Engineering

To Become an Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineer (Aircraft Structures, Engines, Avionics) in Ontario: Salary, Training, and Career Outlook

by Occupations.ca Team
11 min read

Have you ever looked up at a jet streaking across the Ontario sky and wondered who designed its wings, engines, and electronic systems? If you enjoy math, science, and solving complex problems, you can become an Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineer in Ontario and help build the next generation of aircraft, engines, and avionics.

Job Description

Aerospace (aeronautical) engineers in Ontario design, analyze, test, certify, and Support vehicles and systems that fly within the atmosphere—aircraft, helicopters, drones—as well as related structures, engines, and avionics. You will work on high‑performance materials, propulsion systems, flight Controls, and the software that keeps aircraft safe and efficient. Many Ontario engineers also contribute to the space sector (satellites, robotics, spacecraft subsystems) through companies that operate here.

You can focus in areas such as:

  • Aircraft structures (metal and composite airframes, wings, fuselages)
  • Engines/propulsion (turbofan, turboprop, turbine components, performance)
  • Avionics and systems (navigation, Communications, flight control, power)
  • Manufacturing and certification (tooling, quality, airworthiness, Compliance)
  • Space systems (robotics, spacecraft structures and mechanisms)

Typical Ontario employers and partners include manufacturers, suppliers, and integrators such as Bombardier, Magellan Aerospace, Safran Landing Systems, Collins Aerospace, Diamond Aircraft, KF Aerospace, L3Harris WESCAM, Airbus Helicopters Canada, and space companies like MDA. Many roles require working with federal regulations, including the Controlled Goods Program and Transport Canada airworthiness rules.

Useful employer and industry links:

Daily work activities

In your day‑to‑day work, you will typically:

  • Meet with cross‑functional teams (design, manufacturing, quality, flight test) to define requirements.
  • Use CAD and analysis tools to design parts and systems, then validate with FEA and CFD.
  • Write test plans, conduct lab or flight tests, and analyze results for compliance.
  • Prepare certification and airworthiness documentation for Transport Canada and other authorities.
  • Support production on the factory floor, solve non‑conformances, and approve repairs as a liaison engineer.
  • Integrate avionics (power, sensors, buses, wiring), run system Safety and reliability assessments.
  • Track configuration, issues, and schedule in PLM and Project Management tools.
  • Communicate progress and risks to engineering leads and program managers.

Main tasks

  • Develop and analyze aircraft structures (metal/composites), including stress analysis and fatigue/damage tolerance.
  • Design and verify propulsion components and performance (compressors, turbines, inlets, exhaust).
  • Architect and integrate avionics systems (ARINC 429, CAN, MIL‑STD‑1553; power distribution; EMI/EMC).
  • Perform systems engineering (requirements, interface control, verification/validation) to ARP4754A/ARP4761.
  • Conduct thermal/fluids analysis, aerodynamic performance, and stability/controls studies.
  • Lead testing: lab benches, environmental testing to DO‑160, and ground/flight tests with instrumentation.
  • Prepare certification deliverables and work with Transport Canada, DER/DARs, and quality to meet standards.
  • Support manufacturing: tooling, process development, GD&T, AS9100 quality, supplier technical oversight.
  • Troubleshoot in‑service issues and manage engineering changes through configuration control.
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Required Education

You can reach aerospace engineering roles in Ontario through multiple paths. Your choice depends on whether you want to be a licensed professional engineer, a technologist, or a specialist in avionics/manufacturing.

Diplomas and degrees

  • Certificate (1 year)

    • Post‑graduate or specialty certificates in aerospace manufacturing or management.
    • Good for upskilling, especially if you already hold a diploma or degree.

  • College Diploma or Advanced Diploma (2–3 years)

    • Aviation technician/technology programs in avionics Maintenance, aircraft maintenance, aerospace manufacturing.
    • Prepares you for technologist roles (design support, testing, manufacturing, maintenance). Not a direct path to P.Eng., but you can bridge to a degree later.

  • Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)

    • A CEAB‑accredited Bachelor of Engineering is the standard if you want the P.Eng. licence. Common majors: Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (aerospace focus), Electrical/Computer Engineering (avionics), Software Engineering (safety‑critical software).

  • Graduate studies (MEng/MASc/PhD)

    • Advantageous for R&D, advanced analysis, or space systems. Often required for specialist roles.

Check accredited programs:

Length of studies

  • College diploma: typically 2–3 years (co‑op may add 4–12 months).
  • Bachelor’s degree: typically 4 years (co‑op or PEY may add 12–20 months).
  • Graduate degrees: 1–2 years (course‑based MEng) or 2+ years (research MASc/PhD).

