How to Stand Out in the Australia Engineering Market

Standing out in Australia’s competitive engineering market is challenging but essential. Employers are looking for technical skills, industry knowledge, and well-rounded professionals who bring added value. This guide provides practical strategies for engineers considering a career move in the country.

What are companies looking for?

Employers seek candidates with strong technical expertise and relevant software experience. Key in-demand skills include:

• GoldSim: Used for pre-feasibility studies in mining and water quality modelling.
• TuFlow, AutoCAD & hydraulic modelling: Standard software for engineering roles.
• Python & R: Essential for handling large data sets and improving efficiency.

Additionally, understanding Australian regulations, such as the EPBC Act and EPA guidelines, is valuable, especially for environmental engineering roles.

How to stand out in the market

Be active beyond applications

Engineers should build an online presence to showcase expertise and connect with key industry figures:

• Engage with professional associations like Engineers Australia.
• Share industry insights on LinkedIn.
• Request recommendations from colleagues and supervisors.
• Follow companies of interest to stay updated on opportunities.

Use referrals

Referrals increase your chances of securing an interview. Many companies offer referral schemes where employees can recommend candidates.

Tailor your CV

Hiring managers typically spend only 10 seconds reviewing a CV. Make sure yours stands out by:

• Highlighting key achievements with measurable results.
• Including relevant certifications and software proficiencies.
• Providing clear start and end dates for projects to avoid gaps.

Acing your interview

Prepare thoroughly

Research your prospective employer and be ready to discuss:

• The company’s major projects and industry positioning.
• Your relevant experience and technical skills.
• How you can contribute to long-term business growth.

Handling salary discussions

When asked about salary expectations, avoid giving a range. Instead, respond with:

• “I’d like to discuss compensation after learning more about the role.”
• “I’m looking for a salary that reflects my experience and industry benchmarks.”

Engineering your next career move

Leveraging specialist recruiters can help secure the right role. If you are looking for new opportunities, submit your CV to LVI Associates.