Working in Victoria An Engineers Guide

Working in Victoria
An Engineers guide
Contents
Introduction......................................................................................5 How to use this guide......................................................................5 Chapter 1 Engineering in Victoria...............................................7 Victorian geography.........................................................................7 Victorian labour market...................................................................7 Regional Victoria..............................................................................9 Major industries and employers of engineers...............................9 Visa Options for Engineers...........................................................10 Chapter 2 Government engineering.........................................14 Federal.............................................................................................14 State Government of Victoria.......................................................14 Local government..........................................................................15 Chapter 3 Infrastructure and utility sectors.............................16 Roads...............................................................................................16 Author: Ian Little By the same author: Project Australia: Engineers Migrate Australia Pack (DVD, book, CD) First Published in Australia 2008 by tribus lingua media PO Box 2924, Fitzroy Vic 3065 Copyright 2011 tribus lingua media. All rights reserved. ISBN 978-0-9805104-5-4 Disclaimer The information in this publication is provided as a guide for engineers considering migration to Victoria, to assist them in understanding the engineering opportunities which may be available and how to apply for a job in Victoria, Australia. The Victorian Government, Tribus Lingua Media, the author, and all companies and organisations whose names appear in this publication make no undertaking or representation that those companies and organisations will provide employment to any individual at any time. Rail...................................................................................................16 Electricity generation.....................................................................17 Electricity transmission and distribution....................................18 Gas distribution..............................................................................19 Water...............................................................................................20 Chapter 4 Manufacturing and services.....................................21 Automotive industry......................................................................27 Finding the smaller companies.....................................................28 Chapter 5 Engineering/consulting............................................29 Chapter 6 Construction..............................................................33 Chapter 7 Engineering occupations in demand in Victoria........... 36 Salary Ranges ............................................................................... 39 Chapter 8 Qualification recognition.........................................40 Obtaining a skill assessment as an engineer..............................40 Your engineering qualifications....................................................41 Chapter 9 Professional recognition and requirements for practice...............................................................42 Engineers Australia Membership.................................................42 National Professional Engineers Register...................................43 Occupational health and safety....................................................44 Engineering codes and standards................................................44
Working in Victoria An Engineers Guide

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Chapter 10 Australian English...................................................45 English language requirements....................................................45 Assessment of your language skills.............................................45 Chapter 11 Finding work through advertised jobs..................49 Chapter 12 Finding work through networking........................43 Networking.....................................................................................51 Being professional..........................................................................53 Mentors...........................................................................................53 TAFE courses..................................................................................54 Chapter 13 Planning...................................................................57 Your plan.........................................................................................57 Scope your ready for work checklist..........................................57 Your schedule.................................................................................58 Your budget.....................................................................................59 Link your schedule and budget.................................................... 61 Monitoring and control.................................................................62 Chapter 14 Your Victorian CV...................................................65 The basic CV...................................................................................65 Elements of engineering CVs........................................................65 You at a glance................................................................................65 Your employment experience........................................................66 Relating your work experience to Australia................................66 Chapter 15 Selection criteria......................................................73 Selection criteria matching statement..........................................73 Chapter 16 Job applications........................................................75 Cover letter checklist.....................................................................75 Chapter 17 Job interviews..........................................................77 Answering the likely questions....................................................78 Chapter 18 Resource links..........................................................84 Social networking online..............................................................84 RSS feeds........................................................................................85 Meeting places and resources.......................................................86 Australian professional associations for engineers....................86 Links for making connections in your community....................88 Links to information on Victorian cities and regional towns....89 Conclusion......................................................................................90
Introduction
Congratulations on deciding to make the move to Victoria, Australia. Working in Victoria, An Engineers Guide is a step-by-step guide for engineers who have decided to take advantage of the opportunities in Melbourne and regional Victoria. The information provided in this workbook is based on the experience of real migrants like you. It will help you navigate your way through the job seeking process in Australia, find an engineering job and settle into your new life in Victoria. All you need is a computer, internet access and commitment. We will take you through a series of suggested activities and checklists to ensure you have the best chance for a successful start to your new life in Victoria. By taking the time to read through this workbook, youll learn more about: developing a plan and a budget selecting an area in Victoria with engineering employment opportunities having your qualifications accredited by Engineers Australia preparing a CV to support your job-seeking activities. Establishing a network of professional contacts is challenging when you move to a new country. Weve listed the contact details of over 200 engineering organisations with useful weblinks to employment information for engineering professionals. Many of these organisations are based in Victorias thriving regional areas so weve also included links to information living and working in regional Victoria. Use this workbook as a step-by-step guide and take the time to complete the self-evaluation checklists and consider the key points weve highlighted throughout the workbook.
How to use this guide

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Read Chapter 1 to get an overview of Victoria and visa options available for engineers. Chapters 2-6 provide an overview of the major government and private sector industries in Victoria which employ engineers. For background information on qualifications and accreditation, read Chapters 7, 8, and 9. Chapter 10 provides information on improving your English language skills for Australia. Now that you can start some serious planning, read Chapter 13. The last step before take-off is to write your CV in a style Australian employers are used to. Read Chapter 14. So you can hit the ground running, Chapters 15 to 17 assist you to get job applications together and prepare for job interviews. Chapter 18 is your reference to support networks in Victoria.
A well planned take-off leads to a successful landing. Good luck. Ian Little FIEAust CPEng

Working in Victoria your career plan at a glance
Engineering in Victoria Engineering in Government Infrastructure and Utilities Manufacturing Engineering / Consulting Construction Qualifications accreditation Organisations & Associations Internet Searching Finding Support Networking Planning Your Victorian CV Selection Criteria The Job Application The Job Interview Resource Links
Chapter 1 Engineering in Victoria

Victorian geography
The State of Victoria is on the south-eastern corner of the Australian mainland.
Regions
The Australian Government breaks its statistics into regions and smaller areas across the nation. The map below shows the regions in the state of Victoria.
Victorian labour market

The exercises in this chapter will provide an overview of engineering in Victoria, highlighting where jobs are located. A lot of information is available from the Australian Governments Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) website: www.deewr.gov.au

Find detailed information on employment characteristics, trends, and prospects for engineers on the following DEEWR websites, Australian Jobsearch, Job Outlook and myfuture:
Regional Victoria
The Live in Victoria website has general information on the States main regional towns and cities. For a brief overview, visit Live in Victoria and follow the link to Explore Melbourne and Regional Areas. The following chapters provide you with: Information on industries and engineering companies in each region. A link to the website for each region and city/town.
Australian JobSearch
Australian JobSearch is Australias largest free online jobs website. www.jobsearch.gov.au
Many of the companies listed provide information about career and employment opportunities on their websites. On many you can register for a job alert email they will notify you if a vacancy in your field comes up which you can apply for.
Job Outlook
Job Outlook is a careers and labour market research information site. www.joboutlook.gov.au
myfuture
Australian career information and exploration service, myfuture includes education and training information. www.myfuture.edu.au
Major industries and employers of engineers

The next five chapters have information on the major government and private sector industries in Victoria which employ engineers. Chapter 2 Government. The Victorian Government is a major employer of engineers of all disciplines. Chapter 3 Infrastructure and utility industries. These statewide industries such as electricity distribution, gas, roads, water, sewerage and similar services are required in all Victorias population centres. Chapter 4 Specific local industries. These include manufacturing and its service providers, electricity generation and natural resources. Chapter 5 Consulting, engineering and project management. Many enterprises use the services of consultants and engineering, project management and construction companies to carry out part or all of their major maintenance, infrastructure and plant modifications, and the design and construction of new facilities. Chapter 6 Construction. Not every company in Victoria that employs engineers is included, but you will find descriptions of a large range of them. The engineering disciplines the different industries use will be similar to in your country of origin.
Finding smaller companies

The engineering teams in Victorian companies are often small. Major works are contracted out to other companies, such as those listed in Chapters 5 and 6. Smaller jobs are handled by local engineering contractors, which are too numerous to include here. Such contractors may be located by searching the internet, using the information provided about the major industries and their location. For example, Chapter 4 lists the brown coal-fired power station operators in the Latrobe Valley region of eastern Victoria. If you have skills associated with open cut coal mining or power generation, or the infrastructure for these industries, search for opportunities in the cities in the Latrobe Valley area: Morwell, Moe and Traralgon.

Visa Options for Engineers

There are a number of visa options available to skilled workers looking to migrate to Victoria or who wish to work in Victoria on a temporary basis. Each visa category has strict requirements. Full details are available at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) website: www.immi.gov.au Here is an overview of the key working visas and where to find more information. NOTE: migration regulations are complex and change often, so it is best to contact DIAC for up-to-date information relating to your individual situation.
GSM Visa options if you are outside Australia

Skilled Independent (Migrant) Visa (Subclass 175)
A permanent visa for people with skills in demand in the Australian labour market. Applicants are not sponsored and must pass a points test.
Skilled Sponsored (Migrant) Visa (Subclass 176)

A permanent visa for people unable to meet the Skilled Independent requirements. Applicants must be either sponsored by an eligible relative living in Australia or nominated by a participating state or territory government. Applicants must pass a points test.
General Skilled Migration

The General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is for professionals and other skilled migrants who are not sponsored by an employer and who have skills in particular occupations required in Victoria (including almost all engineering disciplines). General skilled migration is for people who: Are under 50 years of age at the time of applying for a visa. Meet the threshold English language requirement of competent English. Nominate and hold a skilled assessment for an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List at the time of lodging their application. Provide evidence of recent skilled employment in a skilled occupation or have recently completed the Australian Study requirement. The range of visa options under the GSM program includes options for skilled people applying as an independent migrant, sponsored by an eligible relative living in Australia, or nominated by a state or territory government. In addition to meeting the basic eligibility requirements you need to achieve a passmark score against the skilled migration points test. On 1 July 2011, the pass mark the total number of points needed to be eligible for a visa was set at 65 points. If you score less than 65 points, your application will be refused. For more detailed information about the points test: http://www.immi.gov.au/skilled/generalskilled-migration/points-test.htm Prospective applicants who are unable to achieve the required number of points to apply for skilled migration may want to consider their eligibility for an alternative option, such as the Employer Nomination Scheme or Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme. Before you apply for General Skilled Migration, you need to read Booklet 6: General Skilled Migration, which is available online at the publications section of the DIAC website (www. immi.gov.au). It has a wealth of information including an outline of all the requirements you need to satisfy for skilled migration, and a do-it-yourself eligibility test. You may be eligible for a number of different visa categories. Please read through the various options to ensure you choose the visa most beneficial to you and your circumstances.
Skilled Regional Sponsored (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 475)

A three-year provisional visa. Applicants must be either sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated area of Australia or nominated by a participating state or territory government. After living for two years and working for at least one year in a Specified Regional Area, applicants can apply for a permanent visa. Applicants must pass a points test.
Skilled Recognised Graduate (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 476)

An 18-month temporary visa for graduates of recognised overseas educational institutions who have skills in demand in Australia. There is no points test for this visa.
GSM Visa options if you are in Australia

Skilled Independent (Residence) Visa (Subclass 885)
A permanent visa for eligible overseas students who have obtained an Australian qualification in Australia as a result of at least two years study, and for holders of certain temporary visas with skills in demand in Australia. Applicants are not sponsored and must pass a points test.
Skilled Sponsored (Residence) Visa (Subclass 886)

A permanent visa for eligible overseas students who have obtained an Australian qualification in Australia as a result of at least two years study, and for holders of certain temporary visas with skills in demand in Australia. For applicants not able to meet the Skilled Independent requirements, who have either a relative in Australia to sponsor them or a nomination from a state or territory government.
Skilled Regional Sponsored (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 487)

