A Mechanical Engineering Technician ANZSCO 312512 plays a vital role in supporting mechanical engineers and technologists by conducting tests, assembling mechanical systems, and analyzing data to ensure smooth operation. As Australia faces increasing demand for skilled engineering technicians, this occupation is featured in various skilled migration programs, offering multiple visa pathways for qualified professionals.
This guide explores the role, skills assessment process, and visa options for Mechanical Engineering Technicians seeking to live and work in Australia.
Role and Responsibilities of a Mechanical Engineering Technician
Mechanical Engineering Technicians assist in mechanical research, design, manufacturing, and maintenance. Their primary duties include:
- Conducting tests on mechanical systems, components, and materials to ensure compliance with technical standards.
- Preparing mechanical designs, plans, and sketches based on engineering requirements.
- Selecting appropriate tools and equipment for mechanical engineering projects.
- Assembling, installing, and modifying mechanical assemblies, machine tools, and hydraulic power systems.
- Estimating material costs and quantities for mechanical projects.
- Supervising inspection and maintenance of mechanical installations and plant equipment.
- Collecting and analyzing engineering data for research, design, and troubleshooting purposes.
- Ensuring that designs and final work comply with regulations, specifications, and contract provisions.
Skills Assessment for Mechanical Engineering Technicians
A skills assessment is required for skilled migration visas, and Mechanical Engineering Technicians must obtain a positive assessment from Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).
TRA Skills Assessment Criteria
- Qualification Requirement: Must have successfully completed an AQF Certificate IV in Engineering or equivalent formal training.
- Current Industry Experience: Must demonstrate at least 12 months full-time employment (or equivalent part-time) in the occupation within the past three years.
- International Qualifications: If the qualification was obtained outside Australia (or not through Australian Recognition of Prior Learning), the applicant must demonstrate 3 years of full-time post-qualification experience.
- Australian RPL Qualification Holders: Those who obtained an Australian qualification through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) must demonstrate either 3 years of post-qualification full-time experience or 6 years of total full-time experience (pre- or post-qualification).
Applicants must ensure their qualifications and experience meet Australian industry standards to receive a positive TRA skills assessment.
Visa Pathways for Mechanical Engineering Technicians
Mechanical Engineering Technicians (ANZSCO 312512) are included in Australia’s skilled migration program, offering multiple visa pathways for permanent and temporary migration.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
The Subclass 190 visa is a permanent residency visa that requires nomination from an Australian state or territory. Each state has different criteria and occupation lists, so applicants should check the latest state migration requirements.
This visa provides full work and study rights in Australia. To qualify, applicants must have a positive TRA skills assessment and meet the required points threshold. Additionally, they must commit to living and working in the nominated state for a specified period.
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 491 visa is a five-year regional work visa that provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa. This visa requires either state nomination or family sponsorship from an eligible relative living in a regional area.
Applicants must meet the points test, hold a positive skills assessment, and work in a designated regional area for at least three years to qualify for permanent residency under the Subclass 191 visa.
Subclass 407 – Training Visa
The Subclass 407 visa allows individuals to participate in occupational training programs in Australia. It is a temporary visa designed for professional development or skill enhancement.
To be eligible, applicants must have an approved training sponsor, meet English language requirements, and show that their training aligns with Australia’s workforce needs. This visa provides an opportunity to gain Australian experience before applying for skilled migration pathways.
Subclass 494 – Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 494 visa allows regional employers to sponsor skilled workers in high-demand occupations. This visa requires a minimum of three years of relevant work experience, a positive skills assessment, and employer sponsorship.
The visa provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 191 visa after three years of work in regional Australia.
Subclass 482 – Skills in Demand Visa (Specialist Skills Pathway)
The Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID) visa – Specialist Skills Pathway replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa and allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to fill critical skill shortages.
Applicants must have at least one year of relevant work experience, be nominated by an Australian employer, and meet English language requirements. This visa offers a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa.
Why Choose VisaTasker?
VisaTasker is a trusted migration consultancy specializing in skilled migration for technical professionals. Our MARA-registered migration agents offer personalized solutions tailored to each applicant’s qualifications and career goals and ensures that your migration process is smooth and successful, from TRA skills assessments to visa lodgments.
Contact today and take the first step toward a successful migration journey as a Mechanical Engineering Technician in Australia.