Aerospace Engineer Salary: Legal Minimums, Award Rates, and What the Data Shows

Understanding the Aerospace Engineer Salary in Australia

When researching an aerospace engineer salary, it is important to distinguish between the legal minimum, award rates, and typical market earnings. This guide explains the pay floors that apply and what the official data shows.

The Legal Minimum Wage

For any employee not covered by a modern award or registered agreement, the national minimum wage applies. As of 1 July 2026, the Fair Work Commission set this at $26.44 per hour or $1,004.90 per week for a full-time adult employee. Casual employees receive a 25% loading, bringing the rate to $33.05 per hour. These rates are before tax and do not include superannuation, which the employer must pay on top at 12% of ordinary time earnings.

However, most aerospace engineers are covered by an award or enterprise agreement. The Fair Work Ombudsman explains that award rates often exceed the national minimum. For example, the Professional Employees Award 2020 covers many engineering professionals, including aerospace engineers, and sets minimum salaries based on classification levels. These rates are higher than the national minimum and include allowances and penalty rates where applicable.

Award Rates and Enterprise Agreements

Aerospace engineers may be employed under the Professional Employees Award or a specific enterprise agreement negotiated with their employer. The award contains classification levels from Engineer-in-Training to Senior Professional Engineer, each with a minimum annual salary. These rates are updated annually following the Fair Work Commission’s wage review. The Modern Awards Pay Database provides the current minimum rates for each classification.

Enterprise agreements can set higher pay and conditions. If you are covered by an agreement, check its terms for the applicable salary. The Fair Work Commission registers these agreements, and they override the award but cannot undercut the national minimum wage.

What the ABS Data Shows

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) collects earnings data for occupations. According to Jobs and Skills Australia, which uses ABS data, aeronautical engineers (a closely related occupation) had a median weekly earnings figure that is not published at the six-digit ANZSCO level due to statistical reliability. The available data shows that 91% of aeronautical engineers work full-time, with average full-time hours of 42 per week. The median age is 37 years, and only 11% of the workforce is female. These figures give context but not a precise salary figure.

For a broader comparison, the ABS May 2026 survey reported full-time adult ordinary-time earnings of $2,083.70 per week across all occupations. Aerospace engineers typically earn above the national average due to their specialised skills, but exact figures depend on experience, location, and employer.

Separating the Legal Minimum from Market Rates

It is crucial to understand that the legal minimum is a floor, not a target. A negotiated salary for an aerospace engineer will almost always be higher. Factors such as years of experience, qualifications, industry sector (defence, commercial aviation, manufacturing), and location influence the actual pay. The national minimum wage ensures a baseline, but award rates and enterprise agreements set the enforceable minimum for most engineers.

Superannuation and Other Entitlements

Superannuation is paid on top of the salary at 12% from 1 July 2026. For example, on a $100,000 annual salary, the employer contributes an additional $12,000 to super. This is not deducted from the quoted pay. Other entitlements such as annual leave, personal leave, and public holidays are set by the National Employment Standards or the applicable award.

Where to Find More Information

• Which minimum wage applies – Use our tool to check if you are award-free or covered by an award.
• Rate tables – View current national minimum and award rates.

For personalised advice, consult the Fair Work Ombudsman or your union. This guide is for orientation only and does not constitute legal or tax advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage for an aerospace engineer in Australia?

If no award or enterprise agreement applies, the national minimum wage is $26.44 per hour (or $1,004.90 per week) from 1 July 2026. However, most aerospace engineers are covered by a modern award or agreement that sets higher rates. The Professional Employees Award or a specific enterprise agreement may apply.

Do aerospace engineers receive casual loading?

If employed as a casual, the national minimum casual rate is $33.05 per hour (including 25% loading). Award or agreement casual loadings may differ. Always check the applicable award or agreement for the correct casual rate.

How does superannuation affect an aerospace engineer’s pay?

Superannuation is paid on top of ordinary time earnings at 12% (from 1 July 2026). It is not deducted from the quoted hourly or weekly rate. For example, on a $26.44 hourly rate, the employer must contribute an additional $3.17 per hour to super.

For the published floors, see the rate tables and how the figures work.