Program Manager, Aviation / Aerospace Salary

A program manager in aviation and aerospace is responsible for a preparing proposals and leading projects in aviation and aerospace. They must know the fundamentals of air transport, airport operations, and airline revenue management. Their responsibilities may also include field and management support, grant administration, funding, construction oversight, and building client relationships for aviation and aerospace companies. They work closely with engineers, civic planners, environmental science professionals, and government officials.

Aviation and aerospace program managers most often work full time during regular business hours; however, they may need to work additional hours depending on the needs of the project. They most often work in a business office environment, but may be outside of the office for meetings and to survey grounds for construction projects.

These program managers have a large amount of responsibility within the aviation and aerospace environment. Time management skills are extremely important for them to effectively carry out the demands of this profession. They must be team-oriented, because the large scale of the projects that they work on demands a significant amount of communication and cooperation.

Program managers in aviation and aerospace are typically professional engineers with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related engineering field. They are required to be registered as a professional engineer in their respective state. They are also expected to know aviation policies and safe aviation services to effectively carry out their duties. At this level, a substantial amount of experience is also required, typically at least 10 years. (Copyright 2017 PayScale.com)

Program Manager, Aviation / Aerospace Tasks

• Manage the implementation, coordination and reporting for programs or contracts.
• Track program costs.
• Manage staffing and successful performance of team members.
• Develop timelines for the program.

Surpassing the national average by 35 percent, Aviation Program Managers in Washington receive some of the highest pay in the country. Aviation Program Managers will also find cushy salaries in Cedar Rapids (+21 percent), Hartford (+20 percent), San Diego (+15 percent), and Orlando (+14 percent). Location is a huge contributor to overall pay, with Aviation Program Managers in Wichita earning a whopping 28 percent below the national average. Employers pay around 28 percent less in New York and 12 percent less in Everett, below-median salaries for those in this field.