Is Aerospace Engineering mostly contract jobs?

In summary, working for a company on a big contract does not necessarily mean you will be laid off once it is completed. Depending on the size of the company and the nature of the work, employees may move on to different projects within the company or contractors may be hired to cover short term fluctuations in workload. Working for a small company with one major contract may have a higher risk of being laid off when the work is finished.
  • #1
Goopy17
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Do you basically work for a company when they get a big contract and when it is done, do you get laid off? I want to become an aerospace engineer, but I want to have a steady job to support a family. Is it work when there are contracts, and then you are out of work when they are done, or is it you have a steady job with or without contracts?
Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Obviously no employer will keep paying people "for ever" if there is no work for them to do, but if you work for a big company, the people that they want to keep for the long term will move from project to project within the company.

The short term fluctuations in work tend to be covered by contractors rather than hiring and firing permanent employees. It's cheaper to deal with contractors that way, and they don't expect to have long term job security (if they wanted that, they wouldn't be contractors!)

If you work for a small company where one contract is a significant part of the total workload, the risk of being laid off when the work dries up is obviously greater.
 

FAQ: Is Aerospace Engineering mostly contract jobs?

1. What is the job outlook for aerospace engineers in terms of contract work?

The job outlook for aerospace engineers in terms of contract work is quite positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of aerospace engineers is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This indicates that there will be a steady demand for contract work in this field.

2. What are the benefits of working as a contract aerospace engineer?

Working as a contract aerospace engineer can offer a variety of benefits. One of the main advantages is the potential for higher pay. As a contract worker, you have the opportunity to negotiate your own rates and can often earn more than a traditional salaried employee. Additionally, contract work can provide more flexibility in terms of scheduling and the types of projects you work on.

3. Are there any downsides to working as a contract aerospace engineer?

As with any job, there are potential downsides to working as a contract aerospace engineer. One of the main challenges is the lack of job security. Contract work is often project-based, so once a project is completed, you may need to look for your next opportunity. Additionally, contract workers may not receive the same benefits as full-time employees, such as health insurance or paid time off.

4. What skills are necessary to be successful as a contract aerospace engineer?

To be successful as a contract aerospace engineer, you will need a strong foundation in engineering principles and a deep understanding of aerospace systems and technology. You should also possess excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to work independently and manage your time effectively. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with a team are also important for success in this field.

5. Are there opportunities for permanent positions in aerospace engineering?

Yes, there are opportunities for permanent positions in aerospace engineering. While contract work is common in the industry, there are also many companies that hire aerospace engineers for full-time, salaried positions. The availability of permanent positions may vary depending on the current job market and industry demand, but with the projected growth in the field, there should be a steady supply of permanent job opportunities for aerospace engineers.

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