Aerospace Engineers vs. Airfield Operations Specialists: Who Earns More?
Aerospace Engineers out-earn Airfield Operations Specialists by $78K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Aerospace Engineers land at $134,960 and Airfield Operations Specialists at $56,850. The education gap is real: aerospace engineer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while airfield operations specialist programs require no formal educational credential. Top-paying state for Aerospace Engineers is Minnesota ($159,060); for Airfield Operations Specialists it's Kentucky ($123,290).
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 Airfield Operations Specialists?
Aerospace Engineers earn more nationally. The median is $134,960 for Aerospace Engineers versus $56,850 for Airfield Operations Specialists, a difference of $78K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Aerospace Engineers or Airfield Operations Specialists?
Aerospace Engineers has the better 10-year outlook at 6.1% projected growth, compared to 4.2% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Aerospace Engineers or Airfield Operations Specialists?
Aerospace Engineers typically requires bachelor's degree. Airfield Operations Specialists requires no formal educational credential. 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. Airfield Operations Specialists pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Aerospace Engineers earn $158,370 vs. $84,050 for Airfield Operations Specialists. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.