The list is here! Is your dream job on it?
LinkedIn recently released its Jobs on the Rise 2026: The 15 fastest-growing jobs in Australia report and we’re totally NOT surprised that every single one requires STEM skills.
There are also four careers listed that are heavy on the STEM, and if you’re keen on getting into technology or engineering after school then you’ll want to pay attention to this.
The 15 fastest-growing jobs in Australia
Plus, the STEM skills needed in each one!
- AI engineer – technology, engineering
- Chief risk officer – maths
- Mechanical engineer – engineering
- Director of artificial intelligence – technology
- Organisational development manager – technology, maths
- Legal director – technology
- Founder – technology, maths
- Media director – technology
- Regulatory affairs consultant – technology
- Power system engineer – science, engineering
- Head of environment, health and safety – science, technology
- Psychotherapist – science
- Head of sales – technology, maths
- Tax specialist – maths
- Strategic partnerships manager – technology
Read more about the 15 fastest-growing jobs in Australia.
What does this mean for the future of work?
Professor Yan Tat Wong, Head of Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering at Monash University, says the report paints a clear picture of Australia’s rapidly evolving workforce, highlighting how technological change, industrial transformation and leadership innovation are reshaping demand for skills.
He points out that amongst the fastest-growing jobs listed, four really highlight the meeting of technical expertise, leadership capability and systems thinking that will define the next decade of Australian engineering and technology. These are:
Mechanical engineers
Mechanical engineers are in demand in exciting fields like renewable energy, smart buildings, high-tech manufacturing and medical technology. Whether it’s making aircraft more cost-effective, designing safer transport systems or creating autonomous technologies, mechanical engineers work across industries like robotics, automotive, energy, construction and manufacturing.
Want to become a mechanical engineer or know what the job is like day-to-day? Hear from real people who work in this field in the Careers with STEM: Mechanical Engineer Job Kit. Read now or download a free copy.
AI engineers + directors of artificial intelligence
The field of AI refers to developing computer systems that use big sets of data to perform “intelligent” tasks: think visual perception, understanding natural language, reasoning and decision making. Machine learning is one way of building such systems based on providing the computer with examples of what it should do, and let it figure out (learn) how to do it.
We cover lots of exciting study and career paths in AI in the latest issue of Careers with STEM: Artificial Intelligence. Read it here or order a copy.
Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for our AI Engineer Job Kit coming soon!
Power systems engineers
Professor Yan Tat Wong says that this role increasingly blends traditional electrical engineering fundamentals with data-driven analysis, predictive modelling and smart-grid technologies. Power system engineers are not only essential to maintaining stable electricity supply but also to enabling new energy solutions that support electrified transport, industrial growth, and a sustainable future.
Learn more about careers in technology and engineering:
- Careers with Technology
- Careers with Engineering
- STEM pros working in tech
- STEM pros working in engineering
Read our latest issues of Careers with STEM: Technology and Careers with STEM: Engineering.
Main image: Shutterstock
