The top platforms for finding manufacturing jobs in Australia include:

• SEEK (seek.com.au): Australia’s leading job site with over 150,000 listings
• Jora (au.jora.com): Aggregates job ads from multiple sources
• LinkedIn: Focused on professional networking and white-collar job opportunities
• Workforce Australia (workforceaustralia.gov.au): Government initiative for job searching and career information.

To tailor your manufacturing job search effectively:

• Focus on the type of role you’re interested in (e.g., production, quality assurance, engineering)
• Consider the specific manufacturing sub-industry that aligns with your skills and interests
• Target locations where manufacturing is prominent or where you’d like to work
• Use industry-specific keywords in your search queries
• Utilise both major job search sites and industry-specific platforms to maximise your opportunities.

It depends where you want to go with your career. Often, the most relevant high school subjects for a manufacturing career include:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Engineering Design
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
• Industrial Arts

These subjects provide the technical knowledge and problem-solving skills essential for success in manufacturing. Take a look at the occupation pages on Manufacturing Matters to learn more about the different high school subjects that will help you take on a career that interests you.

Extracurricular activities that complement your interests in manufacturing include:

• Robotics or engineering clubs
• Science fairs and competitions
• Work experience programs

These activities help develop hands-on skills, build your network, and demonstrate your passion to potential employers.

High school students can explore manufacturing career opportunities through:

• Manufacturing facility tours
• Industry speaker events
• Career fairs and expos
• Mentorship programs

Having your school connect with Manufacturing Skills Queensland. These experiences provide valuable insights into the diverse career paths available within the manufacturing sector.

Popular university programs for manufacturing careers include:

• Bachelor of Engineering (with specialisations in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Materials Science, and Industrial Engineering)
• Master of Advanced Manufacturing
• Bachelor of Business Management
• Bachelor of Food Science and Technology
• Bachelor of Science (with specialisations in Chemistry, Food Technology, Environmental Science)
• Master of Engineering (Management).

Benefits of a university education in manufacturing include:

• In-depth theoretical and practical knowledge
• Exposure to cutting-edge research and technologies
• Opportunities for internships and industry placements
• Potential for advanced roles in design, research, or management
• Pathways to further postgraduate studies.
• Specialised knowledge in areas like food processing, chemical engineering, and materials science.

To enhance your university experience and prepare for a manufacturing career:

• Participate in student design competitions or engineering clubs
• Seek out internships or co-op placements with manufacturing companies
• Engage in research projects or undergraduate thesis work
• Network with industry professionals and alumni

These experiences will complement your academic studies and provide valuable industry exposure.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) in manufacturing offers practical, industry-focused training that prepares students for specific occupations or trades. VET programs are delivered through registered training organisations. There are also a range of apprenticeship and traineeship options in manufacturing.

Popular VET courses for the manufacturing industry include:

• Certificate II in Manufacturing Technology (MSM20216)
• Certificate III in Process Manufacturing (MSM30116)
• Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM31922)
• Certificate IV in Industrial Automation and Control (UEE43220)
• Diploma of Aeroskills (Mechanical) (MEA50219)
• Diploma of Food Science and Technology (FBP50121)
• Advanced Diploma of Laboratory Management (MSL60122)

And plenty more.

Benefits of VET programs in manufacturing include:

• Gaining hands-on, job-ready skills
• Earning nationally recognised qualifications
• Potential for apprenticeships or traineeships
• Flexible learning options, including part-time or online study
• Pathways to further education or higher-level roles
• Seamless transition to advanced studies and career progression.

Work experience opportunities in the manufacturing sector include:

• Internships in areas like production engineering, quality assurance, maintenance and repair, and supply chain management
• Job shadowing programs
• Apprenticeships and traineeships
• Volunteer or part-time work in manufacturing businesses
• Participation in industry events such as trade shows and conferences

Internships in manufacturing can benefit your career by:

• Providing hands-on experience in a professional setting
• Offering exposure to various aspects of the industry
• Allowing you to network with potential employers
• Helping you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations
• Enhancing your resume and making you more competitive in the job market.

When seeking work experience in manufacturing:

• Look for opportunities that align with your interests and career goals
• Consider both large manufacturers and smaller, specialised companies
• Be open to different roles to gain a broader understanding of the industry
• Attend industry events to network and learn about potential opportunities
• Leverage your educational institution’s career services for placement assistance
• Be proactive in reaching out to companies, even if they don’t advertise formal programs.