Engineering
Electrical engineer
Summary
Electrical engineers design, develop and oversee the manufacturing, installation, operation and maintenance of electrical machines and systems.
They specialise in the generation, distribution, and control of electrical energy on various defence systems, which could include communication equipment for satellites; or vessels and vehicles like submarines and frigates.
Electrical engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the efficiency, reliability and safety of these electrical systems, which must meet the rigorous requirements and environmental conditions of the Australian Defence Force.
Other Occupation Titles
Electrical design engineer
Energy systems engineer
Power systems engineer
Luigi Iemi, Senior Systems Engineer (Electric) at Blacktree Technology
“My role entails analysing the requirements put forward by the Commonwealth of Australia and working out a solution which meets those required parameters. The wide variety of equipment defence use and the challenging environment under which it has to operate is what excited me to pursue a career in WA’s defence industry.
The most rewarding part about working in the defence industry is meeting the technical challenges listed above and contributing, in some small way, to the national defence.”
This profile was correct at the time of publishing.
Skilling opportunities
These skill sets are designed to enhance and build upon existing qualifications/licences to provide focused and specific training to further develop your skills, knowledge and expertise in a particular area. They may contribute to the completion of a VET qualification in a related field.
- UEESS00210 – Sustainable – Electrical Installations Sustainability Strategies Skill Set
- UEESS00180 – Electrical – Plan, Manage and Report on Electrical Projects Skill Set
- UEESS00214 – Sustainable – Energy Efficiency Systems Designer Skill Set
- UEESS00215 – Sustainable – Energy Efficiency Systems Developer Skill Set
These skill sets are appropriate for individuals who already hold a VET qualification in electrical, electronic or data communication. The units in these skill sets contribute to the completion of a VET qualification in a related field:
- UEESS00144 – Instrumentation – Develop Integrated Systems Skill Set
- UEESS00145 – Instrumentation – Plan the Installation of Integrated Systems Skill Set
- UEESS00135 – Instrumentation – Programmable Control Systems Skill Set
- UEESS00143 – Instrumentation – Develop an Integrated System Interface for Access Through a Touch Screen Skill Set
VET pathway
This qualification provide pathways to higher education and achieving your desired occupation.
- MEM50119 – Diploma of Engineering – Advanced Trade
Tertiary pathway
To become an electrical engineer, you usually need to study a Bachelor or higher in Electrical Engineering.
Indicative salary range
Low end – $90,000
High end – $165,000
Source: Kinexus Defence Industry Insights Tenth Edition.
Low end salary is based on positions with 1–3 years of experience, and High end salary is based on 15–20 years of experience.
Total Salary Package = Full-time annual equivalent of base salary or rate plus statutory superannuation and any other remuneration applicable to the role (before tax).
Salaries may vary based on scope and level of responsibility. Certain occupations may experience higher total salaries than listed due to receiving bonus or commission payments.
Express your interest
For skill sets or qualifications not currently delivered by a Western Australian training provider, complete an Enquiry form to express your interest in future delivery.