Aerospace Engineer Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

Creating a truly persuasive aerospace engineer resume is essential for landing the job of your dreams. From students and interns to experienced professionals, everybody needs a little help sometimes. Allow us to guide you on how to boost your job application with our resume examples, templates, and tips.

Crafting a compelling aerospace engineer resume doesn't have to be rocket science! Certainly not with our easy-to-follow guide, which brings you all the best tips, examples, and templates to help your resume shine. So, dive right in and make yourself a resume to remember.

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Keep reading to learn how to:

• Navigate valuable aerospace engineer resume examples
• Choose the correct resume format for the position
• Write a compelling and eye-catching resume summary or objective
• Include a variety of key aerospace engineering skills
• Describe your past work experience using concise bullet points
• Include powerful action verbs in your resume
• List aerospace engineering educational credentials accurately
• Add extra sections to make your resume stand out
• Avoid common mistakes in an aerospace engineer resume
• Pair your resume with a relevant cover letter
• Learn about the average salary and job outlook for aerospace engineers
• Access top resources for job-seeking aerospace engineers

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

Aerodynamics engineer resume example

Why does this resume example work?

• Quantifiable details: The resume excels in presenting quantifiable achievements. For instance, stating that engineered solutions resulted in a "15% reduction in drag and increased fuel efficiency" and a "20% optimization in lift-to-drag ratios" effectively demonstrates the candidate’s impact on projects and their contribution to measurable improvements. Quantifiable details like these make a compelling case for their capability and success in their roles.
• Relevant work experience: The resume showcases substantial experience in the field, detailing specific roles and contributions at notable companies. This demonstrates the candidate’s progression and depth of expertise in aerodynamics engineering. Mentioning collaborative efforts and leadership, such as leading a team to develop advanced airfoil designs, highlights their ability to work well within diverse team environments and lead projects

What could be improved?

• Avoiding the use of personal pronouns: In the profile section, the candidate uses the pronoun "I" ("I am confident in delivering exceptional results and exceeding expectations"). For a professional resume, it is better to avoid first-person pronouns. A more effective profile could be: "Experienced Aerodynamics Engineer with strong analytical skills and a passion for problem-solving, confident in delivering exceptional results and exceeding expectations."
• Prioritizing work experience over education: Despite being an experienced engineer, the resume lists education first. For professionals with significant work history, it's generally more effective to prioritize work experience over education. This offers a practical view of recent and relevant work that directly supports their expertise. The revised order should present the work experience section first, followed by education, to maintain focus on career achievements and industry impact.

Assistant aerospace engineer resume example

Why does this resume example work?

• Educational background: The candidate’s educational background is strong, with a B.Sc in Aerospace Engineering from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Courses like Aircraft Performance & Design, Air Traffic Control & Safety, and Aerodynamics provide a clear picture of the candidate's technical foundation and expertise, aligning well with job requirements.
• Detailed internship experience: The internship experience section is well-detailed, showcasing the candidate’s hands-on involvement in various aspects of airport operations and aircraft maintenance. Specific tasks highlight practical experience and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the aerospace field.

What could be improved?

• No professional profile: The resume does not include a professional profile, also known as a resume summary, which is a missed opportunity to provide a summary of the candidate's qualifications, career objectives, and what they bring to the role. Adding a concise profile can offer a strong introduction, making the candidate stand out more effectively to potential employers.
• Lack of quantifiable details: The resume lacks quantifiable details, which are critical for demonstrating the candidate's impact and achievements. For instance, instead of stating "Conducting walk-around safety inspections for A320 family aircraft," it would be more impactful to say, "Conducted walk-around safety inspections for A320 family aircraft, identifying and resolving an average of 10 issues per month."

FPGA engineer resume example

Why does this resume example work?

• Strong profile section: The profile section is dynamic and succinct, effectively summarizing the candidate’s expertise in FPGA engineering and fluency in multiple programming languages. Phrases like "extensive expertise in VHDL, Xilinx Vivado, ModelSim, and Python" and "eagerly pursuing an invigorating opportunity" make a strong case for the candidate’s skills and enthusiasm for the role.
• Relevant certifications: Including certifications, such as the "Xilinx Certified Design Professional," adds an extra layer of credibility and expertise to the resume. Certifications demonstrate the candidate’s commitment to professional development and proficiency in specialized skills that are highly relevant to potential employers.

What could be improved?