A three-year provisional visa for eligible overseas students and holders of certain temporary visas. Applicants must be either sponsored by an eligible relative living in a designated area of Australia or nominated by a participating state or territory government. After living for two years and working for at least one year in a Specified Regional Area, applicants can apply for a permanent visa.
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Skilled Regional (Residence) Visa (Subclass 887)

A permanent visa for eligible provisional visa holders who have lived for at least two years and worked for at least one year in a Specified Regional Area in Australia.
Other working visas:

Working holiday Maker visa
A Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) is available if you are 18-30 years of age and hold a passport for a country or region participating with Australia in the Working Holiday program. You are also required to satisfy certain health, character and financial requirements. The Working Holiday Visa allows you to supplement the cost of your holiday through incidental employment. It is valid for 12 months from the date of first entry, regardless of whether you spend the whole time in Australia. You are permitted to leave and re-enter Australia any number of times in that period. You can work for up to six months with each employer and do up to four months of study or training. If you have completed at least three months of seasonal work in regional Australia, you can apply for an additional 12-month Working Holiday Visa. If your primary reason for travelling to Australia is to participate in the workforce, you should consider a visa designed for that purpose. For more details information about Working Holiday Maker visas: http://www.immi.gov.au/ visitors/working-holiday/417/
Skilled Graduate (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 485)

An 18-month temporary visa for overseas students who have obtained an Australian qualification in Australia as a result of at least two years study. Allows applicants who are unable to pass the points test to remain in Australia for 18 months to gain the skills and experience needed to apply for a permanent or provisional GSM visa. No points test applies.
State Sponsorship to Victoria

Victoria has a long history of welcoming professionals and tradespeople as skilled migrants.Skill shortages in many industries and sectors in Victoria allow skilled migrants to take advantage of a range of employment opportunities. The Victorian Government supports skilled migrants through free state visa sponsorship, as part of the General Skilled Migration process. Statesponsorship gives eligible applicants additional points towards DIACs General Skilled Migration points test, making it easier to obtain provisional and permanent visas. State sponsored applicants are also prioritised by DIAC. There are several state sponsored skilled visa options for people who want to live and work in Victoria: Skilled Sponsored (176) visa Skilled Sponsored (886) visa Skilled Regional Sponsored (475 or 487) visas
Other information links

Access detailed information about skilled visas that you can apply for. Apply for skilled visasponsorship from the Victorian Government (you need to register and/or login to access this information). Find out what occupations arein demand in Victoria and eligible forstatesponsorship by the Victorian Government. Read what people who have already migrated to Victoria have to say about living there. Links to downloadable publications about living and working in Victoria. Find out about support services available to help you settle into life in Victoria.
Employer Sponsorship visa options:

Victorian employers can sponsor engineering professionals for both temporary and permanent visas. To find out which engineering occupations and skills qualify for an employer sponsored visa, visit the Department of Immigration & Citizenship website at: www.immi.gov.au/skilled/ skilled-workers
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For opportunities with the Victorian Government, visit: www.careers.vic.gov.au For graduate opportunities, visit: www.graduates.vic.gov.au For more information on skills in demand in Victoria, visit: www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au
Chapter 2 Government engineering

Australia has three levels of government: Federal covering the whole of Australia. State and Territory the State of Victoria is one of the state governments. Local Victoria has 79 local government regions. Eligibility for public service positions may be subject to visa conditions.
Department of Transport
This department is responsible for major infrastructure projects and services including transport, ports, energy policy and information, and communication technology. www.transport.vic.gov.au
Major Projects Victoria

This area is responsible for delivering large scale projects for the Victorian Government. www.majorprojects.vic.gov.au
Environment Protection Authority

The EPAs offices operate on a regional basis. Each is responsible for the control and coordination of all activities relating to the discharge of waste into the environment, the generation, storage, treatment and disposal of industrial waste, and noise emission in the region. Activities include licensing, works approvals, enforcement, and consideration of planning permit referrals (referred by planning authorities). Regional offices outside greater Melbourne are in Traralgon, Wangaratta, Bendigo and Geelong. www.epa.vic.gov.au
Federal
The Commonwealth Parliament is based in Canberra, in the Australian Capital Territory. Some of its engineering functions are performed by facilities based in Victoria.
Department of Defence Defence Material Organisation

The Defence Material Organisation (DMO) is responsible for the latest technology and equipment that supports the Australian Defence Force. www.defence.gov.au/dmo
Local government
Local councils
The State of Victoria is divided into 79 local council areas. The councils maintain community infrastructure such as roads, bridges, drains, town halls, libraries, recreation facilities, parks and gardens. Councils provide a wide range of services including property, economic, human, recreational and cultural services. They also enforce state and local laws relating to land use planning, environment protection, public health, traffic, parking and animal management. Find Your Local Council is a website with links to each of these 79 local councils. The sites have contacts and useful links to information such as local regulations, demographic and general information about each Victorian council. www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au
Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

An Australian government department with a major role in Infrastructure transport, security, safety and investigations, and regional services and development of self-reliant communities including indigenous policy and local government. www.infrastructure.gov.au
State Government of Victoria

The Victorian Government provides a diverse range of services to the people of Victoria schools, hospitals, transport, parks, police, tourism, the environment and more. These services are provided through three levels of public sector organisations: The Victorian public service delivers centrally on legislation and government initiatives through departments and agencies. A range of agencies deliver statutory functions and business enterprises across the State. Local government operates autonomously to deliver municipal services to communities.
List of councils
The Municipal Association of Victoria is the peak body for local councils; their website lists jobs in local government: www.mav.asn.au
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V/Line
V/Line Passenger Pty Ltd is responsible for operating and maintaining 4,100 kilometres of rail track across Victoria and into New South Wales. V/line is the states regional public transport provider, running more than 1,400 train and 600 coach services every week.
Chapter 3 Infrastructure and utility sectors

This chapter is an overview of statewide services and the organisations providing them. The services provide engineering opportunities in operations and maintenance and in the development of new infrastructure to meet the needs of Victorias increasing population. The organisations in this sector include a variety of statutory agencies and private companies.
www.vline.com.au
Electricity generation
Victoria has vast brown coal resources in the Latrobe Valley region, 150 kilometres east of Melbourne, near the townships of Morwell, Traralgon and Moe.The coal is mined by bucket wheel dredgers and transported to power stations by extensive conveyor belt systems. Average depth of overburden is 15 metres and average coal depth is 100 metres.
AGL Energy
AGL has a diverse power generation portfolio including base, peaking and intermediate generation plants as well as renewable sources (including hydro, wind, landfill gas and biogas). AGLs Victorian power generation assets are at Somerton (gas fired), Bogong (hydro) and gas plants in the Otway Basin and East Gippsland. www.agl.com.au
Roads
VicRoads
VicRoadsmanages and develops Victoriasnetwork of major arterial roads and freeways (excluding tollways). The design and construction of new freeways and highways are carried out by contractors and consortia formed for specific projects. Local councils manage the secondary roads. www.vicroads.vic.gov.au
Ecogen Energy
Ecogen Energy Pty Ltd operates two gas-fired plants in Victoria. Newport Power Station is a 510MW intermediate load plant on the west bank of the Yarra River 6kmsouth-west of Melbourne. Jeeralang Power Station is a peaking plant in the Latrobe Valley, about 150km south-east of Melbourne, and it consists of seven combustion turbines. www.ecogeneration.com.au
Rail
VicTrack
VicTrack owns all land and infrastructure in Victoria used for public train and tram transport. It leases these assets to private transport operators. The VicTrack website has information about VicTrack services, products and strategies. Melbourne has suburban rail and tram systems. A state-wide rail system services country Victoria. www.VicTrack.com.au
Hazelwood Power Partnership

International Power Hazelwood operates an integrated brown coal mine and power station. Hazelwood Power Stations nominal capacity is 1600MW. Hazelwood Mine covers about 620 hectares and has quality mining reserves of over 600Mt enough to last for many decades. See Morwell. www.ipplc.com.au
Metro
Metro provides Melbournes train services. The train fleet covers 30 million kilometres per year servicing over 200 million customers. www.metrotrains.com.au
Loy Yang Power

Loy Yang Power owns and operates the 2200MW Loy Yang power station and the adjacent Loy Yang open cut brown coal mine. The power station is the largest in Victoria and the open cut is the largest producing brown coal mine in the southern hemisphere. See Traralgon. www.loyyangpower.com.au
Yarra trams
Yarra Trams operates the entire Melbourne tram network. The company has eight depots, 27 routes, 1,800 staff and a fleet of nearly 500 trams. In 2005-06, tram passenger trips totalled more than 150 million. www.yarratrams.com.au
IPM Australia Ltd

IPM Australia Ltd is a partnership between International Power plc and Mitsui & Co Ltd International Power. In Victoria, IPM owns and operates the Loy Yang B power station, a 1000MW brown coal-fired station in the Latrobe Valley. See Traralgon. www.ipplc.com.au
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Snowy Hydro Ltd

Snowy Hydro owns and operates the 3756MW Snowy Mountains hydro-electric scheme and the 300MW Valley Power Morwell and 320MW Laverton North gas-fired power stations, both in Victoria. www.snowyhydro.com.au
TRUenergy
The Yallourn brown coal mine and power station, in the Latrobe Valley, supplies about 22% of Victorias electricity needs and 8% nationally. Generation at Yallourn dates back to 1921. TRUenergy also operates the Iona Gas Plant which injects gas into storage reservoirs on behalf of its customers during periods of low demand.The gas is used in periods of high demand such as winter and to support gas-fired peak power generation. www.truenergy.com.au
Alcoa World Alumina Australia

Anglesea Power Station supplies about 40 per cent of the power required by Alcoas Point Henry aluminium smelter near Geelong. About 1.1 million tonnes of brown coal is mined annually at the site to feed a boiler that consumes 144 tonnes of pulverised tonnes an hour. Anglesea Power Station has a two-cylinder condensing turbine of 160MW capacity. www.alcoa.com
United Energy Distribution

United Energy Distribution owns and manages the electricity network for south-east Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula (covering 1,450 square kilometres) some 600,000 customers. The distribution area is largely urban with a small semi-rural area and contains a quarter of Victorias population. www.ue.com.au
Electricity transmission and distribution

VENCorp
VENCorp is the peak organisation in Victorias energy transmission sector. The State government-owned organisation plans and develops Victorias electricity and gas transmission networks. VENCorp also operates the gas transmission network, manages Victorias gas wholesale or spot market, provides support services for gas full retail contestability, and has primary responsibilities during major electricity and gas emergencies. VENCorp has now been taken over by Australian Energy Market Operator AEMO. www.aemo.com.au
Gas distribution
Envestra Limited
Envestras major assets are the natural gas distribution networks in Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. It also operates networks in regional Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. Envestra delivers natural gas to almost one million consumers through 20,000km of networks. www.envestra.com.au
CitiPower Pty
CitiPower, an electricity distribution company, owns and operates the network supplying about 285,000 customers in Melbournes CBD and inner suburbs. Its primary role is managing its poles and wires network. www.citipower.com.au
Multinet Group Holdings Pty Ltd

Multinet Group Holdings owns and manages the gas network serving Melbournes inner, outer-eastern and south-eastern suburbs, Yarra Valley and South Gippsland.The business has about 650,000 end use customers. www.multinetgas.com.au
SP AusNet
SP AusNet is Victorias largest utility delivering gas and electricity to millions of business and residential customers across the State. Its assets include the 6500km primary electricity transmission network and 40,000km network in the States east. www.sp-ausnet.com.au
Origin Energy Limited

Origin Energy is a leading energy provider, supplying gas and electricity to more than 1.8 million Australians. An Australian-listed company, it participates in most segments of the energy supply chain including natural gas and oil exploration and production, power generation, energy retailing and trading, and asset management services. It holds oil and gas exploration acreage offshore in Victoria and has production facilities at Lang Lang. It is also Victorias largest energy retailer, supplying natural gas, electricity and LPG. www.originenergy.com.au
Powercor Australia Ltd

