Aerospace Engineers vs. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians: Who Earns More?
Aerospace Engineers out-earn Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians by $55K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Aerospace Engineers land at $134,960 and Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians at $79,870. The education gap is real: aerospace engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while aircraft mechanics and service technician programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Aerospace Engineers is Minnesota ($159,060); for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians it's New Jersey ($105,370).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Aerospace Engineers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Aerospace Engineers or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
Aerospace Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $134,960 for Aerospace Engineers versus $79,870 for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians, a difference of $55K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Aerospace Engineers or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
Aerospace Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 6.1% projected growth, compared to 4% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Aerospace Engineers or Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians?
Aerospace Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Aerospace Engineers get paid the most?
Minnesota is the top-paying state for Aerospace Engineers at $159,060/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Aerospace Engineers vs. Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Aerospace Engineers earn $158,370 vs. $98,980 for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.