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Electrical Engineering Job Market: Emerging Trends and Insights

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If you’re an electrical engineer in the mining or oil and gas sectors, you’ve probably noticed things are shifting in 2025. Projects are picking up pace in some areas, while others are slowing down or restructuring. As a recruiter working closely with companies across Queensland and beyond, here’s what I’m seeing in the market right now – and importantly, what it means for electrical engineers.

Demand Is Rising for Power Systems Engineers and HV Specialists

There’s a noticeable uptick in demand for engineers with strong backgrounds in power systems, protection design and high-voltage (HV) experience. This shift is driven by asset upgrades, decarbonisation initiatives and grid integration challenges – especially in brownfield mining operations.

What this means for you:

If you’ve been involved in site-based work or infrastructure upgrades and can speak to SCADA, relay settings or network modelling, your skills are in demand. Consider updating your CV or LinkedIn with those keywords.

FIFO Roles are Still Strong... But More Candidates Want Brisbane-based Work

Fly-in-fly-out roles remain steady, particularly in Western Australia and North Queensland. However, more engineers want to come off rostered work and settle into Brisbane-based design, advisory or owner’s team roles.

What this means for you:

If you're looking to shift into a metro-based role, highlight any recent experience with stakeholders, feasibility studies or project lifecycle planning - these skills are highly transferable to consulting or EPCM positions.

Salaries are Stable... But Counteroffers are on the Rise

Base salaries have remained mostly steady compared to late 2024, but counteroffers have become more aggressive as employers try to retain talent. Candidates are being offered flexible working, retention bonuses and sudden pay increases when they resign.

What this means for you:

Know your value before you enter the market, and get tips for effective salary negotiations. And don’t accept a counteroffer without considering why you were job hunting in the first place.

Hiring Managers Are Moving Slower... But Expecting More

Some companies are taking longer to hire due to increased internal approval processes and budget scrutiny. At the same time, they're being more selective, asking for niche skill sets or industry-specific experience.

What this means for you:

Tailor your application; don't just list what you've done - explain how your experience aligns with the project goals or challenges that the company is facing. Use the SMART technique to describe your experience with examples.

2025 Projects to Watch

Several major CAPEX projects and maintenance overhauls are planned across Queensland and Western Australia in the back half of 2025. These include:

  • Electrical infrastructure upgrades tied to decarbonisation targets

  • Expansion work on legacy mines requiring complex power distribution solutions

  • Increased activity in the coal seam gas sector, especially in instrumentation and control

What this means for you:

Now’s a good time to connect with an engineering recruitment consultant, even if you're not looking. These projects will create permanent and contract opportunities over the next 6-12 months.

Whether you're open to a move now or just keeping an eye on the market, staying informed gives you a professional edge. If you’d like a confidential chat about where your skills sit in the current landscape or to be considered for upcoming roles, get in touch with our team.

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