Powercor Australia is Victorias largest electricity distributor, covering 150,000 square kilometres and supplying regional and rural centres in central and western Victoria, as well as Melbournes outer western suburbs. Powercor services more than 640,000 customers. The companys primary role is managing its poles and wires network. Powercor also operates non-regulated businesses in engineering and construction, telecommunications and information technology. www.powercor.com.au
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Water
All major towns have reticulated water and sewerage systems provided by water authorities in the respective regions. The authorities have websites with details of their operations, including water supply catchments, sewage removal and treatment, managing waterways and major drainage systems, conservation resources and construction projects. Some also provide links to environmental policies and programs, educational services, water and sewerage code documents, and ground water operating procedures.
Chapter 4 Manufacturing and services

This chapter details a cross-section of private and public manufacturers and engineering services supply companies in Victoria. They provide engineering opportunities in operations and maintenance. This is not a complete list. For more information on Victorian businesses and industry, see the Business Victoria website: www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au
Metropolitan water authorities

Melbourne Water City West Water Yarra Valley Water
Regional water authorities

Barwon Water Central Highlands Water Coliban Water Gippsland Water Goulburn Valley Water North East Water South East Water South Gippsland Water Wannon Water Western Water Westernport Water The following water authorities provide irrigation and services including stock and domestic water, drainage services and natural resource management activities relating to salinity, water quality and water resource management in their regions. East Gippsland Region Water Authority First Mildura Irrigation Trust Goulburn-Murray Water GWMWater (Wimmera, Mallee and Grampians) Southern Rural Water
Alcoa
Alcoa is Victorias largest exporter; nearly all the aluminium produced at Portland Aluminium is exported to Asia. The Portland Aluminium smelter produces about 356,000 tonnes a year. Point Henry is home to two of Alcoas operations: the Point Henry Smelter and Alcoa Australia Rolled Products plant. Alcoa Anglesea Power Station is brown coal-fired and powers Alcoas Point Henry aluminium smelter, near Geelong. www.alcoa.com
Amcor
Amcor is Australasias leading manufacturer of packaging products and related services. Amcor provides specialist packaging solutions to a variety of customers in the food and beverage, household, healthcare and industrial market segments. Some product examples include aluminium cans, aerosols, resealable plastic bags, corrugated boxes, folding cartons and wine bottles. www.amcor.com/businesses/australasia
Amphenol
An optic fibre cable manufacturer located in Wangaratta, Amphenol Australia designs, manufactures and markets audio connectors for the world market. The optic fibre assembly facility is considered a centre of excellence in its field in the Asia-Pacific region. www.amphenol.com.au
BAE Systems Australia

BAE Systems Australia designs, integrates and maintains military systems for Australian Defence, combining engineering and systems integration skills to lead defence technology development and support. It works to optimise land, sea and air military capabilities. www.baesystems.com
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BHP Billiton
BHP Billiton is the worlds largest diversified resources company, operating in about 25 countries. www.bhpbilliton.com
ExxonMobil
Esso Australia operates the Bass Strait offshore oil and gas fields, and associated production and processing facilities.The Bass Strait fields comprise 21 offshore platforms and installations which feed a 600km network of underwater pipelines. Longford, near Sale, is one of the most important industrial facilities in Australia, with three gas plants and a crude oil stabilisation plant. Long Island Point in Hastings, on the Mornington Peninsula, does the final-stage processing of liquified petroleum gas (LPG) and stores crude oil prior to distribution to refineries in Australia and overseas. Mobil Oil Australia operates a refinery at Altona, in Melbourne.The company also operates and/or supplies a number of product distribution terminals and bulk storage facilities, and a nationwide retail network. www.exxonmobil.com.au
Boral
A leading Australian cement producer. In Victoria, its major manufacturing centre is at Waurn Ponds, near Geelong, where it operates a dry process kiln (700,000 tonnes a year). This is supported by a packaging plant at Dandenong and a blending and distribution centre at Somerton in Melbourne. www.boral.com.au
BlueScope Steel
An international flat steel solutions company with manufacturing and marketing operations spanning Australia, New Zealand, Asia and North America. The company provides metallic coated and painted steel products for the building, construction, general manufacturing and automotive sectors. It operates a rolling mill at Hastings, on the Mornington Peninsula. www.bluescopesteel.com.au
Fosters Group
A premium global multi-beverage company delivering a total portfolio of beer, wine, spirits, cider and non-alcohol beverages. Fosters is headquartered in Melbourne, Victoria. Fosters operates three distilleries, two cideries, six breweries and 16 wineries. One of the worlds largest brewers, Fosters has brewing operations in Australia, Fiji, Vietnam, India, and China, plus wine operations in Australia, Chile, the United States, the Netherlands, France, and Germany. www.fosters.com.au
Carter Holt Harvey

Carter Holt Harvey produces an extensive range of timber-based products for internal and external, structural and decorative uses. All solid and reconstituted timber used in its products is sourced from radiata pine plantation forests through its Morwell and Myrtleford mills. www.chhwoodproducts.com.au
GlaxoSmithKline Australia
GlaxoSmithKline Australia (GSKA) is a world-leading, research-based pharmaceutical company. In Victoria, it operates production facilities at Boronia in Melbourne and Port Fairy in western Victoria. www.gsk.com.au
Energy Matters
Energy Matters supplies Australia and the Pacific with solar power and wind energy, selling solar panels, wind turbines, inverters, batteries and more. It has free online tools for designing renewable energy systems using global climate data. www.energymatters.com.au
Honeywell
Honeywell Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Honeywell International, a diversified technology and manufacturing leader serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. www51.honeywell.com/pacific
Emerson Process Management

Emerson Process Management says it is regarded as the worlds number one process control organisation. It manufactures, installs and services leading technology brands such as Rosemount and MicroMotion. www.emersonprocess.com/australia
Ericsson Australia
Ericsson, headquartered in Melbourne, is a leading provider of end-to-end communications across the Oceania region, from traditional fixed line telephone services to internet services and mobile networks. Many of the Asia-Pacifics biggest telecommunications carriers use its hardware, software and technical services. www.ericsson.com/au
IBM Australia
The University of Ballarat and IBM Australia will construct a $10.8 million IT Services Centre at the University of Ballarat Technology Park. Currently IBM employs about 800 people in Ballarat. IBM is an important anchor tenant of the universitys technology park and it has attracted additional technology-based businesses to Ballarat. www.ibm.com/au
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Incitec Pivot
A leading international chemicals company with nitrogen-based manufacturing at its core. It operates two superphosphate plants in Victoria: at Geelong, with capacity to manufacture 450,000 tonnes a year; and Portland, with capacity of 250,000 tonnes a year. www.incitecpivot.com.au
Olex
Australias largest power cable manufacturer, providing a full range of general purpose fixed and flexible cables as well as special purpose cables. Olex also provides specialist technical services, cable design and other value-added services. The main manufacturing and product development centre is at Tottenham, Melbourne, and it has a manufacturing facility at Lilydale, Melbourne. www.olex.com.au
LyondellBasell
LyondellBasell group, operates Australias only polypropylrne plant plant at Geelong, producing 130,000 tonnes of homopolymer PP annually for a wide range of customer applications. www.lyondellbasell.com/WorldWideLocations/Australia
OneSteel
OneSteel manufactures and distributes structural, rail, rod, merchant bar, cold finished bar, chrome-plated bar, reinforcing, wire, tube, pipes, fittings, valves and actuation, rail wheels and axles, lite steel beam, grinding media and recycled metals. Its products are used in construction, manufacturing, housing, mining and agriculture. It has manufacturing facilities at Somerton on the Mornington Peninsula and Geelong. www.onesteel.com
Murray Goulburn Co-operative

The largest milk processor in Australia and the nations largest exporter of processed food. With eight plants throughout Victoria, Murray Goulburn processes over 35% of the nations milk supply into products sold on the domestic and export markets. www.mgc.com.au
Optus
Optus is an Australian leader in integrated telecommunications, delivering cutting-edge communications, information technology and entertainment services. In 2001 SingTel became Optus parent company. Optus is expanding its nationwide mobile network coverage to reach 98 per cent of the population by December 2009. www.optus.com.au
Maersk Australia Pty Ltd

Maersk Line has grown into one of Australias leading shipping lines. It has seven separate fixed-day services from Australia and is involved in shipping, logistics, and oil and gas exploration, production and retailing. www.maersk.com
Nestl
Nestl Oceania, a wholly owned subsidiary of Swiss-based Nestl S.A., has its regional head office in Sydney. The companys production is spread out, providing employment in manufacturing and distribution across regional communities including: Echuca yogurt Tongala (Kyabram) liquid milks Pakenham (Melbourne) frozen foods such as Lean Cuisine Broadford (Seymour) Allens lollies Wahgunyah (Wangaratta) Uncle Tobys www.nestle.com.au
Orica
A major supplier and traderof chemicals, services and technology to the water treatment, mining chemical and industrial chemical markets; commercial explosives and initiating systems to the mining, quarrying and construction industries; and lawn and garden care products. It is a global leader in specialist chemical products for underground mining and civil engineering. www.orica.com.au
Paperlinx
Maryvale Mill, near Morwell in Gippsland, is Australias largest integrated pulp and paper operation. Paperlinx manufactures 538,000 tonnes of communication and packaging paper a year. www.paperlinx.com.au
NHP Electrical Engineering Products Pty Ltd

A specialist in industrial switchgear and automation, bringing together leading products, systems and solutions. www.nhp.com.au
Qantas
Qantas is Australias national airline. It has purpose-built hangar and workshop facilities at Melbourne International Airport. www.qantas.com.au
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Raytheon
A mission systems integrator providing solutions for sea, land, air and office environments. Customers include the Australian Defence Force. www.raytheon.com.au
Thompson Kelly & Lewis

Flowserve Pump Division (TKL), a leading Australian manufacturer of centrifugal pumps and steel castings, is based in Castlemaine, near Bendigo. TKL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Flowserve Corporation, one of the worlds leading providers of pumps and flow management services. www.tkl.com.au
Rockwell Automation
A leading supplier of automation and industrial control products and services. It employs engineers to help customers implement automation and drive systems, as well as for engineering, manufacturing and project management. www.rockwellautomation.com.au
Uecomm Pty Ltd

Australias leading Metro Ethernet provider, delivering solutions to meet the high-speed data needs of businesses. www.uecomm.com.au
Schneider Electric (Australia)

Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management, offers integrated solutions for making energy safe, reliable, efficient and productive in the energyand infrastructure industries, data centresand networks, buildings and residential markets. www.schneider-electric.com.au
Wilson Transformer Company Pty Ltd

Its transformers up to 250 MVA are produced in two plants, in Wodonga and Glen Waverley, Melbourne. www.wtc.com.au
Shell
The major global energy organisation employs about 3,000 people in Australia. The downstream business manufactures petroleum products, supplying 25% of Australias petroleum requirements. Shell trades with more than 45,000 customers throughout the country. Shell has a large refinery in Geelong, and employs over 3,000 people nationwide. www.shell.com
Automotive industry
Melbourne is the centre of Australias well-developed automotive industry, with a cluster of key assemblers, component companies, design houses, toolmakers and other services providers. Employment opportunities exist in design, engineering, materials applications and manufacturing of innovative metals, plastics, electronic and mechanical products. Here are some of the major companies operatingin the automotive industry in Victoria: Ford Motor Company GM Holden Toyota Motor Corporation EDAG Australia Autoliv Australia Iveco Trucks Air International Thermal Futuris Automotive Interiors Mahle Engine Automotive Components Australia Robert Bosch
Siemens Australia
Part of the global Siemens group of companies, it has its headquarters in Melbourne. It specialises in the areas of water, energy, environment, healthcare, productivity, mobility, safety and security. www.siemens.com.au
Telstra
Telstra is a national communications company providing integrated telecommunications experience across fixed-line and mobile phones, broadband internet and pay TV services. IT and engineering professionals work in the planning, design, construction and operation of Australias domestic and international telecommunications networks, large-scale systems and other technology solutions. www.telstra.com.au
Thales Australia
Thales Australia provides systems, products and services in the defence, security and civil markets. It has strong affiliations with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). In Victoria, it has facilities in Benalla, Bendigo and Mulwala. www.thalesgroup.com
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Finding the smaller companies

