Engineering Your Career

Engineering is one of the most dynamic and diverse career paths in Australia—and it’s evolving faster than ever. Whether it’s designing smarter cities, developing clean energy solutions, or shaping the future of space exploration, engineers play a critical role in solving real-world problems.

If you’re curious about what engineers do, or you’re considering a career in this innovative field, here’s a closer look at some of Australia’s most in-demand engineering disciplines and where they could take you.

Want to study engineering? Explore nationally recognised online engineering courses today.

Civil Engineering

When people think “engineer,” they often picture bridges, roads, or skyscrapers. That’s the domain of civil engineers. They plan, design, and manage infrastructure projects that support everyday life—from highways and dams to tunnels and airports.

Key industries: Government transport and infrastructure, construction, land development, utility companies

Average salary (AU): $122,000+ per year

Pathway courses: Civil Engineering qualifications

Resource and Environmental Engineering

Resource engineers (often working alongside environmental engineers) focus on sustainable use of natural resources—critical in a country like Australia with vast but finite mining, forestry, and water reserves.

They’re responsible for systems that ensure water treatment, waste management, recycling efficiency, and pollution control, particularly in regional and industrial zones.

Key industries: Environmental management, mining and resources, utilities, local government

Average salary (AU): $121,000+ per year

Explore: Environmental & Sustainability Engineering courses

Geotechnical Engineering

Before anything is built, the ground must be assessed. That’s where geotechnical engineers come in. They analyse soil, rock, and subsurface conditions to determine the safety and feasibility of major construction and mining projects.

They also evaluate geological hazards like landslides, sinkholes, and earthquakes—critical in infrastructure and disaster prevention planning.

Key industries: Construction, mining, infrastructure, geotechnical consultancy

Average salary (AU): $130,000+ per year

Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering

Pharmaceutical engineers are part of the team behind every tablet, vaccine, or injectable on the market. They design, test, and manage the systems that manufacture medical products with precision and consistency.

While often grounded in chemical or mechanical engineering, pharmaceutical roles are growing due to advancements in biotech and medical research.

Key industries: Pharmaceutical manufacturing, R&D, biotech startups, medical technology

Average salary (AU): $107,000+ per year

Explore related fields: Chemical Engineering | Biomedical Engineering

Aerospace Engineering

From designing aircraft to exploring space, aerospace engineers develop vehicles and propulsion systems that push the boundaries of science and technology. The field covers both aeronautical (within Earth’s atmosphere) and astronautical (space) disciplines.

Australia’s growing defence sector and investment in space technology (via the Australian Space Agency) is creating new career pathways in aerospace and defence engineering.

Key industries: Defence, aerospace manufacturing, government aviation and space agencies

Average salary (AU): $95,000+ per year

Computer Systems and Software Engineering

Computer systems engineers sit at the intersection of hardware and software. They design everything from microprocessors and embedded systems to complex cloud infrastructure and cybersecurity protocols.

Demand for these professionals is soaring, especially in industries prioritising automation, data security, and artificial intelligence.

Key industries: Technology and software firms, government, defence, fintech, startups

Average salary (AU): $100,000+ per year

Related study options: Software Engineering | IT & Networking

Where to Begin Your Engineering Journey

Whether you’re interested in sustainability, infrastructure, robotics, or health innovation, engineering is a career path that offers security, challenge, and long-term opportunity. You can start with a diploma, certificate, or degree program—many of which can be studied flexibly online.

Browse engineering courses now to start building the future—your own and the world’s.