Where to study? (Ontario)

Universities (engineering degrees):

Colleges (technician/technology, avionics, manufacturing):

Bridging and pathways:

Licensing (Professional Engineers Ontario – PEO):

Salary and Working Conditions

Salaries vary by specialization, company, and your experience. Ontario’s aerospace engineers typically earn a strong income compared to many fields.

  • Entry‑level (new graduate, co‑op experience helps): about $65,000–$85,000 per year.
  • Intermediate (4–8 years, P.Eng. often required): about $90,000–$130,000.
  • Senior/technical specialist/lead roles: $130,000–$160,000+; some niche roles exceed this, especially in management or highly specialized certification/design Leadership.
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For detailed, up‑to‑date Ontario wages and outlook, consult the Government of Canada Job Bank:

Working conditions:

  • Typical full‑time schedule with peaks leading to overtime near test campaigns or certification milestones.
  • Work is split between office/design labs and production floors/hangars/test sites. Field Travel to suppliers or airports is common.
  • Expect strict safety, quality (AS9100), and regulatory processes. Documentation and configuration control are critical.
  • Many employers require Controlled Goods Program screening (federal Security requirement for certain parts/tech): https://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/pmc-cgp/index-eng.html
  • Roles tied to regulated products may involve interaction with Transport Canada Civil Aviation and potentially U.S. FAA/EASA rules.

Job outlook in Ontario:

  • Ontario’s aerospace sector is anchored in the GTA, Ottawa, Hamilton/London, and Northern Ontario (maintenance, manufacturing). Demand is influenced by global aircraft cycles, defense and space spending, and Supply Chain modernization.
  • Overall prospects are generally good to moderate, with stronger opportunities for candidates who have co‑op experience, systems/software/avionics skills, and knowledge of certification and quality systems. See Job Bank Outlook for Ontario: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/outlook-occupation/2146/ca-on
  • Industry network: Ontario Aerospace Council (events, employer directory): https://www.ontaerospace.com/

Key Skills

Soft skills

  • Communication: explain complex ideas clearly to non‑engineers and write precise technical documents.
  • Teamwork: collaborate across design, test, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality.
  • Problem‑solving: break down ambiguous issues with data and engineering judgment.
  • Attention to detail: aviation safety requires rigorous checks and documentation.
  • Adaptability: quickly learn new tools, standards, and processes as programs evolve.
  • Project management: scope, schedule, risk, and stakeholder management.
  • Ethics and responsibility: public safety and regulatory compliance come first.

Hard skills

  • CAD and PLM: CATIA, Siemens NX, SolidWorks; Windchill/Teamcenter.
  • FEA/CFD: ANSYS, NASTRAN/PATRAN, Abaqus; Fluent, STAR‑CCM+, OpenFOAM.
  • Programming and data: MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++, scripting for analysis/test Automation.
  • Systems engineering: requirements, interface control, V&V; ARP4754A/ARP4761; MBSE (SysML).
  • Avionics: DO‑178C (software), DO‑254 (complex hardware), DO‑160 (environmental); buses (ARINC 429, CAN, MIL‑STD‑1553), power and EMI/EMC fundamentals.
  • Structures/materials: composites, metals, fatigue/damage tolerance, fracture mechanics; GD&T and tolerancing.
  • Propulsion/thermo‑fluids: gas turbine cycles, performance, heat transfer, aerodynamics.
  • Quality and certification: AS9100, configuration management, safety assessments, Transport Canada/FAA/EASA exposure.
  • Testing: instrumentation, DAQ, calibration, test plans, root cause/corrective action (RCCA), FMEA/FTA.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:

  • High‑impact work on products that must be safe, efficient, and innovative.
  • Strong compensation and clear growth paths into technical leadership or management.
  • Co‑op and project opportunities at Ontario universities/colleges give you early industry exposure.
  • Mobility: skills transfer to Automotive, energy, robotics, and space sectors within Ontario.
  • Cutting‑edge technology: composites, advanced simulation, digital twins, autonomous systems.

Disadvantages:

  • Regulation‑heavy environment with intensive documentation and audits.
  • Cyclical industry tied to airline orders, defense budgets, and global supply chains.
  • Security/expertise barriers: Controlled Goods, export controls, and specialized standards can limit mobility between employers without ramp‑up time.
  • Schedule pressure near design freezes, tests, and certification gates.
  • Entry competition for popular roles; co‑op and practical portfolio are essential.

