Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Operate, install, adjust, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data.
🎬Career Video
📋Key Responsibilities
- •Test aircraft systems under simulated operational conditions, performing systems readiness tests and pre- and post-operational checkouts, to establish design or fabrication parameters.
- •Identify required data, data acquisition plans, and test parameters, setting up equipment to conform to these specifications.
- •Inspect, diagnose, maintain, and operate test setups and equipment to detect malfunctions.
- •Confer with engineering personnel regarding details and implications of test procedures and results.
- •Operate and calibrate computer systems and devices to comply with test requirements and to perform data acquisition and analysis.
- •Record and interpret test data on parts, assemblies, and mechanisms.
- •Adjust, repair, or replace faulty components of test setups and equipment.
- •Fabricate and install parts and systems to be tested in test equipment, using hand tools, power tools, and test instruments.
💡Inside This Career
The aerospace engineering technologist operates and maintains the sophisticated systems that test, launch, and track air and space vehicles—running simulations, conducting tests, collecting data, and ensuring that complex aerospace systems function properly. A typical week blends hands-on technical work with data analysis and documentation. Perhaps 40% of time goes to testing and operations: running test setups, operating systems, collecting data. Another 30% involves maintenance and calibration—inspecting equipment, performing repairs, ensuring systems meet specifications. The remaining time splits between data analysis, documentation, coordination with engineers, and keeping current with evolving aerospace technology.
People who thrive as aerospace engineering technologists combine hands-on technical aptitude with systematic thinking and the precision that aerospace systems demand. Successful technologists develop expertise in specific systems—test equipment, simulators, data acquisition, tracking systems—while building the troubleshooting skills that complex aerospace systems require. They must maintain exacting standards while working efficiently to meet operational schedules. Those who struggle often cannot handle the precision requirements of aerospace work or find the procedural rigor constraining. Others fail because they cannot maintain focus during repetitive testing and maintenance tasks.
Aerospace engineering technology supports the aerospace industry's testing and operational requirements, with technologists working at test facilities, launch sites, and operational centers where aerospace vehicles are developed and deployed. The field has evolved with aerospace technology, with modern technologists working with increasingly sophisticated systems. Aerospace technologists appear in discussions of flight testing, spacecraft operations, and the technical workforce that supports aerospace development.
Practitioners cite the excitement of working in aerospace and the technical sophistication of the systems they operate as primary rewards. Contributing to aerospace missions provides meaning. The technology is genuinely advanced. The work has real operational importance. The aerospace industry offers stable employment. The technical challenges are engaging. Common frustrations include the procedural constraints that characterize aerospace operations and the limited opportunities for independent decision-making. Many find the extensive documentation requirements tedious. Career progression may plateau without engineering degrees. The field requires maintaining certifications and qualifications. Geographic options are limited to aerospace industry locations.
This career requires technical education in aerospace, electronics, or related fields, often through associate degrees or military training. Strong technical, analytical, and documentation skills are essential. The role suits those fascinated by aerospace who prefer hands-on technical work to engineering analysis. It is poorly suited to those seeking design authority, uncomfortable with procedural constraints, or preferring work outside aerospace industry locations. Compensation is solid, with opportunities at aerospace companies, government facilities, and defense contractors.
📈Career Progression
📚Education & Training
Requirements
- •Entry Education: Post-secondary certificate
- •Experience: One to two years
- •On-the-job Training: One to two years
- !License or certification required
Time & Cost
🤖AI Resilience Assessment
AI Resilience Assessment
Medium Exposure + Human Skills: AI augments this work but human judgment remains essential
How much of this job involves tasks AI can currently perform
Likelihood that AI replaces workers vs. assists them
(BLS 2024-2034)
How much this role relies on distinctly human capabilities
💻Technology Skills
⭐Key Abilities
🏷️Also Known As
🔗Related Careers
Other careers in engineering
🔗Data Sources
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