Engineering

In Australia, engineers work in a diverse range of industries, from telecommunications to pharmaceuticals, mining to information technology. Traditionally, engineering has been divided into four broad disciplines: Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical. The profession has changed in recent times and there are now numerous sub-disciplines and emerging streams of engineering, such as Environmental, Geomatic, Mining and Software.

The work

Chemical engineers study the transformation process of raw materials into usable end products.

Civil engineers are involved in the planning, design and construction of the built environment and the physical infrastructure that supports modern society. This encompasses all forms of construction including bridges, dams, sewerage systems, large buildings, railways and harbours.

Electrical engineers are responsible for designing, constructing and maintaining the systems used for the generation, transmission and utilisation of electricity.

Electronics engineers specialise in the use of electronics such as those found in computer, communication and telecommunication systems.

Environmental engineers assess and manage the effects of human and other activity on the natural environment.

Mechanical engineers design, organise and manage the construction, operation and maintenance of mechanical equipment and machinery.

Mining engineers specialise in mine development and management, extractive technology, mine reclamation and minerals processing.

Though the numbers employed in mining are relatively small, the sector has experienced exceptionally strong job growth due to the recent mining boom and rapid growth and industrialisation of China and other Asian economies. This has led to a wealth of career opportunities for both mining and other engineers.

What you need

  • Work experience in the relevant field is highly attractive to employers
  • Further training courses or double degrees, e.g. Engineering/Law or Engineering/Commerce are highly regarded and increase career opportunities in later years

Money matters: graduate salary ranges for selected relevant occupations

  • Chemical Engineer: $50,000-$61,000
  • Civil Engineer: $50,000-$59,900
  • Electrical Engineer: $51,000-$63,500
  • Electronics Engineer: $50,000-$60,000
  • Engineering Manager: $55,000-$80,800
  • Mechanical Engineer: $50,000-$63,300

-- Figures from the Australian Graduate Survey 2008, GCA. Ranges refer to the middle 50 per cent of salaries for bachelor degree graduates with permanent residency, in full-time employment in Australia Oct 07-Apr 08.

Industry at a Glance
Source: www.joboutlook.gov.au

  • 55% employed in NSW & Qld (civil engineering professionals)
  • 38 yrs median age (industrial, mechanical & production engineers)
  • Positive outlook (12% growth: electrical engineering)