Expert Opinion

If you’re serious about aerospace in Ontario, stack the deck in your favour early:

  • Choose a CEAB‑accredited engineering program if you plan to pursue P.Eng. licensure. Register as an EIT as soon as you graduate and track your experience properly against PEO requirements.
  • Secure co‑op terms or extended internships (e.g., PEY). Many Ontario employers hire new grads from their co‑op pool. Target roles in structures stress, avionics integration, systems engineering, or manufacturing engineering—these are strong gateways.
  • Build a portfolio: join student design teams (SAE Aero Design, rocketry, UAV, Formula, CubeSat). Demonstrate hands‑on design, simulation, test, and documentation. Hiring managers love Concrete evidence that you can deliver.
  • Learn the tools and standards that matter:
    • CAD (CATIA or NX) + GD&T.
    • Analysis: ANSYS/NASTRAN, MATLAB/Simulink, Python.
    • Systems/avionics: exposure to DO‑178C/DO‑254/DO‑160, ARP4754A/ARP4761; even familiarity helps.
    • Quality/configuration (AS9100, PLM) and issue tracking (Jira).
  • Understand the certification landscape. Engineers who can bridge design with compliance and documentation stand out. Later in your career, track toward Design Approval Representative (DAR) responsibilities with Transport Canada: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/aircraft-airworthiness/design-approval-representatives
  • Network where Ontario aerospace employers are: Ontario Aerospace Council events (https://www.ontaerospace.com/) and Canadian Aeronautics and Space Institute (CASI) (https://casi.ca/). Present a poster or paper if you can.
  • If you’re starting at the college level, aim for high marks and transfer to a degree via ONTransfer (https://www.ontransfer.ca/) or curated bridging. If you’re internationally trained, the TMU Internationally Trained Engineers program (https://www.torontomu.ca/internationally-trained-engineers/) and Ontario bridging programs (https://www.ontario.ca/page/bridging-programs) can accelerate your path.
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Finally, think strategically about specialization:

  • Structures: strong math/FEA, composites, fatigue. Roles at OEMs and tier‑1 suppliers.
  • Propulsion: thermodynamics, turbomachinery, performance; fewer roles, deeper specialization.
  • Avionics/systems: fast‑growing area in Ontario, touching software, electronics, certification, and integration—excellent job prospects.
  • Manufacturing/quality: great entry path, with visibility across programs and steady demand.

FAQ

Do I need a P.Eng. licence to work as an Aerospace Engineer in Ontario?

You can hold engineering jobs without a licence if you are supervised by a P.Eng., but you must be licensed by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) to independently practice professional engineering, take legal responsibility for designs, or use the “P.Eng.” title. Most career paths to senior technical authority expect licensure. Start by enrolling in PEO’s EIT program after graduation. PEO: https://www.peo.on.ca/

Can I become an aerospace engineer in Ontario with a mechanical, electrical, or software degree?

Yes. Many Ontario aerospace engineers hold Mechanical degrees (structures/thermo‑fluids) or Electrical/Computer/Software degrees (avionics, embedded, safety‑critical software). What matters is building the right domain knowledge (standards, tools, and methods) through courses, projects, co‑ops, and on‑the‑job Training. Consider graduate studies (e.g., UTIAS, Carleton) to pivot into specialized aerospace topics if needed.

What’s the difference between an Aerospace Engineer and an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) in Ontario?

An Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineer designs, analyzes, tests, and certifies aircraft and systems; licensure is through PEO (P.Eng.). An AME maintains and certifies the airworthiness of aircraft in service; licensing is through Transport Canada and focuses on maintenance categories (M, E, S). AME licensing info: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/aircraft-airworthiness/aircraft-maintenance-engineer-licensing

Will I need security clearance to work in Ontario’s aerospace industry?

Many employers require Controlled Goods Program registration due to defense‑related parts or technical data. Some roles also require additional clearances depending on the contract. You can’t pre‑apply as an individual for CGP; your employer sponsors and screens you. Learn more: https://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/pmc-cgp/index-eng.html

Do I need to be a pilot, or should I get a pilot licence?

You don’t need to be a pilot to be an aerospace engineer. However, basic flight training can help you understand operations and improve your engineering decisions. If you’re interested, see Transport Canada licensing for pilots: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/licensing

How competitive are co‑ops in Ontario, and how can I stand out?

Co‑ops are competitive but achievable if you:

  • Apply early with a targeted resume showing relevant projects (CAD models, FEA, code, test reports).
  • Join student teams (UAV, rocketry, Formula, CubeSat) to gain hands‑on experience.
  • Learn the industry tools (CATIA/NX, ANSYS, MATLAB/Simulink, Python) and highlight them.
  • Network with employers at OAC and CASI events and on campus.
  • Be open to manufacturing/quality/test roles—they often lead to design/certification positions.

By following these steps, you can build a strong aerospace/aeronautical engineering career in Ontario, contribute to aircraft structures, engines, and avionics, and help shape the future of flight and space from right here in the province.

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