Manufacturing engineer
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work evenings and weekends
- Usually work in offices, workshops, factories and manufacturing sites
- May work in noisy and dirty conditions
- Need to be accurate, safety conscious and identify and solve problems
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Design and develop manufacturing equipment and systems
- Improve processes and systems
- Find and fix operational problems
- Improve equipment efficiency
- Write and record technical information
- Draw equipment plans and designs
- Write detailed reports
- Give technical expertise and advice
Outlook
Manufacturing engineering is evolving as New Zealand firms adopt automation, robotics, digital production data and lower-emissions processes. Advanced manufacturing is a national priority, particularly in specialist and export-focused industries. Supply-chain disruption has also increased interest in resilient local production. Opportunities can vary by sector and investment levels, but engineers who improve quality, productivity and sustainability will remain important.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong engineering knowledge and practical problem-solving ability
- Ability to improve production processes using data and evidence
- Understanding of quality, safety and continuous improvement
- Confidence with automation, digital systems and manufacturing technology
- Ability to communicate effectively with technical and production teams
- Awareness of cost, waste reduction and sustainable production
AUT programmes
- Mechanical Engineering Major - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Mechanical Engineering Major - Bachelor of Engineering Technology
- Mechatronics Engineering Major - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
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