Careers in manufacturing

You can make it in Queensland.

Manufacturing is one of Queensland’s most exciting sectors, providing an opportunity to design, make and market products that solve real-world problems.

Advanced manufacturing is transforming the sector through new technologies and processes, and there’s an opportunity for you: no matter if you work with a grinder and welder or a robot and computer!

Whether you’re still at school, getting ready for uni or TAFE Queensland, or just thinking about a career change, there’s a path to get you into an exciting future in manufacturing.

  • Digitalisation, nanoelectronics, leading-edge technologies and autonomous systems are modernising the local manufacturing industry, positioning Queensland as an international market leader in manufacturing products that are innovative, sustainable, and embedded in global supply chains.

    With a highly diverse sector – including aerospace, agriculture, automotive, electronics, energy, chemicals, civil engineering, construction, food production, pharmaceuticals, and robotics – there are careers to suit every interest, whether you’re starting your first job or looking for a new career challenge.

  • School-based training can give students a head start in their manufacturing career while completing their studies.

    School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SATs) allow high school students (usually Years 10, 11 or 12) to work and train for a trade or vocational qualification while also completing their Queensland Certificate of Education.

    The Queensland Government has also developed the Gateway to Industry School program – a partnership between schools and industry to enable young people to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attributes to pursue their career goals.

    There are currently 46 Queensland schools offering the Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools program that provide industry insights and connections to the advanced manufacturing industries.

  • Vocational training courses provide a range of opportunities for school-leavers to discover and pursue careers in the Queensland manufacturing industry.

    TAFE Queensland offers a selection of manufacturing-based certificate courses from manufacturing to design and engineering.

    The TAFE Queensland offering also includes a specialty course in craft brewing for those looking to be a part of this emerging sector.

  • Making the decision to change careers can be difficult, but the Queensland Government has resources available to help make the transition easier .

    Retraining is often the first step on the path to a new career and vocational training courses provide an opportunity to begin the journey.

    The Queensland Skills Gateway is a one stop shop for evaluating the training opportunities in the manufacturing sector.

  • The Queensland Government is committed to increasing the number of women participating in the state’s manufacturing workforce to drive innovation and growth in the industry.

    As a key initiative of the Advanced Manufacturing 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan, the Women in Manufacturing strategy was released in 2023 to help achieve this outcome.

Last updated: 27 Sep 2023