The Victorian Department of Transports website lists the construction companies and consultants that service the department. It includes a search facility, brief details of the companies categories of services, their addresses and web links. www.transport.vic.gov.au Search for the construction suppliers register/Pre-qualified consultants.
Chapter 5 Engineering/consulting
This chapter outlines a cross-section of private and public companies that provide engineering and engineering consultancy services. The companies offer a wide range of engineering opportunities in consulting, design and project management. They range from specialist, single-discipline businesses in a single industry to multidiscipline companies with worldwide operations over a range of industry sectors.
AECOM
AECOM is a global provider of professional technical and management support services to a broad range of markets, including transportation, facilities, environmental, energy, water and government. www.aecom.com
Aurecon
Aurecon provides engineering, management and specialist technical services to government and private sector clients. www.aurecongroup.com
Aker Solutions Australia Pty Ltd

A leading global provider of engineering and construction services, technology products and integrated solutions, serving industries including oil and gas, refining and chemicals, mining and metals, andpower generation. www.akersolutions.com
Arup
Arup provides design, planning and corporate advisory services as engineers to the building and infrastructure sectors. It also offers a broad spectrum of consulting services. www.arup.com.au
Beca Pty Ltd

An international employee-owned engineering and related services consultancy group. Its services cover engineering, planning, project management, architecture, GIS and surveying, cost estimating, asset management and valuations. It integrates many disciplines, working in a wide range of industries and sectors. www.beca.com
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Conneq
A specialist contractor with expertise in asset management, design engineering, process technologies, project management, construction contracting, facilities management, and operations and maintenance services. www.conneq.com.au
Meinhardt Australia
A multidisciplinary engineering firm offering a full range of engineering/design, infrastructure and project management services across a range of sectors. www.meinhardt.com.au
Norman Disney & Young CSIRO

The CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) is Australias national science agency, and one of the largest and most diverse research agencies in the world. It manages three national research facilities and has a number of facilities across Victoria including the Aspendale Laboratories which undertakes research into the atmospheric environment. www.csiro.au A leading engineering consultancy servicing a broad range of market sectors in the building, technology, industrial, resource, environmental and infrastructure industries. www.ndy.com
Parsons Brinkerhoff
Parsons Brinkerhoff manages major infrastructure and services projects in the transport, environmental, mining and water sectors in Australia. It includes sectors such as metal products; non-metallic mineral products; petroleum, coal, chemical and associated products; food and beverage; wood and paper products; machinery and equipment; and telecommunications. They have offices across Australia. www.pb.com.au
GHD Pty Ltd

An international professional services company serving the global market sectors of infrastructure, mining and industry, defence, property and buildings, and the environment. www.ghd.com.au
Sinclair Knight Merz

A leading engineering, sciences and project delivery firm serving public and private energy sector clients, providing technical consulting, engineering design and management of project development. www.skmconsulting.com
Hatch
A global engineering consulting firm supplying process and business consulting, IT, engineering, and project and construction management to the mining, metallurgical, manufacturing, energy and infrastructure industries. It has offices in Melbourne and Geelong. www.hatch.com.au
SKM-S2F
The architectural and engineering firm S2F has joined forces with leading projects firm Sinclair Knight Merz. The combination of SKMs and S2Fs skills and capability via a merger provide a broader architectural and engineering service with S2Fs skills and experience in pharmaceuticals and research adding to SKMs presence in the health and defence sectors.rs. www.s2f.com.au
GTA Consultants
A transportation consultant working in a range of areas, including strategic policy and planning, design and implementation. Clients include state and local governments, transport authorities, architects, urban planners, lawyers, developers, transport operators, and other private and public sector companies undergoing change and growth. www.gta.com.au
Uhde Shedden
An engineering company in the oil and gas, refining and chemical/petrochemical industries. Through its offices in Australia and Thailand, it service customers in the oil refining, oil and gas processing, petrochemical, chemical, mineral processing, alternative fuel and clean coal sectors. www.uhdeshedden.com
Hyder Consulting
A leading engineering firm providing management advisory, engineering and environmental consultancy services for infrastructure and construction projects worldwide. www.hyderconsulting.com
Kempe Engineering Services Australia

Kempe provides maintenance and asset services in the aluminium industry. This includes equipment and systems for greenfield and brownfield aluminium smelter projects, technology, equipment supply and complete turnkey packages. Kempe has offices in Geelong, Portland, Warrnambool and Morwell. www.kempe.com.au
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URS Australia Pty Ltd

One of the worlds largest engineering design services firms, providing environmental and engineering expertise to national, regional and local governments as well as private clients in the chemical and pharmaceutical, forestry, agriculture, manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, air transportation, property development, surface transportation, legal, water resources, telecommunications, waste, international development, energy, marine and coastal, and defence industries. www.ap.urscorp.com
Chapter 6 Construction
This chapter provides details on a cross-section of private and public construction companies, which offer a wide range of engineering opportunities in design, project management and construction supervision. The companies include building construction, civil and structural contractors, roads and highway construction, and mechanical and electrical construction. As the work in this industry is on a contract basis, the location and availability of work is dependant on particular developments.
Wood & Grieve Engineers

A national consulting firm providing civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, fire and ESD engineering services to private industry and government clients throughout Australia. It services the land development, property, infrastructure, commercial, industrial, retail and building industries. www.wge.com.au
WorleyParsons
Australias largest engineering consultancy, providing professional services to the hydrocarbons, minerals and metals, infrastructure and power market sectors. It employs in almost all disciplines of engineering, design, project management, procurement and construction management, particularly with experience in mining and minerals processing, oil and gas, and infrastructure (ports, rail, water and the power industry, including power plants, transmission and distribution systems). WorleyParsons has offices in Spotswood, Melbourne, and Geelong. www.worleyparsons.com
Abigroup
One of Australias largest and most experienced engineering contractors. It has undertaken some of the most significant and prominent road, rail, industrial and infrastructure projects as well as works in water, dams, mining and ports. www.abigroup.com.au
Baulderstone Hornibrook
A provider of comprehensive civil engineering and building services in Australia.Its capabilities include: construct only; design and construct; design, construct and maintain; and build, own, operate, and transfer and maintain. www.baulderstone.com.au
WSP Lincolne Scott

An international building services consultancy providing consulting and building services engineering design solutions to the building, construction and property markets. It has expertise in the principles of green building design, whether for new construction or existing properties and infrastructure. www.wspgroup.com
Grocon
Australias largest private development and construction company, Grocon offers jobs in central office administration, onsite labouring, and engineering and architectural work. Project managers are based at the companys different site offices. www.grocon.com.au
John Holland Pty Ltd

One of Australias leading construction contractors, John Holland has completed numerous civil, mechanical engineering and building projects. John Holland is also a major contracting service provider specialising in rail, telecommunications, power distribution systems, power line asset inspection, facilities management and maintenance services. Its third business stream is project development. It sponsors and constructs major public and private infrastructure projects. www.johnholland.com.au
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Leighton Contractors
Leighton operates across all stages of the project and infrastructure lifecycle, providing standalone or integrated solutions. Projects include delivering and financing a major toll road, operating one of Australias largest mines, designing a specialist blood plasma facility, creating telecommunications networks, and fitting out a new retail centre. www.leightoncontractors.com.au
United Group Infrastructure

One of Australias largest engineering services operations, involved in the water, power, transport, communications and defence sectors. Services include design and construction, facility management, shutdown and industrial maintenance, engineering, fabrication, and program and project management. United Group Infrastructure delivers solutions in all power disciplines including transmission, distribution and generation. www.ugllimited.com
Lend Lease
One of the worlds leading project management and construction services companies, with operations in more than 30 countries. Its project management and construction business, Bovis Lend Lease, offers expertise in project and construction management and design-build services. www.lendlease.com.au
Multiplex
Brookfield Multiplex operations can be found throughout Australasia. Operations encompass the four stages of the property life cycle: development, construction, facilities management and funds management. It also provides a wide variety of opportunities with both an operational and corporate focus. www.brookfieldmultiplex. com
Silcar Pty Ltd

A purpose-built outsourcing maintenance organisation providing the power industry with skilled resources and management for its mechanical and electrical maintenance services. Silcar is working with clients involved in heavy and light manufacturing, metals processing, pulp and paper, telecom energy systems, power protection and distribution, mining, automotive and maintaining thermal power stations (Morwell). www.silcar.com.au
Transfield Services
A leading international provider of operations, maintenance, asset management and project management services. It operates in Australia across industries including mining and processing, hydrocarbons, roads, rail and public transport, water, power, telecommunications, facilities management and defence. www.transfieldservices.com
Theiss
A leading mining, construction and services contractor with diverse operations throughout Australia, Thiess delivers complex civil infrastructure projects in mining, civil, building, process and services. www.thiess.com.au
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Distribution by industry and discipline

The distribution of engineers employed in Victoria by discipline or specialisation is similar to the breakdown across Australia. In the main areas of engineering employment in Victoria, slightly more are in engineering and related technologies (about 46%) and slightly less in electrical and electronic engineering (about 20%), according to Engineers Australias analysis of the 2006 Census figures. Other significant proportions are civil (8%), mechanical and industrial (8%), and process and resources (6%). In distribution by industry, manufacturing employs about one in four engineers in Victoria compared to about one in five nationally. One-fifth of Victorian engineers are in professional, scientific and technical services. The next largest sectors are public administration and safety, construction, and wholesale trade (all at about 6.5%). Mining, at about 1%, is significantly lower than the national figure of 4-5%. The most recent (2011) Census figures are yet to be collated and analysed.
Chapter 7 Engineering occupations in demand in Victoria

Engineers feature prominently in the list of professional skills in short supply in Victoria. While there may be vacancies for experienced engineers in other fields as well, the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) has identified these specific areas of shortage: Civil with specific experience in construction, earthworks and the water industries Electrical with specific experience, particularly in the power and rail industries Transport with specific experience in construction, earthworks and the water industries In manufacturing, the Victorian Governments Manufacturing and Engineering Skills Advisory Board has identified these areas of critical shortage: Civil engineering draftsperson Aircraft maintenance engineers mechanical (especially in regional centres), avionics and structural The government agency Skills Victoria (www.skills.vic.gov.au) reports that strong demand for engineering professionals in the building and construction industry in recent years has decreased only marginally due to the general economic downturn. It says demand is for about 1,400 a year, with a gradual decline in numbers forecast over the next five years. Employment of electrical engineers has nearly doubled in Victoria in the last 10 years. About 2,500 more a year are required and demand is expected to hold steady in the next few years.
Employment growth
Government figures show that the most marked change in employment growth in Victoria in 2010 was in construction (up 26,500). Manufacturings proportion of total employment has been gradually declining for some years, but it is still a major employer and recorded an increase of 8,600 jobs in 2010. In electricity, gas, water and waste services, 3,700 more jobs were created. The professional, scientific and technical services sector was static.
Proportion born overseas

About 45% of engineers in Victoria were born overseas (similar to the national figure), according to the 2006 Census. Almost 27% of the overseas-born engineers were relatively recent arrivals, having come to Australia between 2000 and 2006.
Forecasts for engineering in Victoria

