Much like every other industry, engineering has felt the ramifications of the pandemic. But with a range of funding initiatives announced late in 2020 as part of the JobMaker Plan, the federal government has made it clear that investment in major infrastructure projects will be at the centrepiece of its plan for Australia’s economic recovery post COVID-19. In fact, measures announced in the 2020 Budget, together with those announced at the start of the pandemic, will see $14 billion invested in new and accelerated infrastructure projects, supporting a further 40,000 jobs.

This reliance on infrastructure for economic growth and stability however, came well before the pandemic hit Australia’s shores. Since November 2019, the government has worked with state, territory and local governments to bring forward or inject additional investment totalling nearly $7.8 billion. The intention is to create opportunities for Australian engineering organisations, and professionals that are hoping for the opportunity to advance their career by stepping into new and exciting roles.

According to Matthew Obst, Practice Manager of ADG Engineers’ Melbourne office, this bout of new funding and projects paves the way for motivated individuals to take the next step forward, given projected industry demand.

“The Melbourne engineering industry is known for having high skills, integrity, strong regulation, quality systems, and traditional delivery methods,” he says.

“However, we expect many traditions will be challenged when the current generation of engineering thought leaders are given the opportunity to implement leaner and more agile systems.”

ADG is one organisation that is currently experiencing growth, particularly within its structural engineering space, and is in the process of growing its Melbourne office. Having worked on Melbourne-based projects such as the Melbourne Metro Tunnel, West Gate tunnel and educational facilities including the University of Melbourne and Bendigo TAFE, they are now looking for a Senior Structural Manager to develop this team, build their client base and be responsible for the successful delivery of projects.

According to the latest data from Job Outlook, Structural Engineers stand to benefit from “very strong future growth” over the next five years – this is the highest estimate awarded by the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business. Despite this positive outlook, there is a relatively small pool of talent in this sector, and only 25.9 percent of these employees work within Victoria, making Melbourne a prime market for entry for ambitious and forward-thinking professionals wanting to provide creative and sustainable solutions to the community.

This will be particularly important moving forward, as Australia – and the world at large – begins to rethink the way communities, buildings and public spaces are reimagined based on the events of 2020. There will no doubt be a greater focus on how the built environment effects physical and mental wellbeing, providing digital solutions that keep us connected when we can’t physically be together, and environmental sustainability.

Matthew says that despite the challenges experienced by all during the past 12 months, this focus on bettering the lives of communities through sustainable engineering solutions makes this an exciting time for the industry.

“At ADG, we design with purpose. And using our multi-sector experience and diverse range of capabilities, we will tackle challenges head-on, striking the right balance between visionary and pragmatic solutions.

“As always, we will continue to be mindful of the role we play in shaping places, people and communities. We are proud to lead strong, best-practice solutions that create a positive and sustainable legacy for the future.”

For anyone looking for the next step in their engineering career, Matthew says there is no time like the present to apply for an opportunity that puts you firmly at the forefront of driving innovation within a company that rewards it.

“This Senior Structural Manager role in our Melbourne office is an investment in our future,” he says. “Our people are our most valuable asset, and we actively encourage continuous learning, recognising great work and celebrating our success together.

“There are many ways within ADG to reward success, not least the satisfaction of delivering prominent projects and recognising growth in our business and our staff expertise.”

If you are interested in applying for ADG’s Senior Structural Manager position in their Melbourne office, or would like more information about the role, please contact;

Wayne Eaton – weaton@baysidepersonnel.com.au mobile 0422 003 895.

David Pham – dpham@baysidepersonnel.com.au mobile 0417 389 222.