Electrical engineer

An electrical engineer designs and manages electrical systems. These complex systems are part of every railway line, train, station and freight hub. Electrical engineers work at the leading edge of new technology.
Also known as: Electrical and mechatronics engineer, Telecommunications and networks engineer, Signal engineer, Signalling engineer, Communications engineer

Is this role right for you?

Do you love finding out how something works? Or do you think you could design it better? Engineers use careful analysis and creative thinking to solve complex problems. They harness creativity to explore bold new solutions. Many engineers lead teams to design, build and maintain Australia’s railways. They’re excellent communicators because they need to explain their ideas and collaborate with other people on projects.

What are some example projects or experiences?

Many railways are shifting from diesel to electric powered trains to create clean and efficient rail networks. Electrical engineers design and build the motors, batteries and charging stations. Electrical engineers also design automated railway networks using advanced signalling and communications systems. This creates fast, safe and reliable train networks. Right now, they’re working to replace systems that can be 100 years old.

What is the work environment like?

You’ll work in a team of engineers and skilled tradespeople. You might work in an office, designing the next generation of passenger trains. Or you could be on a construction site helping to install new infrastructure. You can find work as an electrical engineer all around Australia. Most jobs are in cities and towns. Some are in remote areas.

Eligibility & pathways

Electrical engineers typically complete a university degree. They generally study areas such as electronics, power, telecommunications, and mechatronics. Our industry values diverse personal and work experience. Many employers can provide you with opportunities to gain additional qualifications and industry experience to help you succeed.

Current job vacancies

Telecommunications Engineer 

WSP USA
Canberra Region
 

Site Engineer Signalling 

UGL Group
Brisbane CBD
 

Project Signal Electrician 

Australian Rail Track Corporation
Broadmeadow
 

Lead Electrical Engineer, HV/Primary 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Senior Electrical Engineer, Transmission Lines 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Electrical Engineer 

Aurecon
Brisbane
 

Electrical Engineer 

WSP
Adelaide CBD
 

Electrical Engineer 

Aurecon
Brisbane
 

Electrical Engineer (Buildings) 

Stantec
South Brisbane
 

Senior Electrical Engineer, HV/Primary 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Electrical Engineer 

Aurecon
Darwin
 

Senior Engineer 

Downer
Melbourne
 

Graduate Engineer, Electrical 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Equipment Engineer - Substations 

Stantec
South Brisbane
 

Equipment Engineer - Substations 

Stantec
Wollongong Area
 

Design Manager, Transmission 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Project Engineer, I&C 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Project Engineer - Electrical (Substations) 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Design Manager, Transmission 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Senior Project Engineer, Electrical 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Transmission and Substation Professionals 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Commissioning Engineer - Secondary Systems 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Combat Systems Engineer 

Downer
Canberra Region
 

Site Engineer - Electrical 

UGL Group
Murray Area
 

Project Manager - Electrical 

UGL Group
Australia
 

Engineer Process Control 

Rio Tinto
Australia
 

National Construction Manager, Substations 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Construction Manager 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Electronics Technician 

Thales
Garden Island
 

Project Manager 

Downer
New South Wales
 

Project Engineer, Stringing 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Commissioning Engineer 

UGL Group
Australia
 

Site Engineer - Electrical (Substations) 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Electrical Supervisor 

Thales
Garden Island
 

Senior Engineer - Quality 

UGL Group
Rivervale
 

Senior Estimator - Water Infrastructure 

ACCIONA Construcción
Australia
 

Senior Radio Systems Engineer Full-time Permanent 

ACT Government
Australian Capital Territory
 

Secondary Design Engineer 

WSP
Melbourne CBD
 
Avenues of Entry
Graduate
Qualified
Management
Pay Range
$72K
$211K
Mid-level
$72,500 - $150,000
Senior level
$136,000 - $207,000
Manager level
$170,000 - $211,500

Salaries may vary outside of these ranges, based on company size and location, level of experience, competence and time in role.