How to become an aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technician

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.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians do

• Record and interpret test data on parts, assemblies, and mechanisms.
• Fabricate and install parts and systems to be tested in test equipment, using hand tools, power tools, and test instruments.
• Test aircraft systems under simulated operational conditions, performing systems readiness tests and pre- and post-operational checkouts, to establish design or fabrication parameters.
• Adjust, repair, or replace faulty components of test setups and equipment.
• 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.

Skills that matter most

• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Writing
• Science
• Monitoring
• Mathematics

Is aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technician a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 63% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Washington $125,160
• Alaska $105,780
• Nevada $102,980
• California $99,000
• Colorado $98,990

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.