• Quantifiable achievements in work experience: While the work experience section is detailed, it lacks quantifiable achievements that demonstrate the impact of the candidate’s contributions. For instance, instead of saying "resulting in improved system performance and reduced power consumption," it would be more impactful to include specific metrics, such as "improved system performance by 15% and reduced power consumption by 10%."
• Lack of soft skills: The resume focuses heavily on technical skills but lacks mention of soft skills, which are also important for an FPGA engineer. Including skills such as "team collaboration," "problem-solving," and "effective communication" would provide a more well-rounded view of the candidate’s abilities and how they work within a team or project environment.

1. Choose the correct resume format for your aerospace engineer resume

The first big decision to make before you even start writing your aerospace engineering resume is what type of resume format will be best.

Generally, to earn this position you will need a format that focuses on work experience, known as the reverse-chronological resume. This format heavily emphasizes formal work experience, listing your most recent job first and working backward from there.

However, if you lack formal work experience in the field of aerospace engineering, you may need to consider one of the following alternative formats:

• Functional Resumes:Functional resumes do not focus on work experience — instead, they emphasize education, skills, and unpaid experience. This format works well for current students or recent graduates with an extensive educational history but limited professional work history.
• Hybrid Resumes: Hybrid resumes do not focus on any section in particular, but rather spread the focus of the document out between all sections. This format is well-suited for engineers who are changing career paths or disciplines, or applicants who are returning from a gap in their career.

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2. Write a compelling and eye-catching resume summary or objective

A resume summary is a short introductory statement that showcases your best professional attributes and accomplishments.

By including a summary at the top of your resume, you can better stand out from the competition and make your resume memorable to employers.

As your write your summary, it is important to consider what the most impressive details of your career are and include them in this statement.

To illustrate how to write an effective summary, below is a weak example followed by a correction and explanation:

Bad aerospace engineer resume summary example

Just graduated Aerospace Engineer with some experience as an intern at Boeing. Knows about systems design and testing, and can use CAD modeling software. Won an award in college for an engineering competition.

Why does it fall flat? This example is generic and lacks any specific details. It uses vague language like "some experience" and "knows about," which doesn't convey proficiency or engagement. It also omits important details about the competition and the scope of work during the internship.

Good aerospace engineer resume summary

Recent Graduate with a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering. Over 1 year of experience working as an intern at Boeing, which included assisting with a major study into designing more sustainable jet engines. Awarded First Place in a university Innovation in Undergraduate Engineering competition for designing an aircraft prototype made entirely from recycled materials.

Why is this correct? In this corrected example, the applicant includes the same base information but with a lot more detail, context, and specificity. By doing so, the employer reading this summary gains a better overview of the applicant’s experience, specializations, and passions within the field.

Now let’s pivot to the resume objective, which differs slightly from a resume summary. A resume objective states your career goals and what you aim to achieve in the role you’re applying for. Use it if you’re entering the job market for the first time, transitioning to a new career, or targeting a specific position.

Bad resume objective example

To obtain a job that allows me to grow and advance in the company.

Why is it so bad? This objective is generic and doesn’t provide any value to the employer. It focuses more on what you want rather than what you can offer.

Good resume objective example

Motivated entry-level software engineer seeking a position at ABC Tech to leverage skills in Python and Java, with a focus on developing innovative solutions and supporting team projects.

Why does it hit the mark? This objective is specific and highlights what the applicant brings to the table. It shows a clear goal aligned with the company's potential needs.

Remember, whether you choose a resume summary or objective depends on your career stage and goals. A well-crafted introduction to your resume can make all the difference. Aim for specificity, context, and alignment with the job you’re targeting.

3. Include a variety of key aerospace engineering skills

Including a skills section on your aerospace engineer resume is crucial, as it gives you the opportunity to include abilities that your work experience section or resume summary may have overlooked.

When selecting which aerospace engineering skills to include in your resume, it is important to choose a mix of both technical and interpersonal skills. Technical skills are the more complex, learned abilities gained through education and training, while interpersonal skills deal with your emotional intelligence and ability to understand the people and world around you.

