‘Skills In Demand’, Why are Mechanical Engineers sought after in Australia? What ‘Migration Pathways’ are available in 2024?

The Australia’s economy has been expanding steadily over the decades, with new industries taking off (including renewables, manufacturing, defence, construction, etc.,) this in addition to new government infrastructure projects shaping the landscape across the nation. This renewed growth and economic cycle has driven the demand for Mechanical Engineers as indispensable and currently positioned as one of the most sought-after professionals in Australia.

Consequently, the demand for ‘Skilled Migration’ and ‘Employer Sponsored’ visas, particularly for Civil and Mechanical Engineers receives priority due it’s strong regional ties and shortage of qualified talent, this reflects Australia’s commitment to attract and retain talent to boost the continued demand in the engineering sector.

Is There a Demand for Mechanical Engineers in Australia?

The allure of Mechanical Engineering lies not only in its current high demand but also in the promising trajectory of future growth opportunities. The shortage of qualified engineers is ripe across the engineering sector in Australia, resonating across diverse industries and geographic regions. This demand is particularly pronounced in industrial, mechanical, maintenance and production sectors, as well as in critical industries such as mining, construction and information and communications technology.

Roles and Responsibilities of Mechanical Engineers

The responsibilities entrusted to Mechanical Engineers in the Australian context are multifaceted and be broader based on crucial needs for various sectors. As a Mechanical Engineer in Australia, one is tasked with dealing with the below roles and accountabilities:

• Designs mechanical equipment, machines, components, products for manufacture, and plant and systems for construction
• Develops specifications for manufacture, and determines materials, equipment, piping, material flows, capacities and layout of plant and systems
• Organises and manages project labour and the delivery of materials and equipment
• Establishes standards and policies for installation, modification, quality control, testing, inspection and maintenance according to engineering principles and safety regulations
• Inspects plant to ensure optimum performance is maintained
• Directs the maintenance of plant buildings and equipment, and co-ordinating the requirements for new designs, surveys and maintenance schedules

Remuneration for Mechanical Engineers in Australia

Recognising the pivotal role of Mechanical Engineers in driving operational efficiency, technological advancement, sustainable development, productivity and fostering economic growth, most of the organisations compete and seek to attract the qualified skills offering competitive compensation to professionals in this field. On average, Mechanical Engineers in Australia command an annual salary of approximately AUD115,000 with entry-level positions starting at AUD80,000 and experienced professionals earning up to AUD150,000 per year.

Migration Pathways for Mechanical Engineers

Australia offers a range of visa options catering to the unique needs and circumstances of Mechanical Engineers seeking to work or immigrate to the country. These include:

Permanent Visa Pathways:

Skilled Independent Visa (SC 189)

Skilled Nominated Visa (SC 190)

Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (SC 491)

Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (SC 186)

Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa (SC 494)

Temporary Visa Pathways:

Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (SC 482)

Training Visa (SC 407)

Temporary Graduate Visa (SC 485)

 ‘Skilled Migration to Australia’ as a Mechanical Engineer

For many the allure is to migrate to Australia permanently is the big draw, this is not unique to Mechanical Engineers professional aspiring to secure  Permanent Residency,  but for most other occupations as well. The immigration process entails fulfilling certain prerequisites and criteria before one may be granted permanent residency. Connect with the team at Prestige Legal Group

who can assist and guide you on the best strategy to take with your migration pathway.

Let’s understand the critical steps involved in the migration process:

1. Occupation & Skills: Candidates must undergo a Skills Assessment through an authorised assessing body in Australia, demonstrating their academic qualifications and relevant work experience in the in-demand occupation of Mechanical Engineering.
2. Points & Invitation: Candidates are required to lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) and achieve a minimum score of 65 points to be eligible for an invitation to apply for the visa.
3. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is essential, and candidates must undertake an authorised language test to demonstrate their language skills and meet the desired proficiency.
4. Age: Candidates applying must be below the age of 45 at the time of application.
5. Health & Character: Candidates must undergo medical examinations to ensure they are in good health and obtain police clearance certificates attesting to their clean criminal record.

How To Get ‘Skill Assessment’ as a  Mechanical Engineer

The Skilled Migration pathway requires all Mechanical Engineers to obtain a positive Skill Assessment from the recognised authority in Australia. This assessment serves as a validation of the candidate’s qualifications, skills, and work experience, laying the foundation for the subsequent stages of the immigration process.

Skill Assessment Process for Mechanical Engineering

Engineers Australia, the designated assessing authority for Mechanical Engineers, conducts comprehensive skills assessments to ascertain the compatibility of candidates’ qualifications and skills with Australian standards. Depending on the candidate’s educational background and qualifications obtained overseas, various assessment pathways may be available, ranging from degree recognition to competency demonstration reports (CDRs). Watch the video below that  guides you in navigating the skill assessment process with Engineers Australia.