Mechanical Engineer Career Pathway
Mechanical engineering is at the forefront of new technologies, such as product design, robotics, energy planning, pollution control or acoustics. The breadth of a mechanical engineer's expertise is large; covering designing an air filtration system on a train to robotics. Mechanical engineering covers design and production system engineering, thermo-fluid mechanics and energy systems as well as mechatronics and control systems.
What does a Mechanical Engineer do?
Mechanical engineers work in both local and global industries, spanning many industries. They are responsible for the design of mechanical equipment, machines, components for manufacturing, and plant and systems within construction. They develop manufacturing specifications, confirming materials, equipment, piping, material flows, capacities and layout of plant and systems. They are responsible for the organisation of projects, looking after labour, material delivery and equipment.
Mechanical Engineers are responsible for the inspections of machinery to ensure optimum performance and coordinates the requirements of a mechanical engineering project. For complex projects, a mechanical engineer can work with other specialist engineers, such as software - as an example.
Career outlook at a glance
38
Median age of the Australian Mechanical Engineers (in years)
22,900
Mechanical Engineers workforce in Australia
$110,000
Average annual salary in Australia 1
Source: Jobs and Skills Australia. 2024.
1 Seek. September 2024. Mechanical Engineer
Where do Mechanical Engineers work?
Mechanical Engineers work on-site and in an office, and can spend their time between both, depending on the project. Just over 25.7% work in New South Wales, 28.3% work in Victoria and 18.4% work in Queensland.
How much do Mechanical Engineers earn in Australia?
According to Seek, the average annual salary in Australia for a Mechanical Engineer is between $100,000-$120,000. 2 They work an average of 43 hours per week.
2 Seek. September 2024. Mechanical Engineer Salary
Specialisations
Mechanical engineers can work in really varied industries, with a snapshot of these below:
- Heavy machinery
- Mining
- Power generation
- Manufacturing
- Production planning
- Automotive
- Aerospace
- Medical
- Environmental
- Building industries
- Consumer product design
Skills & attributes that can help you
It is crucial for mechanical engineers to have the skill set needed to perform their jobs, in addition to skills employees find attractive such as clear communication, ability to work well in a team and have strong interpersonal skills. The skills and knowledge to be a mechanical engineer are built throughout an undergraduate degree, as well as further developing these skills on the job once successfully completing this qualification. Below is a snapshot of some of these skills needed as an engineer:
SCU Online courses
SCU Online has a range of courses designed to help you achieve your career goals. Two options for engineers looking to move into a senior leadership role include the Master of Engineering Management and Master of Business Administration, delivered 100% online.