Keeping this in mind, here are 10 examples of both technical and interpersonal skills for aerospace engineers:

The best aerospace engineer hard skills to put on your resume

• Designing prototypes
• Production & manufacturing methods
• Knowledge of various aircraft
• Repair procedures
• Report writing & formal documentation
• Aircraft assembly
• Engineering software (cad, 2d & 3d modeling, etc.)
• Error investigations (malfunctions, aircraft crashes, etc.)
• Data collection & analysis
• Prototype & product testing

Effective interpersonal skills for your aerospace engineer CV

• Leadership
• Collaboration
• Innovation
• Time management
• Attention to detail
• Clear communication
• Creativity
• Problem-solving
• Negotiation
• Stress management

But what if you're coming from a different background? If you're transitioning into aerospace engineering from a different field, focusing on transferable skills is essential. Transferable skills are abilities that can be applied across various jobs and industries. Here's what you can do:

• Identify relevant skills: Look for skills from your previous experiences that are relevant to aerospace engineering. Examples might include project management, data analysis, or technical writing.
• Showcase adaptability: Demonstrate your ability to learn new technologies and concepts quickly. Highlight any certifications, courses, or training you've undertaken to bridge the gap in your expertise.
• Tailor your language: Use industry-specific terminology to describe your transferable skills, making it easier for employers to see the connection between your past experiences and their needs.

Whether you’re an experienced professional or transitioning from a different field, a well-rounded resume that highlights both technical and interpersonal skills is key to standing out. Focus on specificity, context, and relevance to make a lasting impression.

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4. Describe your aerospace engineer work experience using concise bullet points

The work experience section of your resume is where you will have the best opportunity to provide in-depth descriptions of your past work experiences. Although it is important to provide adequate detail, you should also aim to keep these descriptions short and sweet.

To do this, use bullet points and one-sentence statements to structure your work experience descriptions. This will help to keep them concise and legible for employers, who will likely skim over the section rather than reading it word-for-word.

Let's take a look at two contrasting examples:

Bad aerospace engineer work experience entry

Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, MD
Aerospace Engineer
April 2016 to May 2020

• Worked on designs and compliance.
• Designed many aircraft prototypes.
• Changed aircraft repair processes.

Why does it fall short? This example is weak because it's too vague, lacks specific metrics, and fails to communicate the extent of the candidate’s contributions and impact.

Here's an example of a work experience entry from an aerospace engineering resume

Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, MD
Aerospace Engineer
April 2016 to May 2020

• Evaluated all designs for legal compliance and adherence to company safety standards.
• Created 20+ aircraft prototypes including designs for missiles, military aircraft, and satellites.
• Implemented a new aircraft repair process that decreased downtime for commercial aircraft by 15%.

Why does it work? This example is strong because it uses specific metrics and details, clearly showcasing the candidate’s achievements and responsibilities.

When describing your aerospace engineer work experience, use concise bullet points to keep the information clear and impactful. Focus on specific achievements, metrics, and details to make your experience stand out. Avoid vague language to ensure that employers get a concrete understanding of your capabilities.

5. Properly use action words in your aerospace engineer resume

Using action words in your aerospace engineer resume is essential for making a strong impression on recruiters and potential employers. These words, often referred to as "power verbs," enhance your resume by highlighting your achievements and conveying a sense of proactive engagement in your professional history.

So why are they so important?

• Capture attention: Action words grip the reader’s attention right from the start, making your resume stand out.
• Showcase achievements: They clearly demonstrate your accomplishments and the impact you've had in your previous roles.
• Promote clarity: Action words make your resume more concise and easier to read, improving its overall clarity and effectiveness.
• Tailor for ATS: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Using strong action words can help your resume pass through these systems by matching job descriptions more effectively.

Powerful action words for an aerospace engineer resume

• Designed
• Developed
• Engineered
• Analyzed
• Implemented
• Optimized
• Tested
• Managed
• Resolved
• Collaborated

By thoughtfully integrating these action words into your aerospace engineer resume, you'll not only capture the attention of hiring managers but also effectively demonstrate your qualifications and achievements.

6. List aerospace engineering educational credentials accurately

To become an entry-level aerospace engineer, you will need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. However, to earn a higher-level (and higher-paying) position you will likely need a master’s degree.

No matter what educational credentials you have, always list your highest and most recent degree first, followed by the others in reverse-chronological order. Additionally, make sure to include the formal name of the degree, the university you attended, and your date of graduation.

Example of a well-crafted education section

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
M.S. in Aerospace Engineering

• Graduated: 2019, Magna Cum Laude

Duke University, Durham, NC
B.S. in Aerospace Engineering

• Graduated: 2016, Summa Cum Laude

And what if your educational background is in a different field? Well, then it's important to highlightit projects, coursework, and experiences that are relevant to aerospace engineering. This approach can help bridge the gap between your education and the job requirements.

