Ever wondered how skyscrapers stay standing, how your smartphone works, or how astronauts make it to space? The answer lies in the (very exciting) engineering industry!
Engineering in Australia is a super diverse field that offers endless career opportunities. Whether you love designing, problem-solving, or working with cutting-edge technology, there’s an engineering career that could be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a profession that comes with great job security and financial rewards! So, if you’re curious about the different types of careers in engineering and whether engineering is a good career for you, keep reading to discover everything you need to know!
What Is Engineering?
In simple terms, engineers are problem-solvers, innovators, and creators. They use science, maths, and technology to design, build, and improve things we use every day, from bridges and smartphones to medical equipment and even space stations!
Think about it: every cool gadget, game console, roller coaster, or even the Wi-Fi you’re using right now exists because an engineer made it happen. Engineers don’t just sit in labs wearing white coats (though some do)! They work on real-world challenges, making our cities smarter, our technology faster, and even helping us explore outer space! So, if you’ve ever dreamed of designing robots, creating eco-friendly cars, or even building the next Sydney Harbour Bridge, then engineering might just be your perfect career!
What is STEM?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, so it’s important to be familiar with the term if you’re interested in engineering!
Think of STEM as a superpower that allows you to transform the world. Love gaming? STEM skills help developers create immersive video games. Passionate about space? STEM is how astronauts and engineers send rockets beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Want to fight climate change? STEM helps develop renewable energy sources and smart environmental solutions.
STEM is everywhere, whether it’s designing cutting-edge medical devices, developing artificial intelligence, or even creating the next viral app. If you enjoy thinking creatively, experimenting, and solving problems, then diving into STEM could set you up for an incredible career in engineering or beyond!
Is Engineering a Good Career to Choose?
If you’re wondering, ‘Is engineering a good career?’ the answer is a resounding yes! Engineering in Australia is in high demand, with industries constantly looking for skilled professionals. This means that engineers earn competitive salaries, have job security, and get to work on innovative projects that shape the future. Plus, engineering jobs exist in almost every industry – from renewable energy and robotics to healthcare and space exploration.
Another great thing about being an engineer is that it’s a globally recognized profession. This means your engineering degree can take you all over the world, too!
Learn About the Different Types of Careers in Engineering
There are so many different types of careers in engineering that there’s bound to be one that fits your interests! Let’s explore some of the most exciting options:
Civil Engineer
Average Civil Engineer Salary: $95,000 – $115,000
In short, civil engineers design and build infrastructure like roads, bridges, tunnels, and buildings. This means that they can shape our cityscapes while ensuring everything is safe, functional, and sustainable. How cool is that?
Mechanical Engineer
Average Mechanical Engineer Salary: $105,000 – $125,000
Mechanical engineers work with machines and tools, designing everything from engines and robotics to air-conditioning systems and sports cars. The possibilities are truly endless in this career, and If you love tinkering with gadgets, this could be the perfect fit for you!
Electrical Engineer
Average Electrical Engineer Salary: $110,000 – $130,000
Electrical engineers deal with electricity, designing power systems, electrical circuits, and even the technology that powers smartphones and computers. So, if you ever find yourself wondering who keeps all the lights on, you now know it’s this kind of engineer!
Software Engineer
Average Software Engineer Salary: $100,000 – $120,000
Is your screentime a little high (and do you have no intention of lowering it anytime soon)? If so, software engineering might just be your dream job! Software engineers develop apps, websites, and computer programs, and with technology playing such a massive role in our lives, it’s no surprise that this is one of the fastest-growing careers in engineering.
Biomedical Engineer
Average Biomedical Engineer Salary: $75,000 – $95,000
While the role might sound a little intimidating, working in biomedical engineering is actually super cool! Those in this branch of engineering work at the intersection of engineering and healthcare, creating medical devices like prosthetic limbs, artificial hearts, and MRI machines to improve people’s lives.
Aerospace Engineer
Average Aerospace Engineer Salary: $115,000 – $135,000
Is your favourite movie franchise Star Wars? Or are you just fascinated with the idea of exploring the cosmos? Well, aerospace engineers design aircraft, satellites, and even space exploration vehicles. If you dream of working with NASA or SpaceX, this is the career for you!
Environmental Engineer
Average Environmental Engineer Salary: $85,000 – $105,000
If you’re a recycling pro, wildlife warrior or simply want to leave the world better than you found it, this next one is perfect for you! Environmental engineers develop solutions to protect the planet; in fact, it’s their whole job! They work on projects like clean water systems, renewable energy, and pollution control.
Chemical Engineer
Average Chemical Engineer Salary: $95,000 – $115,000
One engineering role that can transport you into tonnes of different kinds of industries is that of a chemical engineer! They create and refine all kinds of products like food, medicine, and even fuel. This line of work could get you into pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, or even brewing.
How to Get Into Engineering
Now that you’re fully informed about all of the super exciting opportunities in engineering, let’s talk about how to actually become an engineer:
Study the Right Subjects in High School
To pursue a career in engineering in Australia, try focusing on subjects like maths, physics, and chemistry when you’re in high school. These will prepare you for the technical aspects of an engineering degree and help you hit the ground running.
Choose an Engineering Degree
After high school, you’ll need to complete a Bachelor of Engineering at a university. The most highly ranked universities for engineering in Australia include the University of New South Wales (UNSW), the University of Melbourne and Monash University.
Gain Practical Experience
Internships and work experience are crucial for becoming a successful engineer. Many companies offer graduate programs to help you get hands-on experience in your chosen field.
Get Registered
Some engineering fields require professional registration with Engineers Australia, ensuring you meet industry standards.
Kickstart Your Engineering Career Today!
Engineering in Australia is an exciting and diverse career path with endless opportunities! Whether you want to build skyscrapers, design cutting-edge technology, or protect the environment, there’s an engineering career for you! Plus, with the competitive salaries, job security, and global opportunities, there’s never been a better time to consider becoming an engineer.
So, is engineering a good career? Absolutely! If you’re passionate about problem-solving, innovation, and making a difference, then a career in engineering might just be your perfect fit. Start exploring your options by checking out our STEM employers today and take the first step toward an exciting future as an engineer!
