insights Why you’ll want to pursue a mechanical engineering job in Australia

The engineering sector in Australia is thriving, and pursuing a career there is a rewarding and potential-filled endeavor.

Not only is the demand for mechanical engineers increasing year on year, but the number of skilled professionals available to meet the market's needs continues to fall short—meaning there are tons of opportunities for qualified engineers who are excited to bring their careers down under.

For qualified mechanical engineers, Australia holds opportunities abound—and AtkinsRéalis consistently supports mechanical engineers in roles across a wide variety of projects.

Australia offers mechanical engineers:

• Competitive salaries
• Preferential work visa policies
• A healthy work-life balance
• Limitless professional opportunities

Do the opportunities for mechanical engineers in Australia pique your interest? Let us walk you through the most important things you need to know about when considering mechanical engineering jobs in Australia.

Mechanical engineering jobs in Australia

1. Is there a demand for mechanical engineers in Australia?

According to Engineers Australia, “Australia’s engineering skills and [labor] shortage is the highest it has been for more than a decade”, with increasing demand across sectors spanning manufacturing, construction, and renewable energy sectors.

Meanwhile, less than 9% of graduates come out of education with an engineering degree—yet, demand for such graduates is only growing year after year.

Because the demand outweighs supply so significantly, you’re all but guaranteed a job in Australia if you are qualified in an engineering discipline.

Mechanical engineers are amongst the most in-demand professions outlined on the Australian government’s Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL), meaning obtaining a visa to work in Australia is usually no issue for mechanical engineers. 

2. Exciting career opportunities

No matter what your professional experience or areas of interest are, there is a diverse range of opportunities for qualified mechanical engineers in Australia. 

With top engineering companies like Bayer, Siemens, and Hatch operating across the country, there is an array of multidisciplinary projects that require the input of mechanical engineers. You’re as likely to find a position in mining or rock excavation as you are in aeronautics or hydroelectric energy.

Particular note should be paid to Australia’s efforts to bridge the gender gap in engineering professions—a commitment that AtkinsRéalis is deeply in support of. As a result, ample opportunities are open for female mechanical engineers in Australia.

While financial incentives aren’t everything, some professionals may be drawn to the additional incentive of high salaries in Australia. In fact, mechanical engineering jobs in Australia are amongst the best-remunerated in the STEM sector.

3. Work-life balance and quality of life

In our post-COVID world, flexible working styles and a healthy work-life balance are becoming an increasingly large motivation for many professionals.

For many careerists, the greatest draw that Australia holds is the comparatively high quality of life and satisfying work-life balance to other nations.

The country, with its seemingly endless variety of landscapes and metropolises, offers attractive lifestyle benefits.

Adventure seekers will surely be drawn to the chance to surf the Gold Coast or explore the Outback, while urban explorers will relish the opportunity to experience Australia’s cultural diversity and vibrant city life during their time off.

Find a mechanical engineering job in Australia today

For those who value professional opportunities, competitive salaries, and a favorable work-life balance, pursuing a mechanical engineering job in Australia is a worthwhile career choice.

AtkinsRéalis is committed to matching top-tier talent with their ideal positions, and there are opportunities open all over the world for professionals with the right qualifications. 

Explore the mechanical engineering jobs on offer with AtkinsRéalis today and discover which roles are the best fit for your experience, interests, and lifestyle preferences.