Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians operate and maintain the computer systems, consoles, simulators, and measurement instruments that track and evaluate aircraft and spacecraft. They work at aerospace facilities, launch sites, testing centers, and manufacturing plants, ensuring equipment functions properly and recording data from tests and operations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Work involves monitoring control consoles during test operations, adjusting instrument settings to specifications, and troubleshooting equipment problems when they arise. Technicians record data from flights or ground tests, review readings for accuracy, and document results. Tasks include routine maintenance checks, installing new instruments or components, and coordinating with engineers to resolve technical issues.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You prefer structured, hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented and comfortable following established protocols while using technical equipment and systems. You work well in organized environments where precision and reliability matter.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Aerospace Engineering Expert · micro1 · Canada, United States · Remote
- Engineering Technician (Aerospace) (QC Inspector) · Federal Aviation Administration · Oklahoma City, Oklahoma · $90547–$140335
- Maintenance Shop Technician · Republic Services · Dixon, Solano County · $71,014–$71,014
- US Tech - Vendor Alliance Senior Manager · PwC · Sacramento, Sacramento County · $218,956–$218,956
- Emergency Department Technician II · KAISER · Roseville, Placer County · $56,302–$56,302
- Customer Service Technician · Agiliti Health · Sacramento, Sacramento County · $39,748–$61,172
- Financial Accounts Technician · Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary for Human Resources and Administration · Leavenworth, Kansas · $46150–$59994
- Pharmacy Technician (Inpatient Oncology) · Veterans Health Administration · Long Beach, California · $80677–$104876
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $121,340 | $125,160 | $125,160 | 1,590 |
| Alaska | $104,240 | $105,780 | $109,390 | 40 |
| Nevada | $63,300 | $102,980 | $122,080 | 50 |
| California | $81,560 | $99,000 | $119,980 | 1,560 |
| Colorado | $97,190 | $98,990 | $131,610 | 660 |
| Maryland | $69,850 | $91,820 | $103,680 | 200 |
| Oregon | $67,440 | $81,100 | $81,100 | 120 |
| Virginia | $73,140 | $81,040 | $96,100 | 270 |
| Massachusetts | $72,890 | $79,420 | $83,930 | 30 |
| Connecticut | $77,740 | $79,410 | $132,640 | 70 |
| Ohio | $66,240 | $79,310 | $86,380 | 900 |
| Florida | $65,290 | $78,560 | $102,380 | 770 |
All 24 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- SpaceTEC Certified Aerospace Technician — SpaceTEC
- Certification in Aerospace Physiology — Aerospace Medical Association
- ISA Certified Control Systems Technician - Level I (CCST) — International Society of Automation
- Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing Professional - Technologist (GDTP) — American Society of Mechanical Engineers International
- GDTP (Y14.5) Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing Professional Certification - 1994 Technologist Level — American Society of Mechanical Engineers International
- GDTP (Y14.5) Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing Professional Certification - 2009 Technologist Level — American Society of Mechanical Engineers International
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-3021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.