Example of an education section with unrelated degree

University of California, Berkeley, CA
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

• Graduated: 2015, Cum Laude
• Relevant Coursework: Fluid Dynamics, Thermodynamics, System Design
• Projects: Designed and optimized a small-scale UAV for senior project
• Certifications: Certified in CAD and 3D Modeling Software

Accurately listing your educational credentials, whether directly related to aerospace engineering or not, along with relevant projects and coursework, can effectively demonstrate your qualifications for a position in the field. Tailor your resume to highlight how your background aligns with the requirements of the job to make a strong impression on potential employers.

7. Choose relevant extra sections for an aerospace engineer resume

When crafting your aerospace engineer resume, selecting appropriate extra sections can help you stand out to potential employers. These sections provide additional insights into your skills, experiences, and interests, showcasing a well-rounded candidate beyond just the technical qualifications.

The key to selecting relevant extra sections is to choose those that align with your career goals and the expectations of aerospace industry employers. These sections can include Volunteering, Certifications, Publications, Awards, and more. The goal is to provide evidence of your diverse skill set, commitment to the field, and your proactive attitude toward professional development.

Example of how to list relevant extra section in your resume

Volunteering Activities

• AIAA Student Chapter, Volunteer Coordinator
  • Organized workshops and guest lectures, facilitating knowledge-sharing among students and professionals in the aerospace field.

  Certifications

  • Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA)
    • Demonstrated proficiency in 3D CAD modeling, crucial for designing and testing aerospace components.

    Publications

    • "Advancements in Hypersonic Flight", Journal of Aerospace Engineering, 2019
      • Co-authored a paper detailing innovative techniques in improving the efficiency of hypersonic vehicles.

      Selecting relevant extra sections for your aerospace engineer resume involves highlighting areas that reflect your expertise, contributions, and commitment to the field. Tailor these sections to showcase the aspects of your background that align most closely with the job requirements and the values of the aerospace industry.

      8. Avoid common mistakes on an aerospace engineer resume

      Creating a standout aerospace engineer resume requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of what employers are looking for. However, even the most qualified candidates can make mistakes that may hinder their chances of landing a job. Here are some common resume mistakes and how to avoid them:

      • Lack of specificity: Using vague statements can make it hard for hiring managers to grasp your skills and contributions. Be specific about your achievements and responsibilities. Use quantifiable metrics to show the impact of your work. For example, instead of "Worked on various aircraft projects," say "Led a team to design and test a new prototype UAV, resulting in a 20% increase in flight efficiency."
      • Ignoring keywords: Failing to include relevant keywords can prevent your resume from passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Review the job description and incorporate relevant keywords throughout your resume. This can include technical skills, software proficiencies, and industry-standard terminologies. If the job description emphasizes CAD software, make sure terms like "CAD," "3D modeling," and specific software names are included.
      • Overloading with technical jargon: Overloading your resume with too much technical jargon can be overwhelming. Balance technical details with straightforward language that highlights both your technical and interpersonal skills. For instance, say "Streamlined the design process by integrating advanced CAD tools, reducing project timelines by 15%," rather than using complex terminology.
      • Poor formatting: A well-structured resume is easier to read and can leave a stronger impression. Common formatting mistakes include inconsistent fonts, lack of clear headings, and cluttered layouts. Use a clean, professional format with consistent headings and bullet points. Make sure everything is aligned and spaced properly to create a polished look.
      • Failing to tailor your resume: Sending a generic resume to multiple job applications is a critical mistake. Tailor your resume for each position by emphasizing the most relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that match the job description. Highlight specific projects or roles that show your suitability for the position.
      • Including irrelevant information: Including too much irrelevant information can dilute the effectiveness of your resume. Focus on experiences, skills, and qualifications that are directly related to aerospace engineering. For example, while your summer job at a coffee shop may have taught you customer service skills, it’s not as relevant as your engineering internship.
      • Typos and grammatical errors: Typos and grammatical errors can create a negative impression. Carefully proofread your resume multiple times and consider using tools like spell check or grammar check. You could also have a friend or mentor review it for you.

      All in all, avoiding common mistakes can transform your aerospace engineer resume from good to outstanding. Presenting your skills and experiences clearly and precisely will help you stand out as a well-rounded and highly qualified candidate.

      9. The importance of a cover letter and when to include it

      When applying for an aerospace engineering position, your cover letter plays a vital role, complementing your resume and providing additional context to your application. Here's why a well-crafted aerospace engineer cover letter is essential and how it differs from your resume.

      A resume provides a structured overview of your work history, skills, and educational background. It is typically concise, focusing on hard facts and achievements. In contrast, a cover letter allows you to articulate your passion for the field, explain why you’re interested in the position, and provide a narrative that ties your experiences together. It offers a space to highlight particular accomplishments and explain any gaps or transitions in your career.

