How do I become a chief engineer
Get qualified to work as a chief engineer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Chief Engineer.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Chief Engineer generally earns $3,200 per week ($166,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
Employment numbers have remained stable in this industry in recent years. There are currently 1,900 people working in this profession in Australia and many of them specialise as a Chief Engineer. Chief Engineers may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
If a career as a Chief Engineer interests you, consider enrolling in a Master of Engineering (Mechanical). This course would be ideal for students with a background in mechanical, instrumentation and control, electrical or industrial plant and systems engineering. A Doctor of Engineering, Master of Engineering (Civil: Structural), Master of Engineering (Electrical Systems) or Master of Engineering (Industrial Automation) may also be appropriate.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
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Chief Engineer careers
A Chief Engineer oversees the repair and maintenance of machinery and equipment in a range of settings. You might design and create new equipment to suit a particular purpose or make changes to existing engineering systems. Chief Engineers might supervise a team of workers and may specialise in a particular type of engineering such as mechanical, electrical or industrial.
Chief Engineers should have strong analytical and problem solving abilities. It’s important that you have excellent technical skills and keen attention to detail. A Chief Engineer should have strong leadership abilities and must be able to communicate well with people from a range of backgrounds. You may have to adapt your skills to suit a range of circumstances.
