A Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson ANZSCO 312511 plays a crucial role in the engineering industry by creating detailed technical drawings and plans that support mechanical engineers and engineering technologists. These professionals are essential in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure, ensuring mechanical components and systems are accurately designed and implemented.
With Australia experiencing a growing demand for engineering professionals, this occupation is recognized in skilled migration programs, offering multiple pathways for skilled workers to live and work in Australia.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the role, skills assessment process, and visa eligibility for Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons seeking to migrate to Australia.
Role and Responsibilities of a Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson
Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons assist engineers in the design, construction, and maintenance of mechanical systems and structures. Their key responsibilities include:
Preparing detailed technical drawings and schematics for machinery, tools, and mechanical components.
Assisting mechanical engineers in designing equipment, ventilation systems, and tools.
Selecting appropriate materials, tools, and manufacturing techniques for mechanical components.
Assembling and installing machine tools, controls, and hydraulic power systems.
Conducting laboratory and field tests to analyze materials and mechanical performance.
Estimating costs and material quantities for projects.
Supervising maintenance and inspection of mechanical systems and industrial plants.
Ensuring compliance with engineering specifications, regulations, and contract provisions.
Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to develop blueprints and collaborate closely with engineers to optimize designs for manufacturing and construction.
Skills Assessment for Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons
To apply for a skilled visa, Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons must undergo a skills assessment conducted by Engineers Australia.
Pathways for Skills Assessment
1️⃣ Pathway A – Accredited Qualification
If you hold an accredited qualification, you may be eligible under:
✔ Australian Qualification Pathway – for applicants with an Australian engineering degree accredited by Engineers Australia.
✔ Washington Accord, Sydney Accord, or Dublin Accord qualifications – for applicants from countries that are signatories to these agreements.
✔ Other Recognized Qualifications – for degrees evaluated as equivalent to Australian standards.
2️⃣ Pathway B – Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) Pathway
For applicants without accredited qualifications, a Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) is required, including:
✔ Three Career Episodes – demonstrating relevant engineering experience.
✔ Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Report – showcasing professional training and industry involvement.
✔ Summary Statement – aligning competencies with Engineers Australia’s assessment criteria.
✔ Employer Reference Letter – confirming employment history and job responsibilities.
English Requirement: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent in all bands.
Did You Know?
If applying through an Accord Qualification Pathway, Engineers Australia will only consider qualifications obtained after the country became a full signatory.
Visa Pathways for Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons
Mechanical Engineering Draftspersons (ANZSCO 312511) are included in Australia’s skilled migration program, providing access to permanent and temporary visa options.
| Visa | Pathway | PR Pathway |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 190 | Skilled Nominated Visa | ✅ Yes |
| Subclass 491 | Skilled Work Regional Visa | ✅ Yes (Subclass 191) |
| Subclass 186 | Employer Nomination Scheme | ✅ Yes |
| Subclass 494 | Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa | ✅ Yes (Subclass 191) |
| Subclass 482 | Skills in Demand (SID) Visa – Core Skills Pathway | ✅ Yes (Subclass 186) |
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 visa is a state-nominated permanent residency visa requiring nomination by an Australian state or territory.
✔ PR status with full work rights.
✔ Requires a positive skills assessment and state nomination.
✔ Applicants must commit to living in the nominating state for at least two years.
Best for: Candidates willing to live in a specific Australian state.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 491 visa is a 5-year regional work visa with a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa.
✔ Requires state nomination or family sponsorship.
✔ Live and work in regional Australia for five years.
✔ Eligible for PR through Subclass 191 after three years.
Best for: Migrants willing to work in regional Australia.
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) Visa
The Subclass 186 visa is a permanent employer-sponsored visa.
✔ Requires 3 years of full-time work experience.
✔ Employer sponsorship needed.
✔ A positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia required.
Best for: Skilled workers with an Australian job offer.
Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa
The Subclass 494 visa is a regional employer-sponsored visa with a pathway to PR.
✔ Requires a job offer from a regional employer.
✔ Leads to PR through Subclass 191 after 3 years.
✔ Applicants must work for the sponsoring employer.
Best for: Skilled workers willing to work in regional Australia.
Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand (SID) Visa – Core Skills Pathway
The Skills in Demand (SID) visa has replaced the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 visa for employer-sponsored workers under the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL).
✔ Valid for up to 4 years with employer sponsorship.
✔ Requires 1 year of relevant work experience.
✔ Pathway to permanent residency via Subclass 186 (ENS) visa.
Best for: Skilled workers with an Australian employer sponsorship.
Why Choose VisaTasker?
At VisaTasker, we provide expert guidance to ensure that your skills assessment and visa application processes are handled correctly. Our MARA-registered migration agents specialize in engineering and technical occupations, offering personalized solutions tailored to your qualifications and experience. From skills assessments to EOI submissions and visa lodgments, we provide comprehensive support at every step. With a high success rate, we help skilled professionals secure their visas efficiently.
Contact VisaTasker today to begin your journey as a Mechanical Engineering Draftsperson in Australia!