Project Engineer

Lead innovative, large-scale and purpose-driven projects from conception to completion.

As a Project Engineer, you’ll collaborate with diverse teams and tackle challenges assertively as they happen, making a tangible impact across various industries.

Project Engineers oversee and coordinate engineering projects, ensuring they meet timelines, deadlines, and come in or under budget. Operating in a dynamic and challenging environment, they collaborate with diverse teams to solve complex challenges towards a common goal.

In this role, you’ll be at the intersection of technical expertise and project management. Your days will be filled with planning, coordinating, and overseeing various aspects of engineering projects. You’ll use project management software, technical tools, and your problem-solving skills to keep projects on track and resolve issues as they arise.

As a Project Engineer, you’ll be responsible for the successful execution of projects from initiation to completion. Your work will directly impact the efficiency and success of engineering initiatives, contributing to the growth and innovation of your organisation.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Create detailed comprehensive project plans featuring timelines, resources, budgets, contractors and stakeholders.
  2. Facilitate and ensure a dynamic, cohesive and outcome focused working environment.
  3. Review each stage, service and outcome for excellence and compliance.
  4. You will be responsible for managing conflicting schedules and resources, requiring fast-action and assertive solutions.
  5. Monitor progression through tracking milestones, celebrating wins, and be constantly reviewing performance and progress against safety and efficiency measures.

Becoming a Project Engineer typically requires a combination of education and practical experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Develop technical skills: Start with a strong foundation in engineering principles and project management concepts.
  2. Choose your educational path vocational education and training, or higher education or a combination of both.
  3. Gain experience: Look for internships or entry-level positions in engineering or project management.
  4. Build your network: Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other engineers and project managers.
  5. Develop leadership skills: Take on team lead roles or volunteer for project coordination responsibilities.
  6. Apply for positions: With education, experience, and potentially some certifications, you can apply for Project Engineer roles. Even if there are no jobs advertised with the employer you’re interested in, it can be a good idea to send a cover letter with your resume expressing your interest.
Also Known As:
  • Project Officer
  • Senior Project Engineer
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a project engineer include:

  • Analytical skills
  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Project management
  • Technical comprehension
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a project engineer include:

  • Integrity
  • Innovative
  • Collaborative
  • Resilient
  • Accountable
  • Enterprising – “Persuader”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Chemistry
  • Engineering Skills
  • Furnishing Skills
  • Physics
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Engineering

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Project Engineer can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$85,000
Median
$100,000
High
$120,000

For those seeking a practical, hands-on approach to becoming a Project Engineer, Vocational Education and Training (VET) offers valuable pathways. Undertaking a trade qualification can be useful if you plan on a career as a project engineer.  Other useful qualifications to support you in this role may include:

  • Certificate IV in Engineering (MEM40119)
  • Diploma of Engineering – Planning (MEM50722)
  • Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820)
  • Advanced Diploma of Engineering (MEM60122)

These courses provide practical skills in engineering and project management, often including industry placements for real-world experience.

For a comprehensive theoretical foundation and broader career opportunities, pursuing a university degree is a common path:

  • Bachelor of Engineering (with a focus on your preferred engineering discipline)
  • Bachelor of Project Management

These degrees provide in-depth knowledge of engineering principles and project management methodologies, often including internship opportunities and industry projects.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry