Engineers Australia is the trusted voice of the engineering profession, delivering training, support, accreditation and representation to engineers across the globe.

EA is more than just a membership. As engineers, you have the power to change things - in building a sustainable future, solving the unsolvable and creating a better world. As we all know, it’s easier to change things when we work as a team.

Our commitment

Engineers Australia is pledged to the engineering profession, its practitioners and its proponents. We are committed to guiding and assisting all engineers, including students of all levels pursuing a future in engineering.

Studying engineering

It is never too early for a student to learn and apply themselves to the goal of attending university for an engineering degree. Curious, inventive children are driven by creativity and aptitude, supported by devoted parents and guided by talented educators. Our goal is to provide a third point of inspiration and direction for future engineers, backing the efforts of their studies and the support of their families and schools.

Teaching future engineers

We admire the dedication and foresight of educators who help students of all ages explore STEM subjects. By instilling a passion for the invaluable components of an engineering mindset in children at a young age, you ensure Australia’s future needs are met with rising talent.

Frontier

Frontier is a community for student and graduate members of Engineers Australia designed to support you on your journey to where you want to be. You can access a range of resources and benefits created to provide tailored support, guidance and advice on all things relating to university, graduating, getting a job and finding your professional feet.

As an engineering student in a tertiary institution you have more than assignments to consider. You’re probably thinking about how to start your career after graduation. You might be searching for ways to differentiate yourself from your peers. You may wonder if there are hands-on ways to learn more about your chosen occupation. Engineers Australia understands your needs. Use the resources below to learn more about resources and services available to students.

Engineers Australia offers a range of career services for members – from helping you to find your first job, keeping your skills up to date and changing or ending your career.

The Career Development Centre, offers a range of online services to assist engineers, technologists, and associates at every stage of their career.

Preparing your chronological resume

The purpose of a resume is to sell your skills to a potential employer, think of it as a marketing tool rather than a report. It needs to grab the reader’s attention by demonstrating that you are qualified to do a particular job.

Download a guide to preparing your Chronological Resume

Preparing your functional resume

The difference between a standard or chronological resume and a functional one is you concentrate more on the skills learnt and experience gained, more so than the actual work undertaken, hence it is the preferred method to use if changing industries or career path. It is also used for persons with more experience or later in their career.

Download a guide to preparing your Functional Resume

Preparing your cover letter

A good cover letter can help you get a job interview by convincing an employer that you have the skills to do the job. It will also demonstrate your written communication skills.

Download an example of a cover letter

Engineering Skills Matrix

A table that matches personnel, or other resources, with desired skills to provide views of the need for additional development, training or the acquisition of new resources.

Download a Skills Matrix template

Career Planning

Outline of how to develop a career plan — regardless of where you are in your engineering career.

Career Development Guide

Download the Career Development Guide

Selecting referees

Referees are used by employers to check your suitability for a position and to verify your previous employment.

Who should I choose?

You should choose people who are in a position to comment on your skills, experience and achievements. Depending on how long you have been working for at least one of your referees should be someone to whom you’ve directly reported.

Always ask permission to nominate someone as a referee first. (Previous employers / managers are not obliged to provide you with a reference). Referees should be people who will support your application. If you have any doubts, ask most people will be honest if they feel they can’t support you.

Ensure you have up to date contact details for your referees including current job title, telephone numbers and email address, nothing is more frustrating for a prospective employer as well as showing a lack of attention to detail.

How many should I choose?

For new graduates, two is the minimum number of professional referees recommended. As you obtain more work experience you should develop a pool of around 5-6. This gives employers a choice in who they speak to, and also gives you a fallback if one of your referees is unavailable for some reason.

Briefing Referees

• Ensure they have an up to date copy of your resume.
• Let them know in advance when they are likely to be contacted and by whom. This is particularly important if you have nominated a university lecturer or somebody else who might be a referee for a lot of people. Tell them what you learnt about the position at the interview. Remind them about relevant bits of your work experience.
• Notify them when you’ve been successful.

Tips

• Don’t give out the names of your referees until asked. This gives you the opportunity to brief them first. 
• Only allow reference checking after you’ve had an interview for a position and you know you are on the shortlist and you’re interested in the position.

Migrant Engineer Guide

Practical notes on how to increase your chances of getting your first engineering job in Australia.

Work practice reports

• Effective Industry Engagement in Australian Engineering Degrees (Australian Council of Engineering Deans) 
• Reflecting on Effective Industry Engagement in an Engineering Program (Australian Council of Engineering Deans)
• Co-operative Education Degree Program (Engineering) Employer Handbook (Australian Maritime College) 
• Chemical Engineering Design Project Guide for Students 2014 (Curtin University)
• Industry Engagement Program Handbook 2013 (Edith Cowan University)
• The Role of a Vacationer Buddy (Graduate Development Program)
• Work Integrated Learning Unit Outline (Queensland University of Technology)
• Effective Industry Engagement in Australian Engineering Degrees (Sally Male and Robin King)
• Induction Guide - Mechanical and Piping Engineering (Student Engineer Work Program)
• Industry Based Learning Program Handbook 2011 (Swinburne University) 
• Engineering Practice Program Student Guide (University of Technology, Sydney) 
• Career Mentor Link Manual (University of Western Australia

With over 100,000 members, Engineers Australia membership is recognised world-wide and can help open doors via its network and reputation. Students looking to start their engineering career through professional development, support and industry connections should apply for membership today.

Students studying an accredited or recognised TAFE/VET course in engineering can apply for free student membership.

Knowledge

Access Australia’s premier engineering network and have world-class professional development and technical resources at your fingertips.

In such a diverse profession with so many exciting opportunities, now is the time to start thinking about your engineering career. Explore your options at Careers Expos and local events and learn more with extensive industry resources. Whether you're driven by innovation, sustainability or the love of a challenge, Engineers Australia offers expert advice and guidance to support your ambition.

Career Centre

Student members can also take advantage of the Career Centre's information on resume writing, interview skills and more. Engineers Australia encourages lifelong learning and is committed to working alongside industry employers and you, at every stage of your career.

Events and networking

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) events offer you the opportunity to explore the different disciplines of engineering and witness the application of your current area of study. Build your knowledge and engage with professionals working in your chosen field.

myCPD

myCPD’s videos, short courses and other online learning tools mean you can add real-world expertise to your assignments and develop your engineering skills.

Resources

Engineers Australia membership includes access to a wide range of resources to help with tertiary studies and research. The online library offers world-class technical databases, conference papers, industry journals, handbooks and more; exploring all areas of engineering.

News and updates

Keeping up-to-date with news, trends and technology is vital in such a fast-paced profession. In addition to active social media channels, the Engineers Australia website is a great source of industry updates and local events. The monthly student newsletter, study brEAk, provides career advice, engagement opportunities and updates on the current state of engineering in Australia.

Recognition

Gain the competitive edge in the global market by being a part of the elite community committed to engineering a better world.

Post-nominals

Looking to set yourself apart and increase your career opportunities?

Post-nominals (StudIEAust) mean peers and employers instantly recognise your commitment to the profession and personal development.

Awards

You can also get noticed for academic achievements through a range of student awards, university medals and scholarships.

Chartered

You can also start preparing for your Chartered journey to be recognised as a competent, independent and ethical engineering professional.

Global mobility

As you look to enter an increasingly global profession, it’s important to know that you’ll be supported wherever your career takes you. Engineers Australia facilitates the mobility of members through accreditation, international Accords and Mutual Recognition Agreements with like-minded organisations. If you’re looking to join more than 5,000 members working around the globe, we have an active international program with multiple overseas Chapters.

Voice

Have your say in the direction and future of your profession.

Volunteering

Build your professional reputation and industry knowledge by volunteering through your local Division. Getting involved with expert groups offers you the opportunity to learn from others and engage with professionals working in your chosen field.

Learned Groups

Local and National groups are involved in advocacy activities and raising the profile of engineers, facilitating professional connections, learning opportunities and increasing engagement in engineering activities.

Advocacy

Engineers Australia ensures members’ interests are represented and voiced to government through ongoing advocacy activities and media engagement. Keen to know more? Follow @EngAustralia on Twitter to keep up-to-date on news announcements and dialogue between Engineers Australia, key journalists and politicians. The latest media releases are available on the Engineers Australia website

Exclusive member rewards

Unlock the full value of your membership. Engineers Australia members receive exclusive offers and discounts to support your business, professional and personal lives; from respected organisations such as Avis and OzForex.

Find out about Member Rewards HERE

Requirements

To qualify for student membership, you must be studying an accredited or recognised Australian course in engineering. They can be either: 

1. a two-year Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree in Engineering program
2. a three-year Bachelor of Engineering Technology/Science program 
3. a four-year Bachelor of Engineering program
4. a two-cycle Bachelor + Master in Engineering program (3 year + 2 year program or integrated BE/ME 5 year program)
5. a Conversion Master of Engineering program

If you are unsure, please have a look at the accredited programs list to see if your engineering program has been listed.

Not all TAFE/VET courses undertake accreditation with Engineers Australia. These courses, if in engineering, are generally recognised for membership purposes.

View a list of Engineers Australia accredited courses

As a tertiary student, working hard towards an engineering degree is both challenging and exciting. Engineers Australia can help you complement that study with real-world experience through our training and events program. With our help, you will graduate with more than technical knowledge - you'll already be on your way to growing a network, supplemental skill set and career.

Free membership for student engineers

As a student in an accredited engineering course you're entitled to free membership with Engineers Australia. You'll connect with over 100,000 professionals and enjoy the benefits of being allied with your future profession's biggest advocate.

Join today!

Engineering Technical Society membership

Many of Engineers Australia's associated technical societies offer discounted rates for students. Technical societies are a fantastic way to network within your industry and related industries. For example, an electrical engineering student interested in rail and train transport could join the Railway Technical Society of Australasia or the Transport Australia society.

Find engineers aligned to your interests and enrich your understanding of what your future holds by joining a Technical Society. With reduced rates for students, it's a worthwhile and rewarding step towards your life as a professional.

Learn more about Technical Societies

Events for engineering students

Attending conferences, talks and site visits related to your industry provides insights into your field and opportunities to connect with potential life-long contacts.

Visit our Conferences and Events section