced Flow Diagnostics Lab
• Immersive, Interactive, & Intelligent Space Dynamics Lab
• Vehicle Systems, Dynamics, and Design Lab