Uncertainty in financial markets from the continuation of the global economic downturn has thrown a spanner into long-term forecasts for many industries. Australia has weathered the downturn comparatively well particularly the mining and resources sector, driven by demand from China. However, the fact that Australians are tending to save more and spend less affects consumer industries such as manufacturing and retail. The mining boom in Australias mining-rich states is expected to continue to contribute to shortages of engineers and engineering-related workers in other industries in Victoria, such as manufacturing, in the medium to long term.
Regional vacancies
Shortages of engineers apply to the regional centres as well as Melbourne. For example, Greater Shepparton, two hours drive from Melbourne, is a growing centre which has been keen to attract new migrants to fill engineering positions for a number of years. Most employers facing skills shortages in regional areas are seeking qualified employees with at least five years experience in their skilled occupation.
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Building and construction

Skills Victoria (www.skills.vic.gov.au/skills-and-jobs-outlook) says employment prospects in the building and construction industry have been affected by the downturn and are currently average. However, partly due to strong housing demand, they have the capacity to improve in the longer term if global financial markets improve.
Mining
The mining industry in Victoria is small when compared to some other states. However, MESAB says it does provide opportunities in areas such as coal, oil and gas, and base metals and minerals. Developments in the energy sector will be important for Victorian mining. The waters between Victoria and Tasmania, including the Otway and Gippsland basins, contain 80% of eastern Australias gas reserves and, potentially, a significant amount of undiscovered reserves. Victoria will also benefit from the production of gas from Tasmanian-administered waters through Victorian facilities, says MESAB. Additionally, the Victorian Governments Energy for the Regions program will extend the natural gas network to East Gippsland, and Central and Northern Victoria. Victoria has significant deposits of brown coal.However, production of brown coal is riskier over the longer term as developments in future climate change policies are likely to lead to a higher carbon price making brown coal a less attractive source of energy. Victoria also has deposits of nickel and copper, among other base metals. Asian economies are expected to have a healthy appetite for these resources, leading to a recovery in employment numbers.
Electricity, gas and water services

Skills Victoria says employment prospects in the electricity, gas and water industry are above average. Because the industry provides essential services and utilities to businesses and communities, activity and employment are buffered from theeconomic downturn. In the next five years, employment of engineering managers and engineering tradespersons is expected to increase more than most other occupations in the industry.
Manufacturing
The medium-term trend for the manufacturing and engineering industry points to contraction in many of its sectors, says Victorias Manufacturing and Engineering Skills Advisory Board (MESAB).Some possible exceptions include pharmaceuticals and biotechnology given the large investment in research and development relevant there. MESAB makes these observations on what it regards as the key change drivers in manufacturing: Research and development expenditure in progressively upgrading the level of technology used in the sector.In turn, demand for workers with advanced skills, such as in computer aided design and related functions, have increased. The automotive sector is an important driver of technological change and is at the forefront of new tooling. These technologies can often take around five years to flow through to small and medium enterprises. New technologies and materials up-skilling across many manufacturing and engineering sectors. Some of the specific technical skills related to new technologies are relatively niche. An important element of this change driver is the need to utilise new processes. Lean manufacturing continues to emerge as a preferred method of business operation, particularly when it incorporates components of sustainability as well as efficiency. Lean manufacturing also aids productivity and can assist domestic producers trying to complete in international markets. There is a growing industry desire for employees with skills and knowledge in lean manufacturing to ensure lean innovations can emanate from all levels of the workforce. Communications technologies Enhanced communication technologies have enabled new and smaller firms to compete in manufacturing industries, including at the international level. By facilitating the transfer of designs and data, enhanced communication technologies allow tasks such as digital prototyping to be performed by firms anywhere in the world. High value of the Australian dollar The exchange rate is eroding the competitive position of firms and inducing businesses to invest in increasingly sophisticated technologies and production techniques as a means to stave off competition from abroad.
Salary ranges
Salaries for engineers are generally high but vary greatly according to grade, experience, discipline, industry, location and other factors. In Victoria, as elsewhere, they have been increasing at a much faster rate than the national average for all job types for almost a decade pushed up by widespread skill shortages and increased demand for their expertise, particularly in the mining and infrastructure sectors. In mid-2011, average full-time weekly salaries for engineers were in the $1,400-$1,800 range (before tax), according to Australian government figures for the whole nation. Chemical/ materials engineers and mining engineers were earning more on average: $2,000-$2,200 a week. See: www.joboutlook.gov.au
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Application to Engineers Australia Professional Engineer Australian Qualification Washington Accord Qualification Engineering Technologist Sydney Accord Non-Recognised Qualification
Chapter 8 Qualification recognition

As a skilled migrant, your starting point is to obtain recognition of your qualifications in Australia. Engineers Australia is the skill assessing authority for engineering qualifications, for the purposes of migration. Engineers Australia has a series of international accords, recognising qualifications from institutions in some countries. If your qualifications are not already accredited by Engineers Australia or a recognised body under one of the accords, you can demonstrate equivalence of your qualifications by completion of a competency demonstration a report which provides evidence of your skills and experience as an engineer.
Accreditation Check
Competency Demonstration Report
Can make assessment
Cannot make assessment
Can make assessment
Cannot make assessment
Obtaining a skill assessment as an engineer

The following information outlines the process that you will need to undertake in order to obtain a skill assessment as an engineer. The first thing you need to do is download a key piece of information from the Engineers Australia website, the Migration Skills Assessment Kit. The following flowchart outlines this process:
Outcome
Outcome
Your engineering qualifications

The first step in recognition of engineering qualifications and experience is known as Stage One Competency. This is the basic educational qualification to practice as a professional engineer a four-year university course equivalent to an Australian university engineering degree. Note that Engineers Australia will assess only your engineering qualifications in this process. Any other qualifications such as management qualifications will not be relevant to your skill assessment.
If your qualifications are not accredited by Engineers Australia, or under the Sydney or Washington Accord, you are able to submit Competency Demonstration Reports (CDR) to apply for recognition. Details available from the Engineers Australia website.
Exercise
What is your level of engineering qualification recognition? Professional engineer (equivalent to four-year Australian degree) Engineering technologist (three years post-secondary) Engineering associate (three years post-secondary) How will you apply for recognition of your engineering qualification with Engineers Australia? Via the Washington/Sydney Accords Competency demonstration reports
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Colleges of Engineers Australia Membership

Biomedical, chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, structural, environmental, information telecommunications and electronics (IT&E) engineering.
Chapter 9 Professional recognition and requirements for practice

You do not need to be registered to practice as an engineer in Victoria unless you will be working in the building industry and approving designs. To do this you must be a Registered Building Practitioner. Although registration is not always mandatory, employers may consider whether you are registered as part of a recruitment process. There are four types of professional recognition in Australia: Membership of Engineers Australia (MIEAust) Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) a membership status of Engineers Australia National Professional Engineers Register (NPER) registration is available for applicants who meet the standard for Chartered Engineers Registered Building Practitioner (RBP) administered by the Building Commission of Victoria
National Professional Engineers Register

You will need to meet the criteria for Chartered status to be eligible for the NPER. Requirements for registration include: A course equivalent to an Australian university engineering degree Three years experience Continuous learning Meet Stage T wo competencies.
General areas of practice

Aerospace; biomedical; building services; chemical; civil; electrical; environmental; management; mechanical; structural; naval architecture; information, telecommunications and electronics engineering.
Specific areas of practice

Pressure equipment design verifier; subdivisional geotechnics; fire safety; heritage and conservation engineering; and in-service inspectors of amusement rides and devices, electrical equipment in hazardous areas, and landslide risk management. For information, see: www.nerb.org.au.
Engineers Australia Membership

There are five membership statuses for Engineers Australia; your eligibility for membership depends upon your level of qualifications and experience: Student (StudIEAust) Graduate (GradIEAust) Member (MIEAust) Fellow (FIEAust) Chartered status (CPEng) For information on membership, see: www.engineersaustralia.org.au.
Licensing of aircraft maintenance engineers

Licensing for aircraft maintenance engineers is the responsibility of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). A new approach to licensing aircraft maintenance engineers in Australia has been introduced as Part 66 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998. Part 66 is among a suite of new regulations for aircraft maintenance which commenced on 27 June 2011. The new system is based on the A, B1, B2 and C categories and type ratings used by the European Aviation Safety Agency. Aircraft maintenance licensing in Australia is the responsibility of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). For full and up to date information, visit www.casa.gov.au
Aerospace non-destructive testing

The National Aerospace Non-Destructive Testing Board (NANDTB) was established to satisfy the requirements of Australian Standard AS 3669 which the Civil Aviation Safety Authority uses as the standard for qualification and approval of persons performing non-destructive testing (NDT) on aircraft in Australia. The 2006 version is the same as EN 4179 (European) and NAS 410 (American), which effectively results in a uniformity with the rest of the world. For more information about complying with Australian NDT requirements, see the NANDTB and Australian Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (AINDT) websites: www.ndtboard.com www.aindt.com.au
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For information on certification and recognition structures in other aircraft and aerospacerelated occupations, contact the Civil Aviation Safety Authority: www.casa.gov.au
Occupational health and safety

Worksafe Victoria
Most of the workplace health and safety laws are state government responsibilities. The Victorian Governments Worksafe Victoria website provides a wide range of literature and assistance. You will need to familiarise yourself with the Victorian requirements for workplace health and safety to work in Victoria.
www.workcover.vic.gov.au
Chapter 10 Australian English

Victorian employers place high importance on workplace safety. As an engineer you are expected to have a strong commitment to safety. All business in Australia is carried out in English. Poor English language skills may make obtaining work as an engineer in Victoria more difficult for migrants from non-Englishspeaking countries. Critically assess your current level of English. Australians speak the style of English from England, not America. Listen to and copy from English or Australian speakers rather than Americans.
Engineering codes and standards

Standards Australia (SAI Global)
The SAI Global website provides access to Australian and international standards and technical information, and legislation. Standards can be purchased online from SAI Global. It also offers specialist CD packs for specific areas of engineering. These include all the standards relevant to the discipline area. www.saiglobal.com SAI Global also runs training courses. Those of interest to engineers include hazardous areas, quality and risk management.
English language requirements

If English is not your native language, you will need to do an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test to demonstrate your competency, as part of your migration application. Some universities have courses and conversation groups to help prepare for IELTS testing. Engineers Australia requirements include evidence of your English language competency as part of the skill assessment process. You must achieve an IELTS result of at least 6.0 in each band, to meet Engineers Australias requirements. www.ielts.org Note: Victorian State Sponsorship requires that all Building and Engineering Professionals must have a minimum of two years experience and IELTS score of 7.0 or above in each band.
Exercise:
If you have done an IELTS test, what is your level of English? If not, find out where you can do an IELTS test. Testing Institution Contact Details
Assessment of your language skills

If English is your native language go to the next chapter If you have achieved an IELTS result of 7 or better go to the next chapter, and work on your Australian English If you have achieved an IELTS result of 6 read on, you will need to concentrate on Australian English
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If you have achieved an IELTS result of 5 or below read on; you will need to do some work to improve your English to meet the migration requirements and be ready for work as an engineer If you have not yet done an IELTS test, you can do an informal test using one of the practice papers on the IELTS website . If you can, get a native English speaker to cross-check your evaluation.
Podcasts, vodcasts and streaming over the internet The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has a wide range of audio, video and multimedia programs accessible from its website. This includes streaming of Australian radio programs. These provide programs in English, as spoken by Australians. www.abc.net.au
Exercise:
General English give yourself a mark out of 10: Reading Writing Speaking general conversation Understanding conversations Technical English give yourself a mark out of 10: Reading Writing Speaking Understanding technical conversations When assessing your speaking, critically assess how well native English speakers understand you. Are you being asked to repeat things you have said, or to write things down? These are signs they do not understand you. It is not enough for you to be able to speak fluently; Australians must be able to understand what you are saying. If you speak fluently, but Australians dont understand you, you may need to speak more slowly.
Australia Network
Australia Network is an international television channel of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. It offers a rich and diverse range of information and general programming. You can catch the latest regional news, update your English language skills and tune in to worldclass international documentaries, lifestyle programs and top-quality dramas never before seen in the region. www.australianetwork.com/learnenglish Doing courses will not improve your English quickly if you do not practice. If you have IELTS 5 competency or below, you will probably need more general radio and website English broadcasts to help build your listening comprehension. As this improves, you can move on to more technical sites.
Exercise:
List five internet sites that provide spoken material. Select some from general news and some for your discipline/industry. Podcast site Title
Australian technical literature

