If you think engineering means rocking a hard hat all the time, think again!
The engineering skills you gain from qualifications and degrees can set you up to work in all kinds of places: outdoors, at live events, in the classroom and even in space. Here are 10 surprising engineering careers that we think everyone should know about.
1. Jewellery maker
Designs, makes and repairs necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings, usually using metals and gems.
Get there: Certificate II in Engineering, TAFE NSW
2. Virtual reality engineer
Brings virtual reality environments to life through coding so users can interact with them.
Get there: Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons), University of South Australia
3. Astronaut
Has a range of space duties, including piloting spacecraft and conducting experiments and maintenance.
Get there: A bachelor’s degree in engineering, then apply to an overseas space program for training (though you must be a citizen of that country to be eligible)
RELATED: Launch your space career
4. STEM educator
Teaches students science, technology, engineering and maths subjects, usually specialising in one area.
Get there: Master of Teaching (Secondary) STEM, Western Sydney University
RELATED: Download our FREE STEM Educator Job Kit
As a STEM educator you’ll inspire and nurture hundreds of people, equipping them with crucial problem-solving and critical thinking skills that will ultimately make our world a better place.
In this free 8-page Job Kit, sponsored by QUT, Brisbane, you’ll meet real-life mentors, get career tips and insights, and get inspired about how you can kickstart a rewarding career in STEM education.
5. Live sound engineer
Installs and operates sound equipment at live concerts, theatre productions and other events.
Get there: Diploma of Music (Sound Production), TAFE SA
6. Patent examiner
Assesses written reports and descriptions about new inventions to see if they comply with legal requirements.
Get there: A bachelor’s degree in engineering
RELATED: Meet a STEM lawyer
7. Sports engineer
Designs and develops new sports equipment and tech that will be useful for athletes and sports teams.
Get there: Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Hons), The University of Adelaide
RELATED: Discover STEM + Sport
8. Marine engineer
Plans, coordinates and controls the operation and maintenance of a ship’s equipment and plants.
Get there: Advanced Diploma of Marine Engineering, TAFE WA
9. Draftsperson
Works in a construction team and creates technical drawings for new building designs.
Get there: Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting, TAFE Queensland
10. Mechanical fitter
Builds, installs and repairs heavy machinery, such as tractors, trucks and excavators.
Get there: Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade, TAFE NSW
This article first appeared in Careers with STEM: Engineering 2023. For more on STEM careers, sign up to our weekly e-newsletter.
