Mechanical Engineering
Jobs

The expected salary for a mechanical engineer varies as you become more experienced.

• Newly trained graduate mechanical engineers can earn $60,000 - $67,000
• Junior mechanical engineers can earn $65,000 - $80,000
• Intermediate mechanical engineers with some experience can earn $80,000 - $105,000
• Senior mechanical engineers can earn $110,000 - $140,000.*
• Associate mechanical engineers can earn $145,000 - $165,000.*
• Principal mechanical engineers can earn $160,000 - $190,000.*
• Associate Directors can earn $180,000 - $220,000.*
• Directors can earn $240,000 - $300,000.*

*Salary may depend on discipline, location, qualifications, accreditations and network/ability to generate business.

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a mechanical engineer include:

• Knowledge of complex HVAC systems, including chillers, boilers, fan units, air handling units and exhausts
• Understanding of the design and construction lifecycle
• Knowledge of the Building Codes of Australia and Australian Standards
• Skills in softwares such as AutoCAD, Revit MEP and CAMEL
• Excellent report writing skills
• Ability to coordinate with other disciplines, and take on other people's viewpoints
• Ability to use initiative, and think outside of the box

As a mechanical engineer there is potential to gain experience and move into either technical, project or team leadership within a consultancy environment, step sideways into a contractor or take the leap into client-side project management, advisory or even development.

Once you are fully qualified, you could apply for chartered status at the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) or another construction engineering institution licensed by the Engineering Council. This would improve your job prospects and help you progress in your career. You could also apply for NER (National Engineering Register) or Class 2 Buildings Accreditation.