Reading Standards Australia is an excellent way to become familiar with the technical language used in Australia, and the trends in developing standards.
Improving your English

Now you have assessed your competence, you can make a plan for improvement. Based on your assessment above, use the following prompts to put together a plan to improve your general and technical English. Activities to consider: Joining or forming a conversation group Speaking English with your family (they need to speak English too!) Formal classes Teaching yourself with the help of books, tapes and other aids Newspapers and magazines Technical magazines Standards in English Television Radio
Exercise:
List the five most important Australian engineering standards for your discipline. Standard number Title
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English courses
Some universities and TAFEs (Technical and Further Education) institutes have courses and conversation groups to help prepare for IELTS testing. See the IELTS website for these. You will find English courses and tuition specifically for migrants are widely available through universities, TAFEs, migrant resource centres (MRCs) and private organisations.
Exercise:
Prepare a training plan to improve/practice English. Have a mix of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Institute Course name Activity Day/time
Chapter 11 Finding work through advertised jobs
Specific industry and engineering groups

Information from industry and engineering groups will help you gain an understanding of your industry practices and potential employers, to help you find a job and develop your engineering career.
Exercise:
A practice plan
Practice, through daily use, is the most important way to improve your English. Find ten organisations in your discipline and/or industry area which provide useful information and names of companies which are potential employers. Organisation Site address Member or employer group
Exercise:
Prepare a timetable of daily activities to improve/practice English. Have a mix of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Day Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Look for the best professional organisation(s) to join to develop your engineering networks. Do your homework to make sure you are joining an organisation that is right for you and matches your professional experience. Time Activity Day/time
Finding small businesses

Small business enterprises provide employment opportunities for engineers. To find these in the sectors and regions you are searching requires more intensive searching skills. You will need to search in general sites. This includes sites such as: Business directories Chambers of business, commerce or manufacturers Austrade directory
Vary your search technique dont start at the same point each day and walk the same path. If what you are doing is not working, try something new.
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The Yellow Pages The National Library of Australia website (www.nla.gov.au) is an excellent guide to business directories and regional organisations. Go to these sites to find companies and organisations of interest. Also be on the lookout for additional search words as you scan through these sites. Other sites to look for are specialist areas of the industry sector, branch of engineering and region you are interested in. These include: Specialist engineering sites Sites servicing specific industries Regional sites. Eighty per cent of engineering jobs in Victoria are not advertised. Instead, employers recruit through networking. This is known as the hidden job market employment opportunities that are not advertised, which you can access by networking with other engineers. In this chapter we take you through the steps to building a network in Victoria.
Chapter 12 Finding work through networking
Advertised jobs
Employers in Victoria may place job advertisements in metropolitan, regional and national print media as well as in the electronic media. T he two metropolitan daily newspapers in
Melbourne publish the most comprehensive range of advertisements and related employment and careers information on Saturdays, although both also carry job advertisements throughout the week.
Networking
Exercise:
Create a database of all your networking contacts, including friends and family. Ask the people in your database for possible referrals in Australia. (see section on social networking). Dont rely on your memory of people it will let you down when you need it most. People with good memories take good notes.
Employment websites publish new job advertisements daily. You can also take advantage of the service offered by many to email you job alerts based on criteria you have chosen, such as industry sectors and locations or to include your CV in a database that can be searched by potential employers. Many organisations include information about vacant positions on their own corporate web sites or career site. For links to the main Victorian newspapers and general job search websites, see: www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au
Exercise:
From the organisations you identified at the end of Chapter 3, look at how these are structured. Many have special interest groups. Also look at their calendars of upcoming events. Select the organisation, interest group and types of activities you are interested in. List them below.
Recruitment agencies
Many jobs are advertised by recruitment agencies on behalf of employers. You can search online for agencies which recruit in your area of expertise. The Recruitment and consulting Services Association (RCSA) is one of the peak employment services industry associations. Their website lists member recruitment agencies, and you can search by industry and location to identify agencies that might assist you to find the right job for you. www.rcsa.com.au
There may be a number of organisations of interest to you. You can attend most functions as a visitor. This will allow you to attend different organisations without having to pay a membership fee to each.
Organisation
Interest group
Activity
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A networking script
When networking, the questions you should be asking are to find information about the person and their company, or other companies they may have worked for or know about. You do this so you can work out what you have to offer them. You have engineering skills the employers want.
Ask open questions. These are questions that cannot be answered with a single word answer, such as yes or no. Open questions start with words like how, why, what. Networking is building a relationship. This requires give and take. The more you share with others, the more they will share with you.
Being professional
Employers and your fellow engineers expect you will act with honesty, good faith, integrity and dignity. Engineers Australia has a code of ethics covering the expectations for behaviour of professional engineers.
Exercise:
Go to the Engineers Australia website to view the code of ethics. Summarise the key points in the code of ethics and tenets.
Exercise:
Prepare your own script. Use your language phrases and words you are comfortable with. Have questions related to your discipline, your special interests, and the industries and companies/organisations you are interested in. Example: Tell me about your organisation?
Example: I am a mechanical engineer and have been working in rail what are the major projects in Victoria at the moment? Example: I am interested in large scale building projects, but dont know much about the industry in Victoria, could you tell me about what you do?
Exercise:
Have business cards printed. Before you have a job, these can include details such as your name, phone number and email, and area of specialisation. Giving these out at networking functions ensures people have your name and contact details. It will also allow you to collect business cards from people you meet. At functions, have your cards in a pocket where you can get them out easily.
If you are unsure of the dress code when attending a function or meeting, wear a suit. It is not a problem to stand out as the best dressed person in the room.
Mentors
A mentor will help you to understand the engineering industry in Victoria, and assist you in finding work. You dont know what you dont know and a mentor can help you understand more about engineering in Victoria. There are a number of ways to make contact with someone who may be interested in being a mentor. These include: Through an industry association Through your personal and professional contacts in Australia Through undertaking an English language or up-skilling course in Victoria By attending engineering networking events. For more information on mentoring go to the National Mentoring Association of Australia Inc an association of mentors, educators and researchers www.mentoring-australia.org
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TAFE courses
TAFEs (Technical and Further Education) institutions have a range of courses which can assist you in getting ready for work in Victoria. To find a course, see: www.tafe.vic.gov.au
Look beyond the course titles. Have a look at each course syllabus to find as much as you can about a course. Many of the English courses are really preparation for work courses. Their content includes a lot more than English language.
Exercise:
Review the English courses run by migrant resource centres, community centres, TAFEs, local church groups and private providers in your area. Make a list of any of interest to you.
Exercise:
Review the training courses run by TAFEs in your area. Make a list of any of future interest to you.
Work placement schemes

Another means of finding employment is through a work placement scheme. These programs offer a work experience placement as part of a more general up-skilling course. The most likely way to find about employment schemes is through: Engineers Australia Overseas Qualifications Units TAFEs Migrant resource centres
English language courses

Undertaking an English language course is a good way to improve your English but also a potential networking opportunity. To find an English language course, see: Department of Immigration and Citizenship AMEP courses: www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/help-with-english/amep Department of Immigration and Citizenship settlement services locator: www.immi.gov.au/living-in-australia/settle-in-australia English courses through TAFE: www.tafe.vic.gov.au
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Exercise:
Find the location of the above organisations nearest to where you live. Obtain their contact details and find out what schemes they have or are planning.
Chapter 13 Planning
Your plan
As a professional engineer, your training will have taught you the fundamentals of project management: Scope what you are going to do. Schedule when and in what order you are going to do things. Budget what everything will cost. Monitor and control stay within schedule and budget. Here is where you put this project management training into use to save yourself time and money.
Creating a network
Exercise
Nominate the path(s) you plan to pursue to obtain your first engineering job in Victoria. These paths include: Recruitment agencies Company websites Classified advertisements/internet/online An English-for-migrants course A work experience program Directly approaching employers By joining a professional association
Scope your ready for work checklist

Heres a list of things for you to consider when putting your plan and budget together.
Exercise:
Complete the checklist, set out your priorities and complete your plan to prepare yourself to be ready for work in Victoria. Item 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Conversational English satisfactory Technical English satisfactory Have planned regular English practice to improve English Qualifications assessed by Engineers Australia Have appropriate visa to work in the region where you are applying for work Base Australian CV prepared Yes/No Planned action
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Item 7. 8. 9. Knowledge of Victorian OHS standards Knowledge of quality assurance standards Have copy of key standard(s) for your discipline
Yes/No
Planned action
Your budget
No. Item Pre-departure fixed costs Visas (see charges on DIAC website) Qualification recognition by Engineers Australia Migration agents fees Language (IELTS) test Travel costs, including obtaining documents Police/security checks Medical examination Inoculations Money transfer fees Costs of vacating your home Temporary accommodation Taxis and buses after you have sold your car Pre-departure socialising and farewell gifts Packing and removal to storage (include insurance) Packing and removal to Victoria (include insurance) Airfares Pre-departure variable costs Additional requirements for the medical test Arrival/settling fixed costs Taxis/buses/hire car Temporary accommodation Translation of documents Memberships of Engineers Australia and APESMA Health insurance Drivers licence transfer Childrens school fees Telephone, internet (connections and initial bills) Car Customs clearance fees for household items Local removalist costs Arrival/settling variable costs No. Unit cost Item total
10. Receiving information on engineering in Australia e.g. magazines, web news services 11. Researched job market and selected potential employers 12. Detailed research on selected employers in readiness for job applications 13. Registration (if required) 14. Have a mentor 15. Attending engineering networking functions
Source: extract from Project Australia: Land That Engineering Job in Australia (www.tribuslingua.com.au)
Your schedule
Now that you know what you are going to do, you need to set realistic time frames for migrating to Victoria.
Exercise:
Use the sample schedule on the following pages as a guide to work from. In preparing your schedule, critically review the sequence of activities and mark in the links. Review the duration items are valid for and mark these in your schedule. For example, once you have your visa, you will need to enter Australia to validate the visa within a specified time.
A major cost will be supporting yourself and your family while you are out of work. Maintaining your schedule will control your budget.
Keep activities to no more than 46 weeks long. If you have activities longer than this, break them into two or three activities of shorter duration. This will help you manage your time more closely.
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No.
Item Bond for rented flat (one months rent) English courses for yourself and your family Other courses Taxis, travel Temporary hotel/motel accommodation Family support while you are out of work Travel and expenses when applying for jobs Mobile phone and internet Specialist clothing and equipment Summary Pre-departure fixed costs Pre-departure variable costs Arrival/settling fixed costs Arrival/settling - variable costs Contingency Total estimated cost
No.
Unit cost
Item total
Exercise:
Research the Commonwealth, State or local support available. Review the items you have in your budget and adjust to account for any savings you can make by using low-cost and free services.
Link your schedule and budget

