Astronautical Engineer
Kloe Holloway
Description
Astronautical engineers use their technical nous, practical skills and expert scientific knowledge to design, develop, research, test, tweak, adjust and upgrade sophisticated and complex engineering solutions, such as space shuttles, space launch vehicles, satellites, rockets, space capsules and planetary probes.
Astronautical engineers often take on specialist roles, focusing on a specific subcategory of the astronautical engineering remit, such as electrical and electronic engineering, spacecraft design, structural engineering, software engineering for automation and guidance purposes, or propulsion systems.
Others focus their efforts on concepts such as space weather or astrodynamics.
The majority of opportunities are available with manufacturers of spacecraft, space agencies and executive agencies that focus on scientific research and engineering projects.
Alternatively, you could find work with an advanced research and development centre or a higher education institution in a purely research focused role.
Average Salary
Personality Traits
- Rapidly acquire required knowledge.
- Lead others effectively.
- Effectively apply ethical and moral standards.
- Improve unit performance by application of organizational skills.
- Make sound decisions based on critical thinking.
- Communicate effectively.
Skills
- an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering.
- an ability to design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data.
- an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical, health and safety, manufacturability, and sustainability.
- an ability to lead and function on multidisciplinary teams.
- an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems.
Schooling
Bachelor's Degree