Median pay: $99,100
Top pay: $139,000
10-year job growth: 10%
Total jobs: 50,000
The job:
If you feel the need for speed and want to build things that go faster and higher, this is a profession for you. Aerospace engineers are at the forefront of innovation, applying advanced technologies to make air and space travel faster and more efficient. They also build high-tech equipment like rockets and satellites. Cutbacks at NASA and other government agencies may affect public sector jobs, but demand for aerospace engineers in private industry and abroad is strong. Plus, there's always a need to replace new retirees.
How to switch:
This is one job where you actually need to be a “rocket scientist.” Earn a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or another engineering specialty. Get more information about the field from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics at aiaa.org.
Quality of life ratings:
| Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
| B |
B |
C |
B |
By Donna Rosato and Grace Wong
Subscribe to Money Magazine