To properly monitor and control your schedule and costs, you need know the costs associated with each activity.
Put your schedule and budget alongside each other. From your budget spreadsheet, allocate the cost for each line item to a matching activity or group of activities on the schedule. You will probably see the following:
There should be no activity in your schedule without an estimated cost, even if the cost is zero. Also every item in your budget should be associated with an activity in the schedule.
Not all activities have costs. For example, practicing your English may simply mean listening to a podcast every day. Some budgeted line items may be included in more than one activity. In this case, either split the cost between the activities or treat them as a group. A short-duration schedule item, such as travel to Victoria, will have a number of budget line items attached, such as taxi to airport, departure tax, excess luggage fees, meals, airfare and travel from airport. Group these together in your budget and have them as one activity on your schedule.
Source: extract from Project Australia: Land That Engineering Job in Australia (www.tribuslingua.com.au)
Exercise:
Revise your budget items and schedule activities so all your budgeted item costs are associated with a schedule activity or group of activities.
Government support
Government support can come from the three different levels: Commonwealth, State or local. Commonwealth Free services through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, such as translation for documentation.
State
The Victorian Governments Industry Insight information sessions see www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au for details and booking. Low-fee courses such as TAFE English for migrants.
Local
The Victorian Government funds a program to assist skilled migrants with employment transition in regional Victoria Regional Skilled Migration Program. Many regional areas have shortages of qualified engineers. If you are interested in living in a regional area, you can contact a skilled migration representative through the above website.
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Monitoring and control

Await visa outcome Month 10 Month 11 Month 12 Month 13 Month 14
You have planned the work. Now you need to put your plan into action and stay within schedule and budget. You are the manager of your own project. As you know, managing such a project required discipline. Every two weeks, set aside time to review your projects progress. It is best to make it a fixed time, such as at 8pm every second Monday. Set a time that fits in with all the other things going on in your life. Once you have set up your aligned budget and schedule, make a copy of them and update these spreadsheets every two weeks. Add a column to your budget spreadsheet for actual costs. Estimate the expenditure to complete the item. Add these two together and you have the predicted final cost for that item. On your schedule, mark up actual progress. If you are only part way through an activity, you need to estimate what proportion you have completed for the activity. For example, if you are a quarter way though a four-week activity, mark off one week of progress. Estimate the time required to complete the activity. Add this time from the actual and you have the predicted final cost for the activity Now you know what you have spent, how far you have progressed on your schedule, and what your predicted final cost and finish date will be. The project managers job is to deliver each project on time and within budget.
Practice English Obtain information from DIAC: www.immi.gov.au Obtain Engineers Australia information Research the labour market Determine your preferred location in Victoria Prepare budget Check visa requirements Prepare your CV for Victorian employers Apply for qualifications recognition Internet search for likely employers Qualifications assessed Apply for Skilled Migrant visa Medical examination Receive visa (approximately 6-18 months) Obtain international drivers licence Book air tickets Health insurance for travel Put house up for sale
Month15
Month 1
Month 2
Month 3
Month 4
Month 5
Month 6
Month 7
Month 8
Month 9
Activity
Exercise:
Prepare your actual budget and schedule spreadsheets. Nominate the time you will set aside for you regular progress assessment. Assessment day: Time:
Dispose of items you are not packing Temporary accommodation prior to leaving
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Month 16
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Await visa outcome
Month 10
Month 11
Month 12
Month 13
Month 14
Travel to Victoria
Month15
Month 1
Month 2
Month 3
Month 4
Month 5
Month 6
Month 7
Month 8
Month 9
Activity
Month 16
Temporary accommodation on arrival Australian health insurance House hunting Find schools for children Establish Victorian contacts

Chapter 14 Your Victorian CV

Australian curriculum vitae (CV, also known as a resume) have a particular style. They must tell an employer: What you have done How well you did it You must create an Australian-style CV. This chapter takes you through a series of exercises to make you aware of examples in your experience to show that you have similar experience and knowledge to Australian engineers. This will help you overcome the barrier of not having Australian experience. For a CV template, see: www.liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au. A poor CV will make it practically impossible for you to secure any job in Victoria. Develop interests and participate in organisations to help you prepare for getting a job.
Contact Engineers Australia and other engineering organisations Register with Centrelink and migrant resource centre Buy a car Obtain Victorian drivers licence Move into rented accommodation Find a job any job to earn money Start engineering job search Enrol in English course English course Enrol Family members for AMEP English

The basic CV
This is your base CV for your ideal job. When preparing your CV, and for job interviews, you need to be aware of all of your skills, attributes and achievements.
Elements of engineering CVs

You at a glance
Your career objective should be brief and realistic. A test you can use for a reality check is to prepare an answer for the question How do you plan to achieve this objective? You may be asked that in an interview. If you cannot do this easily, revise your objective.
Keep this section brief. It comprises a series of bullet-point items: Career objective Key skills and abilities Selected achievements
You should be able to read hese sections at a brief glance. Your key skills, abilities and achievements should be related to the job you are looking for. Keep sentences to no more than 20 words.
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Exercise:
Summarise your key skills, abilities and achievements. Make sure paragraphs have short sentences and are no more than four lines.
Exercise English is an international language:

You have probably done some business and study in the English language using English and American practices. List these.
Your employment experience

Summarise your employment experience, with each different job under one heading. The last five years experience and achievements should take about a page and a half.
Exercise:
Split each work episode into responsibilities and achievements. Make sure paragraphs are no more than four lines.
Relating your work experience to Australia

The following exercises will help you to relate your past experience to the engineering profession in Australia.
Exercise globalisation:
List the names of equipment manufacturers, engineering companies and licensors you have worked with that are known internationally. Example: General Electric (GE) turbines are sold in a large number of countries and GE-designed turbines are manufactured under license in Italy, India and Korea.
Exercise international standards and practices:

List the international or industry standards you have used. Compare these with Victorian industry standards. This establishes your history of working with standards comparable to Australian codes. International standard IEC 60348 Australia Standard AS/NZS 3000 wiring rules Relationship Australian Standard is based on IEC 60348
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Exercise:
List the standards and design practices of international companies you have used. Do these companies have Australian subsidiary companies or affiliates that may use similar engineering practices? International company Royal Dutch Shell Australia affiliate(s) Shell Company of Australia, Woodside Petroleum, Arrow Energy
Exercise:
List all the computer software you have used. Include general office applications such as email and word processing, general applications such as database and spread sheet software, and specific technical packages.
Exercise:
List numbers and titles of relevant international standards for the discipline and industry you are familiar with and your level of knowledge of the standards: DIN, ASME, IEC, NEMA, etc. Standard/code
Exercise quality assurance:

List where you have worked in an organisation or on a project with ISO 9001-2000 or equivalent accreditation for engineering design and construction.
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Exercise:
List the key Australian Federal and State regulations governing your discipline and the industry you are looking for work in.
The last five years should take up about half of your CV. Experience more than 10 years old as one-line summaries. No phrases such as I believe, I could, I will and If successful. No relative words such as some, a little, large or complex.
Hobbies and interests

Including a list of hobbies and interests is optional. Ask yourself if your interests show additional skills relevant to the job you want. If not, dont include them.
Referees
Put Available on request under this heading in your CV. It is most important the people you nominate as referees will give you a positive reference.
Exercise:
Review the referees listed on your CV. Do the referees really know you? Will they recall you if an employer calls them on the telephone? How will the referee answer the following questions?
If you are not certain your referee will give a positive response to these questions, find another referee.
Update your CV to show your Australian connections

Use the above information in your CV. This will highlight your abilities in an Australian context.
Was he/she reliable? What work did he/she do with you? Was he/she punctual? Did he/she put in additional effort when it was required? Why did he/she leave? Was he/she a team player? Would you re-employ him/her?
Exercise:
Include references to the names of equipment, products and standards into your base CV.
Exercise language and writing:

Check your CV for the following: Acronyms have a full description before their first use e.g. Project titles include a short description of the project Short sentences. Language is direct and simple. Your role in the task is identified. No more than three pages in length. Work experience is in chronological sequence, most recent first, dates included. Key skills listed up front. All claims are supported with evidence of work experience. General Electric (GE).
Now you have a basic CV. This is your starting point for a job application. For every job you apply for, go back to this CV and adjust it to meet the requirements of the job you are applying for.
Congratulations!
That was the easy part. Having completed all the exercises, you will now be well prepared to start searching for, and applying for, engineering jobs as soon as you and your family are settled in Victoria.
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Now, a final check list before you take off:

Competent working level of English. Visa to work in Victoria, in the area you are moving to. Qualifications accepted by Engineers Australia. CV prepared to suit the Victorian market.
You need a tick in every box to be confident you are ready to start looking for an engineering job when you land in Victoria.
Chapter 15 Selection criteria

Many jobs in Victoria request not only a CV, but also a response to selection criteria. You will need to address selection criteria in order to secure an interview
Work available in your discipline in the location you are moving to.
Selection criteria matching statement

If the selection criteria are not provided in the job advertisement, obtain a copy from the company website or contact person. The first question is for you: From the job description and what you can find out about the company, do you have the skills and experience to do the job? The second step is to examine both the selection criteria and your experience. In your response, provide information on your past experience and how this would enable you to be successful in the role. Take credit for experiences which may be transferable. Look for where you have used similar skills in a different area of work. Think about how your experience would make you stand out from the other applicants. Aim to market your international experience as an advantage to the Australian employer.
Exercise:
Find a job advertisement for your industry and discipline. Provide evidence from your work experience or from your life skills to demonstrate you meet the selection criteria listed. From what you can understand of the job description, selection criteria and company, what additional skills and experience can you offer? List those skills that could influence the application for the position advertised.
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List those skills that could be used elsewhere in the company.
Chapter 16 Job applications

As well as a CV and response to selection criteria, Victorian employers expect a letter of introduction as part of a job application known as a cover letter. Your cover letter should create an immediate impression. It should be direct and professional in describing why you believe you are suitable for the role, and be no more than a page long.
Cover letter checklist

Presentation is simple. Language is direct. Action words used. Addressed to the correct contact person mentioned in the advertisement. Letter is signed and dated. Application will arrive by the closing date (email it if it may be late through normal mail). Current work telephone number not included. If mailing, use a white A4 envelope.
Included in your cover letter:

The position and title of the person you are addressing the application to. The company name and address; for large companies, include the department and section in the address. The position title and any reference number. Your name, address and contact telephone number. A brief introduction of yourself. A brief rundown of how you meet the main selection criteria, referring the reader to your selection criteria matching statement for full details. Any other information specifically requested in the advert. Common requests are for notice of availability to start work and evidence of eligibility to work in Australia. Conclude with a request to meet to further discuss your eligibility for the position.
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Eliminate fatal errors such as:

Incorrect spelling of the company or contact persons name. Mentioning money. False statements. Starting with To whom it may concern. Name of the previous company you applied to. Outrageous boasting claims (I can manage the largest project you have, etc). Being interviewed is a stressful experience. Being thoroughly prepared is the best medicine to calm your nerves so that you can sell yourself.
Chapter 17 Job interviews
Seriously damaging errors:

Spelling mistakes. Poor English. Poor grammar. Paragraphs longer than four lines. Sentences longer than 20 words. Acronyms. Complex language. Long and rambling detail. Not mentioning the position being applied for. Unsubstantiated claims. Gimmicks such as using coloured or patterned paper. An unprofessional email address.
Ready for interview checklist

Acknowledge receiving the invitation to an interview. Know the interview format (one on one, panel, etc). Know how long it will take to travel to the interview at that time of day. Familiarise yourself with the interview location (building, etc). If you have an exhibit, have it handy, in a presentable folder. Have a plan to relax when you arrive, to control your nerves. Some people find it helpful to read through their CV or selection criteria. Appropriate clothes a suit (and tie for men) is standard.
At the interview preparing to enter

