Science and Engineering Occupations
Science and engineering occupations have experienced strong employment growth in recent years, with demand partly driven by the continued growth of high-value sub-sectors such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and research and development (R&D), which have performed well in recent years. However, employers face persistent recruitment difficulties, alongside a need to upskill the existing workforce in response to technological, regulatory, and industrial change. Advances in artificial intelligence are likely to reshape how work is carried out, with productivity gains expected to outweigh displacement effects, but increasing the need for workers to adapt to new tools and work processes. Additional opportunities continue to emerge from the green transition, while evolving regulatory, compliance, and quality requirements will continue to raise the demand for specialised technical expertise.
Employment growth is expected to continue to 2030, with above average growth for these occupations. This growth is projected to be driven primarily by the foreign-owned manufacturing sector. Within the occupations in this group, the strongest growth is projected for production managers.
Shortages
• Scientists: chemical, R&D
• Engineers:
o mechanical, electrical, automation, and EHS
o quality control/assurance, process, design, and manufacturing
• Engineering technicians: maintenance, electrical, and mechanical
See National Skills Bulletin 2026 for more details.