Key facts
- ANZSCO Code
- 233111
- Skill Level
- 1
- Occupation Lists
- MLTSSL
Overview
Chemical engineers in Australia find opportunities primarily in the resources sector, including oil and gas (LNG), mineral processing, and water treatment. Australia is one of the world's largest LNG exporters, and its mineral processing operations (alumina, nickel, lithium) are significant employers of chemical engineers.
Beyond resources, chemical engineers work in food and beverage manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, environmental engineering, and water utilities.
Skills Assessment
Your assessing authority is Engineers Australia. The CDR pathway applies if your degree is not from a Washington Accord signatory institution. Three career episodes and a summary statement are required.
ANZSCO code: 233111
Processing takes 2 to 3 months. Career episodes should focus on process design, optimisation, safety analysis, or commissioning work relevant to chemical engineering.
Eligible Visas
Chemical Engineer (233111) is on the MLTSSL:
- Subclass 189, 190, 491 (skilled migration)
- Subclass 482, 186 (employer-sponsored)
Job Market
Salary range: AUD 90,000 to 150,000. LNG and mineral processing roles in WA and QLD can exceed AUD 170,000, particularly for site-based positions. Water treatment and environmental roles tend to pay in the AUD 85,000 to 120,000 range.
Perth and Brisbane are the main hubs for resources-related chemical engineering. Melbourne and Sydney offer roles in consulting, manufacturing, and water utilities. The lithium processing sector is a growth area, with new projects in WA creating demand for process engineers.
Tips
- LNG experience is highly valued in Australia's oil and gas sector. If you have experience with gas processing, liquefaction, or petrochemicals, your skills are transferable and in demand.
- The transition to critical minerals processing (lithium, rare earths, hydrogen) is creating new roles that did not exist a few years ago.
- Process safety management (HAZOP, SIL assessment) skills are expected for senior roles. Consider obtaining relevant certifications.
- Water treatment and desalination is a steady employer, particularly in Adelaide, Perth, and regional areas with water scarcity challenges.
Frequently asked questions
Which resources sector roles suit chemical engineers?
LNG processing, mineral processing (alumina refining, nickel laterite processing, lithium extraction), oil and gas operations, and water treatment are the main areas. Chemical engineers also work in environmental remediation and process safety consulting.
Is the LNG sector still hiring?
Yes. Australia remains one of the world largest LNG exporters with major facilities in WA (North West Shelf, Gorgon, Wheatstone) and QLD (Curtis Island). While new construction has slowed, operations, maintenance, and optimisation roles continue to be recruited.
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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.