      When to include a cover letter? A simple answer would be "Always", unless the job posting explicitly states otherwise. A well-written cover letter can:

      • Showcase your motivation: Explain why you’re particularly interested in this position and how it aligns with your career goals.
      • Highlight your fit: Address the specific qualifications listed in the job description and demonstrate how your experience makes you the ideal candidate.
      • Personalize your application: A cover letter lets you introduce yourself personally, creating a connection with the hiring manager and humanizing your application.

      Consistency in design between your resume and cover letter is crucial for a cohesive application:

      • Header: Use the same header for both documents, including your name, contact information, and LinkedIn profile.
      • Font and style: Stick to the same font type and size for both documents to ensure readability and cohesion.
      • Color scheme: If your resume has a specific color scheme, mirror this in your cover letter to maintain a cohesive look.

      Remember, a relevant cover letter can significantly enhance your aerospace engineer application, providing a platform to express your enthusiasm and suitability for the role. Always include one unless instructed otherwise and maintain a consistent design with your resume to present a professional and cohesive application.

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      10. Average salary and outlook for aerospace engineers

      The aerospace engineering field offers lucrative opportunities for professionals with the right skills and experience. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average yearly salary for aerospace engineers was $130,720 as of May 2023. This impressive figure underscores the value and demand for expertise in this highly specialized area.

      And the future looks promising too! Employment in this field is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by advancements in technology and increased demand for innovative aerospace solutions, whether for commercial, defense, or space exploration purposes.

      Moreover, the BLS projects about 3,800 openings for aerospace engineers each year, on average, over the next decade. These openings will stem from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire, in addition to growth-driven opportunities.

      With competitive salaries and a positive job outlook, aerospace engineering remains an attractive and rewarding career choice. The data highlights the sustained demand for skilled aerospace engineers, making it a promising field for both current and aspiring professionals.

      

      11. Top resources for job-seeking aerospace engineers

      Now that you know how to make your resume, let's put the theory to practice! Of course, before you get started on your resume, you need to know what job posting to apply for. If you don't know where to start looking, these resources may be of help:

      • Industry-specific job boards: Explore platforms like Aeroindustryjobs, Space Careers, or Aerocontact for job listings, networking opportunities, and industry news tailored to aerospace engineers.
      • Professional associations: Join associations like the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), or the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) for access to the latest publications, networking events, and professional development resources.
      • Aerospace companies' career pages: Check the career pages of major aerospace companies such as Boeing, Airbus, and SpaceX for job openings, internships, and graduate programs.
      • Online learning platforms: Enroll in courses such as FEA Certification or CAD Certification to enhance your skills. Feel free to browse through Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning for more courses.
      • Job fairs and career events: Attend industry job fairs and career expos like UAA’s Virtual Aviation Career Fair, Aerospace Testing Expo, or AIAA SciTech Forum to meet recruiters, learn about job opportunities, and make connections with industry professionals.

      Once you've found a job posting that speaks to you, read it carefully. Identify the key requirements and align them with your own skills and experiences. It's only then that you can put together a truly impactful and professional resume!

      Aerospace Engineer Resume FAQ

      How can I quantify my achievements on my aerospace engineer resume?

      Quantifying achievements involves adding specific numbers, percentages, or metrics to your accomplishments to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, you could quantify the number of aircraft designs you contributed to, the percentage increase in efficiency achieved through a project, or the cost savings realized from implementing a new engineering solution.

      How can I effectively use keywords in my aerospace engineer resume?

      Use keywords such as specific technical skills, industry terminology, and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Incorporating these keywords strategically can help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS). Always spell your keywords exactly as they appear in the job posting.

      What are some common mistakes to avoid when crafting an aerospace engineer resume?

      The most common mistakes include using generic or vague language, failing to tailor the resume to the job description, including irrelevant information, and neglecting to proofread for errors in spelling and grammar.

      Should I include references on my aerospace engineer resume?

      It's generally not necessary to include references on your resume. Instead, prepare a separate document with a list of professional references, which you can provide upon request or during your job interview.

      Should I include a portfolio or samples of my work with my aerospace engineer resume?

      Yes, including a portfolio or samples of your work can enhance your aerospace engineer resume, especially if you have tangible examples of projects, designs, or research you've completed. Consider creating an online portfolio website or including links to relevant projects, presentations, or publications to showcase your skills and accomplishments in greater detail.