Turn off your mobile phone. Stop and take a deep breath and gather your thoughts. Be ready to shake hands with the interviewing panel members; if carrying a briefcase or folder, have it in your left hand. Look at each panel member in turn. Sit up straight and be open.
Exercise:
Prepare a basic cover letter for the type of job you want. Review your base cover letter against the checklist above.
Exercise:
Have your cover letter checked by some whose native language is English. Your English language checker is
Chatting (casual conversational English)

Practice chatting. It puts you at ease and creates a good first impression.
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Exercise:
Put together a list of general open questions for general conversation. The weather and current sporting events are safe topics.
How about in 10 years time? How about travel in the job? Would you have any issues with that? Why did you leave your last job? What do you like/dislike about your current (or last) engineering job? What has been you biggest challenge? Do you see yourself as becoming a technical specialist or manager? What is the biggest mistake you have made?
Technical training and experience

Be prepared to discuss, in detail, all aspects of the sort of work you have done. You also need to be prepared to talk about anything you have mentioned in your CV. For each component of the experience in your CV, you must be able to talk about:
Exercise:
Put together a list of answers to your general conversation questions. Try to make your answers finish with an open question.
What you have done. Why you did it that way. What alternatives you considered. Your role in the team. The problems encountered. How they were solved. If the job was completed on time. What you learnt from the experience.
Exercise
Prepare a script to explain the parts of your training and experience relating to the selection criteria of a job you are applying for.
Answering the likely questions

Answer the questions according to your own background and circumstances. Always be honest.
General questions
Why do you want to work for our company? What do you know about our company? Where do you see yourself in five years time?
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Exercise
Prepare a script to address each component of experience listed on your CV. Component of experience Experience #1 Why you did it that way What alternatives you considered Your role in the team The problems encountered How they were solved If the job was completed on time and the outcome of the project What you learnt from the experience Experience #2 Why you did it that way What alternatives you considered Your role in the team The problems encountered How they were solved If the job was completed on time and the outcome of the project What you learnt from the experience Experience #3 and so on. Your script
In your interview preparation, pay particular attention to the specific requirements of the job description and selection criteria. You must also be prepared to answer hypothetical questions related to the job requirements. Part of the whole interviewing game is to see how you respond to an unexpected situation. Reply by relating back to your experience and knowledge. Tell the interviewer/s how you have tackled similar situations in the past.
Always speak from your experience and training. If your knowledge or experience was minimal, be ready to admit it. Where you do not have direct experience, consider similar situations you have dealt with, where your skills might be transferable. Show that you have the skills required, if not the specific experience.
Exercise
Prepare a script to explain an event, based on your experience. For example, explain how you have corrected an engineering mistake you have made.
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Other sources
The Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers, Australia (APESMA) publishes its Professional Engineer Remuneration Survey reports twice a year (June and December). The reports detail both base salary and total remuneration package according to responsibility level, job function, experience, discipline, qualification, sector, industry, turnover and geographic location. Prices for obtaining a hard copy or online version of the latest report can be found on the APESMA website. www.apesma.com.au Another source is the Engineers Australia Salary and Benefits Survey, published near the beginning of each year. Engineers Australia surveys more than 400 employers rather than employees for this data, covering remuneration packages according to discipline and grade in both the public and private sectors. www.engineersaustralia.org.au
Planning and budgeting for delay

Try to do as much research and planning as you can before you leave your home country. As a professional engineer, your training will have taught you the fundamentals of project management, and thats how you should approach the task at hand. Consider: Scope what you are going to do. Schedule when and in what order you are going to do things. Budget what everything will cost. Monitor and control work the plan to stay within schedule and budget. You need to make sure the various parts of your plans are well aligned. Involve all stakeholders. For example, family migrating with you, people who will provide temporary accommodation, individual/employer/government sponsors, potential employers, agents, support groups, training organisations, the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, registration and licensing authorities, removalists, etc. Note that some time delays will be beyond your control, such as the time it takes to get professional registration or licensing finalised. Some official processing can take a month or two, or more. Also remember that documents dont remain valid forever. Be aware of the duration of the validity of your medical certificates and travel documents. Renewing them after they have expired can be expensive.
Timeframes to find work

It will typically take you two to six months to get a job, and not uncommonly several months longer, however this will vary on a case by case basis. The main determinants are: Strength of demand for your engineering discipline and areas of specialisation. Level of experience employers are generally looking for more experienced engineers. Evidence of experience including your CV (and how it has been adapted for Australian employers) with examples of work including drawings, reports, photos, etc. Communication skills oral and written English skills, as well as your more general social skills in communicating and interviews. Networking take full advantage of any personal contacts you already have in Australia; join relevant industry organisations and their sub-groups as soon as possible; and talk to and arrange to meet with potentially knowledgeable and helpful people. At least 70% of vacant positions arent publicly advertised but are filled through contacts and word of mouth. Other job hunting skills job searching online and in newspapers. Determination and perhaps your ability to remain optimistic after repeated disappointments and setbacks.
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RSS feeds
RSS stands for Real Simple Syndication. It is a format to deliver regular content updates, called feeds, to one location. It allows you to stay up-to-date and informed by retrieving the latest content from any website you are interested in and have subscribed to. When you subscribe to a website, new content will automatically be sent to you when its available. This saves you the time of checking the website for updates. To read these feeds, you need News Reader software or a web-based newsreader. When you are searching for a lot of information on engineering jobs in Victoria, this can save you considerable time and make the searching process much more efficient.
Chapter 18 Resource links

Meeting other skilled migrants is a great way of finding out about their experiences and how they found work.
Google alerts
Its a good idea to set up a Google Alerts account. Google combines all information related to your keywords from a number of information sources which can include blogs, video and groups. Google has a specific site to send latest relevant results to your email account. You can set up as many alerts as you like and get the latest information to your email as it happens, daily or weekly. As an example, you could set up alerts for the keywords Australia Victoria engineering jobs.
Social networking online

Having the right connections can help you find a job in Victoria. Social networking is a great way to make contact with other engineers working in the profession. Use the top social and professional networking sites, listed below, to enhance your career and assist with your job search. Get a web-based email address you can access anywhere in the world, such as Yahoo/Gmail. If you already have an email address with a country-specific extension such as @yahoo.co.in, its a good idea to change it as you are moving to Australia or people may think you are still overseas.
Australian Web Search

You can use local search engines to get the best information possible. Some of the larger directories and search engines include:
LinkedIn
Create your profile on Linkedin. The more complete your Linkedin profile, the more chances you will have to be found and contacted. Use your Linkedin profile like a CV and provide prospective employers with detailed information on your skills and experience. www.linkedin.com
Yahoo Australia
www.au.yahoo.com
Sensis
www.sensis.com.au
Linkme
An Australian website for building business networks online. It has the added value of allowing you to make your skills and experience available to recruiters and employers wishing to fill specific job vacancies. www.linkme.com.au
Google Australia
www.google.com.au
Nine MSN
www.ninemsn.com.au
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Meeting places and resources

As a new or prospective migrant to Victoria, you may not initially know anyone in Australia. However, you will be surprised how quickly you can build a network. Most people start their network with people from their own country. While other people who speak your language or share your culture are a great social support, its important to extend your sphere of contacts in the Victorian community. Begin with people from your country, but extend this using professional associations and community-based groups. You will be welcomed wherever you go; Victorians are a very friendly bunch.
AsiaLink
The Asialink Centre promotes public understanding of the countries of Asia and creates links with Asian counterparts. Asialinks mission is to work with business, government, philanthropic and cultural partners to initiate and strengthen Australia Asia engagement. www.asialink.unimelb.edu.au
Australia-Arabic Council
www.aac.org.au
Australian professional associations for engineers

Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia (APESMA) www.apesma.com.au Australian Institute of Energy www.aie.org.au Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association www.alaea.asn.au Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) www.casa.gov.au Consult Australia (formally Association of Consulting Engineers Australia) www.consultaustralia.com.au Engineers Australia www.engineersaustralia.org.au Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia www.ipwea.org.au National Engineering Registration Board www.engineersaustralia.org.au/nerb
Australia-India Business Council

www.aibc.org.au
Australia-Malaysia Business Council

www.ambc.org.au
Australia-Indonesia Business Council

www.aibc.com.au
Australia-China Business Council

www.acbc.com.au
British Chamber of Commerce

www.britishchamber.com
Canadian Chamber of Commerce

www.cacc.com.au
Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Australia

www.chinachamber.org.au
Professional business networks and online resources

Here is a list of professional business networks and online resources based in Australia, some with focus on doing business internationally:
Hong Kong-Australia Business Association

www.hkaba.com.au
Irish Chamber of Commerce

www.irlaust.com
Australia Industry Group

The Australia Industry Group operates all over Australia. It is Australias leading industry organisation representing 10,000 employers in manufacturing, construction, automotive, telecommunications, IT and call centres, transport, labour hire and other industries. It has large representation across Victoria. www.aigroup.asn.au
Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) is Victorias most influential employer group, servicing over 15,000 Victorian businesses per annum. An independent, non-government body, VECCI was started by the business community to represent business. www.vecci.org.au
American Chamber of Commerce

www.amcham.com.au
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Links for making connections in your community

FaHCSIA
The department of families, housing, community services and indigenous affairs (FaHCSIA). This Australian Government portal has links to community programs and services, grants and funding, benefits & payments, publications and articles and related agencies and sites. www.fahcsia.gov.au
Information on Victorian cities and regional towns

The Live in Victoria website provides general information on locations around Victoria including
Melbourne Metropolitan Victorian regional areas

North East Benalla, Seymour, Shepparton, Wallan, Wangaratta, Wodonga, Yarrawonga North West Bendigo, Castlemaine, Echuca, Gisborne, Kyabram, Maryborough, Mildura, Swan Hill South East Bairnsdale, Drouin, Lakes Entrance, Moe-Yallourn, Morwell, Sale, Traralgon, Warragul, Wonthaggi West Ararat, Bacchus Marsh, Ballarat, Horsham, Stawell South West Colac, Drysdale-Clifton Springs, Geelong, Hamilton, Lara, Leopold, Ocean Grove-Barwon, Heads, Portland, Torquay, Warrnambool
Infoxchange
A useful resource for information on the Australian community sector. www.infoxchange.net.au
Meetin.org
Meet and make new friends. Include English language special interest groups www.meetin.org
Newcomers Network
For people who have moved (or are planning to move), to help them make the most of their new life. Newcomers Network runs welcome events around Australia including in regional Victoria and Melbourne. www.newcomersnetwork.com
Victorian Multicultural Commission

It has a multicultural resource directory that lists all the communities in Victoria and includes associations and organisations. www.multicultural.vic.gov.au
VicNet
Victorias community information portal has a directory listing for nationalities. It includes everything from African through to Vietnamese communities. www.vicnet.net.au
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Conclusion
Congratulations on investing your time in the Working in Victoria, An Engineers Guide workbook. If youve taken the time to work through the step-by-step guides and complete the self-evaluation checklists, you should now be in a position to start putting into practice the theory and techniques youve learned, and work towards your goal of migrating to Victoria. By completing this workbook you should have a better understanding of: how to develop job seeking tools for the Australian job market where to find opportunities and how to approach Australian employers why you need to develop social and professional networks to access employment opportunities the professional recognition and requirements for practice as an engineer in Victoria Whether you choose to take advantage of the opportunities in metropolitan Melbourne, or regional Victoria, youll find many other migrants who have also chosen to create a new life for themselves and their families in Victoria. Keep this workbook as it is a valuable tool that you can refer back to throughout your career in Victoria. We welcome your feedback and suggestions on how we can improve this guide. Please email and comments or suggestions to skilled@liveinvictoria.vic.gov.au For more information about the services for skilled and business migrants, including a free Relocation Guide, visit LiveInVictoria.vic.gov.au
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