Aerospace Engineer Resume Keywords for ATS

ATS systems screening Aerospace Engineer CVs prioritise technical competencies in aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural analysis alongside proficiency in industry-standard CAD and simulation software. Successful candidates demonstrate compliance with aerospace standards (e.g., AS9100, DO-178C) and use precise terminology matching job descriptions, as generic engineering language often fails to pass initial filters.

ATS keywords for a Aerospace Engineer Resume

Use these as a checklist — include the ones that genuinely apply to you, matched to the wording of the job you are targeting.

Core skills

AerodynamicsComputational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)Finite Element Analysis (FEA)Structural AnalysisPropulsion SystemsFlight DynamicsSystems EngineeringStress AnalysisAvionics IntegrationComposite MaterialsThermodynamicsAircraft DesignCertification & Airworthiness

Tools & software

CATIAANSYSMATLABSimulinkSolidWorksNASTRANFEMAPSiemens NXPatranLS-DYNADOORS

Soft skills

Problem SolvingAttention to DetailCross-Functional CollaborationTechnical CommunicationProject ManagementCritical Thinking

Certifications & qualifications

Chartered Engineer (CEng)Incorporated Engineer (IEng)EASA Part-66 LicenceProject Management Professional (PMP)Six Sigma Green Belt

How to get a Aerospace Engineer Resume past the ATS

  • Mirror exact terminology from job adverts: use 'CFD' if the posting says 'CFD', not 'fluid simulation', and include both acronyms and full terms (e.g., 'Finite Element Analysis (FEA)').
  • List aerospace standards explicitly (AS9100, DO-160, MIL-STD-810) as ATS often searches for compliance keywords specific to aviation and defence sectors.
  • Include aircraft types or programmes you've worked on (e.g., 'fixed-wing UAV', 'rotorcraft', 'commercial transport') as recruiters filter by platform experience.
  • Specify engineering phases clearly: 'preliminary design', 'detailed design', 'certification support', 'flight testing' are distinct ATS search terms.
  • Mention regulatory bodies and processes (CAA, EASA, FAA, DO-178C, CS-25) as these trigger sector-specific filters in aerospace recruitment systems.
  • Quantify technical achievements with aerospace metrics: drag reduction percentages, weight savings, cycle time improvements, or certification milestones met.

Before & after: Aerospace Engineer Resume bullets

Before: Worked on wing design for aircraft project

After: Conducted structural analysis and FEA using NASTRAN on composite wing assembly for CS-25 certified aircraft, achieving 12% weight reduction whilst maintaining ultimate load requirements

Before: Improved aerodynamic performance of components

After: Optimised nacelle aerodynamics through CFD analysis in ANSYS Fluent, reducing drag coefficient by 8% and improving fuel efficiency by 3.2% across flight envelope

Before: Supported certification activities for new system

After: Led DO-160 environmental qualification testing and certification documentation for avionics cooling system, achieving EASA approval 6 weeks ahead of programme schedule

Aerospace Engineer Resume keywords — FAQ

What keywords should a Aerospace Engineer put on their Resume?

A Aerospace Engineer Resume should include core skills such as Aerodynamics, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Structural Analysis, Propulsion Systems, Flight Dynamics, and name specific tools like CATIA, ANSYS, MATLAB, Simulink, SolidWorks. Always match the exact terms used in the job description you are applying to.

How do I make my Aerospace Engineer Resume ATS-friendly?

Use a plain-text skills section, mirror the keywords from the job posting word-for-word, spell out acronyms once alongside their short form, and quantify your achievements. Mirror exact terminology from job adverts: use 'CFD' if the posting says 'CFD', not 'fluid simulation', and include both acronyms and full terms (e.g., 'Finite Element Analysis (FEA)').

What skills do employers look for in a Aerospace Engineer?

Beyond technical skills, employers screen for Problem Solving, Attention to Detail, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Technical Communication. Relevant qualifications include Chartered Engineer (CEng), Incorporated Engineer (IEng), EASA Part-66 Licence.

Is your Aerospace Engineer Resume missing these keywords?

Upload your Resume and paste the job description to get a free ATS compatibility score and see exactly which keywords you are missing.

Check your Resume for free

Keywords for related roles

Browse all Resume keyword guides →