Aircraft designer

What does an aircraft structural engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

An aircraft structural engineer is responsible for developing, designing, and improving aircraft components and entire aircraft systems. Tasks include technical calculations, simulations, prototype construction, and testing of materials and structures to ensure safety, efficiency, and performance. Aircraft structural engineers often collaborate in interdisciplinary teams with other engineers, technicians, and production staff. The work mainly takes place in office environments with access to advanced computer-aided design (CAD) tools, and sometimes in laboratories or on production floors during testing and quality control. The profession demands high precision, problem-solving skills, and technical expertise.

Salary development over time

The salary for aircraft structural engineers has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month, which increased to 49 700 SEK in 2023. In the most recent year, 2024, the average salary has risen further to 52 000 SEK per month. This corresponds to a total increase of about 9.5% over the three-year period. The salary increase can largely be explained by high demand for technical expertise in the aerospace industry and the increasing complexity of modern aircraft systems. Market needs for qualified personnel and ongoing technological development have contributed to raising salary levels within the profession, while competition for labor also increases.

Aircraft structural engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 52 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education, <3 years)
• Highest salary: 63,000 SEK/month (male, private employee, research degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 313 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 49 900 SEK (95% of men's 52 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Specific regional salary data are lacking, but variations may occur depending on labor market and company.

Education and qualifications

To work as an aircraft structural engineer, a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar technical field is usually required. Employers often seek a solid theoretical foundation combined with practical experience from the aerospace or automotive industry. In addition to formal education, skills in advanced CAD/CAE tools and understanding of materials science are important.

• Master of Science degree: Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar (5 years)
• Relevant certifications: Examples include CAD, CAE, and project management
• Internship/Trainee: Often part of education or initial employment
• Prerequisites: University eligibility with focus on mathematics and physics
• Tips for choosing: Specialization in aerodynamics or strength of materials can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Aircraft structural engineers are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, opportunities for remote work, and flexible working hours. Some employers also offer bonus programs, paid further education, insurance, and extra vacation days depending on employment agreements and company size.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an aircraft structural engineer is significant, especially among leading aircraft manufacturers and technical consulting firms. Although the demand for Master of Science engineers in mechanical engineering is high nationally, recruiting difficulties arise as many leave the profession or switch to other industries. Challenges include staying updated with technological developments, managing complex projects, and navigating an international work environment where pace is often high. Certification requirements and safety standards also impose additional demands for accuracy and responsibility.

Tips for aspiring aircraft structural engineers

To succeed as an aircraft structural engineer, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with analytical skills and meticulousness. Developing strong knowledge in mathematics and physics during high school provides a solid foundation for further studies. Engagement and teamwork skills are important since many projects are team-based and require coordination with colleagues from different disciplines. An interest in new technology and a willingness to continuously learn facilitate adaptation to the industry’s rapid development. Gaining internships or summer jobs in the aerospace or engineering industry not only provides valuable experience but also contacts. Being communicative and proficient in English is a major advantage, especially in international project environments. Finally, perseverance and problem-solving skills are crucial for handling challenges and finding innovative solutions to complex technical problems.

Key facts about aircraft structural engineers

• Education level: Master of Science, usually 5 years
• Typical work environment: Office, often project-based and international
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Common employment type: Permanent employment in the private sector
• Special skills: CAD/CAE, materials science, aerodynamics

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as chief engineer, project manager, or specialist in areas like aerodynamics, strength of materials, or system integration. For those interested in research and development, a doctoral degree can open doors to leading positions within industry and academia. The Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts that opportunities for employment for Master of Science engineers in mechanical engineering, including aircraft structural engineers, are large and stable over the next five years. Despite a relatively large supply of graduates, recruitment difficulties persist, indicating good future prospects. According to the latest assessment, there were 564 job openings in this occupational group, highlighting the demand for this expertise.

Common questions about aircraft structural engineers

• What does an aircraft structural engineer earn?
  - The average salary for an aircraft structural engineer is 52 000 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for aircraft structural engineers?
  - The salary has increased by approximately 9.5% over the past three years, and the trend remains positive.
• What education is required to become an aircraft structural engineer?
  - A Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering is generally required.
• Are there gender pay differences?
  - Yes, women earn on average 49 900 SEK (95% of men's 52 700 SEK).
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand is high, and the forecast remains unchanged for the next five years according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What tasks does an aircraft structural engineer perform?
  - Tasks include design, simulation, testing, and development of aircraft systems.
• What is the highest and lowest salary within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 63,000 SEK and the lowest 47,800 SEK, depending on education, experience, and sector.