Engineering is all around us. From the roads we drive on to the phones we use every day, those working in engineering careers are behind the ideas, designs and solutions that keep our world moving forward.
The best part? Engineering careers are just as diverse as they are exciting. So, whether you’re interested in building infrastructure, designing cutting-edge tech, or finding smarter ways to generate energy, there’s a path for you.
One of the most exciting spaces for engineers right now is in the energy industry. As Australia pushes towards a more sustainable, renewable-powered future, engineers are right at the heart of the transition; solving complex challenges, developing new technologies, and reimagining how our energy systems actually work.
That’s where our friends at AEMO, the Australian Energy Market Operator, come in. Engineers at AEMO are doing everything from assessing the design of new solar and wind farms, to investigating issues in the power grid, to planning what our energy system will look like in five, ten, or even thirty years from now. Their work spans everything from software development to grid design, from real-time operations to long-term planning. It’s big picture thinking with real-world impact.
So if you’re curious about where an engineering career could take you, and how you can help shape Australia’s energy industry, keep reading. There’s a whole world of opportunities and AEMO careers waiting.
Exploring Engineering Roles
Engineers are key players in the energy industry, and have a hand in almost everything from assessing the design of new solar and wind farms that are powering Australia’s transition to renewable energy, to investigating issues as they emerge in our power grid, and to planning what our energy system will look like 5, 10, or even 30 years from now.
There are many different types of roles for engineers who are interested in:
- Solving the challenges of running a grid with more and more renewable energy.
- Working with developers & network companies on the design of new generators like solar & wind farms, and big batteries joining the grid.
- The design & planning of new poles and wires.
- Planning for the energy transition.
- Investigating issues as they emerge in the power system.
- Making the software that runs the power system & electricity market.
- Implementing reforms to the power system & electricity market as our grid evolves.
- Planning for extreme system events.
The best part? AEMO wants to help you make a real difference and create an impact in the energy industry that you’re truly proud of. Whether you’re interested in working on any of the projects listed above or tackling something totally different, they’re bound to offer an engineering career that perfectly suits you!
What are the Key Responsibilities of Engineers at AEMO?
Engineers at AEMO play a lot of different roles, like helping to operate Australia’s energy system and plan for its future! AEMO takes a leading role in guiding Australia’s energy transition, and engineers have the skills to solve many of the thorny problems involved.
How do Engineers Contribute to Australia’s Energy Transition?
The energy transition in Australia is well under-way but there are a huge number of engineering challenges to solve before we can get close to 100% renewable energy in Australia.
Engineers at AEMO play a critical role in solving many of these and are really at the heart of Australia’s energy transition. Australia, as an island, can’t lean on its neighbours when things go wrong. We have some of the highest amounts of rooftop solar in the world, but we’re getting to the point where sometimes we have more power as a nation than we can handle.
New technologies are constantly evolving & being tested on Australia’s grid. We need new & faster ways of finding & solving potential issues as they arise, all while the amount of power Australia needs continues to increase. All these issues are solvable, but they need people to solve them. AEMO plays a guiding role in the energy transition & it’s engineers at AEMO who tackle these issues every day.
FAQ: Pathways to an Engineering Career
We get it: figuring out how to launch your engineering career, especially in a specialised field like the energy industry, can come with a lot of questions. But don’t worry too much! Whether you’re wondering what to study, how to land a graduate role, or what skills you’ll need to succeed, we’ve got you covered. Check out our FAQs below for insider insights from the pros at AEMO!
Question: What educational qualifications are required for engineering careers
Answer: Engineering careers typically require at least an undergraduate engineering degree. However, there are also pathways for others from a STEM background to get involved in engineering roles at AEMO, including their graduate program. Plus, there are plenty of roles for non-engineers who are passionate about the energy industry too!
Question: Does AEMO offer graduate programs for aspiring engineers?
Answer: Yes, AEMO offers graduate programs and takes around 15-20 graduates each year, many of whom are engineers. The grad program is 2 years and is made up of four 6-month rotations in different teams. There are a few different streams, including one for those looking to kickstart an engineering career. It’s a fantastic place to learn from some very experienced people, and get a good sense of what AEMO does, and how our energy systems & markets work.
Question: Are there internship opportunities for high school or university students?
Answer: Yes, AEMO has an internship program, and also partners with organisations like the Australian Power Institute (API) which place interns at AEMO!
Question: What salary can graduate engineers expect at AEMO?
Answer: The starter graduate program salary for an engineer at AEMO is upwards of $90,000 (including super).
Essential Skills for a Successful Engineering Career
The key skill for anyone looking to start an engineering career is problem-solving (which you’ve likely been practising your whole life without even knowing it)!
Soft Skills are just as important. These are things like being a good communicator, having good interpersonal skills, and being able to work well in a team.
Being open-minded and keen to learn is incredibly useful. There are tonnes of exciting things to learn in the energy sector, and being comfortable asking questions and learning is a very valuable trait.
Finally, for an anyone in an engineering career, coding skills can be very useful. They are by no means required for most roles, but being comfortable writing some code to automate the more repetitive parts of the job can be hugely useful and make your life much easier.
AEMO’s Advice for Aspiring Energy Professionals
If you’re passionate about the energy industry, but aren’t quite sure how to get involved, AEMO is a great place to start. AEMO needs more engineers to keep Australia moving towards 100% renewable energy and the best part is that they want you to be one of them! In their own words:
“We are seeing fundamental shifts in the way that we generate and use electricity all across the world. Right now the energy sector is more exciting and interesting than it has been for probably 100 years, and that trend is showing no signs of stopping.”
The Future of Energy Needs You
Engineering careers in the energy industry, especially at organisations like AEMO, are full of purpose, challenge, and the opportunity to shape Australia’s future. If you’re ready to play a part in the renewable energy transition and want to work on projects that really matter, AEMO could be the perfect place to start.
Keen to learn more? Check out AEMO’s careers page to dive into their grad programs, internships, and all the exciting opportunities they offer!
