Engineering in Australia – Sector Overview
Engineers work in a huge variety of sectors, and there is much variation in the job specifics. The field was once divided into four categories – chemical, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering – but new branches are developing all the time. Engineers work in a variety of industries in Australia. Most are employed as consultants, followed by those working in manufacturing. Somewhat surprisingly, the mining industry ranks only sixth on the list of sectors. Demand for engineers in Australia continues to grow and with barely half of engineers currently working originally from Australia, it is one of the sectors best available for migrants seeking work. On average around 9500 engineers graduate from Australian institutions each year, and about half that number retire. However with on average 13,000 extra engineers needed each year, migrants are needed to fill all the roles. The number of visas, both temporary and permanent, issued to professional engineers, engineering technologists and engineering associates has more than doubled between 2003-04 and 2010-11.
Engineering in Australia – Location
Engineering jobs in Australia are located all over the country. Jobs in the mining and oil and gas industries can be extremely isolated, but there is plenty of work in the main centres for those disinclined to “go bush”.
Engineering in Australia – Skills and Qualifications
Professional engineers in Australia tend to be educated to a high level – most have a Bachelors degree or more. Apprenticeships and cadetships are also an option. The skills, qualifications and work experience of migrants moving to Australia will be assessed by Engineers Australia, and there are international agreements which make the recognition of qualifications from certain institutes easier for those shifting country.
Engineering in Australia – Key Employers and Recruiters
The list of engineering companies in Australia is vast, so it is recommended identifying those that operate in your sector of interest and deciding who fits your interest.
Recruiters include:
- Hays
- Australian Engineering Recruitment
- TRS Staffing Solutions
- Australia Wide Personnel
- Ambit Engineering Recruitment
- JSM Appointments
- Calibrate Recruitment
- Mango Recruitment Solutions
Engineering in Australia – Pay
Given the high level of education and demand for engineers, it is not surprising that on the whole it is a well paid occupation. Level one professional engineers – graduate entry level – in the public sector can expect around $78,000 annually, rising up to over $200,000 for level five – senior managers. Level one engineers in the private sector start on slightly less than those in the public sector, but upper-level roles earn significantly more.
