Design and build the aircraft and spacecraft shaping the future of flight and space exploration.

Aerospace engineering covers both aeronautical (aircraft) and astronautical (spacecraft) fields, involving the design, development, and testing of aircraft, satellites, and space systems. You’ll apply physics, maths, and engineering skills to create components like engines, wings and navigation systems, use specialised software to model and simulate designs and test prototypes in wind tunnels or labs to ensure systems meet safety and performance standards.

This role often involves collaboration with scientists, technicians, and manufacturers to solve technical challenges and deliver efficient, high-performing aerospace technologies.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, demand is growing for aerospace professionals across aviation, defence, and space.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Design and test aerospace systems and parts
• Use data and simulations to improve performance
• Help build and test aircraft in labs or outdoor sites

This role suits people who:
Are curious, logical, and passionate about space, tech, and solving problems.

Pathway:
Typically, this role requires university level study in Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering.

Keep aircraft in top flying condition by maintaining and repairing the mechanical systems that power flight.

As an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, you’ll work on engines, flight control systems, and critical hydromechanical components. You’ll inspect, test, repair, and install aircraft systems to ensure everything functions safely and efficiently. From routine checks to complex repairs, your work keeps planes airworthy and passengers safe.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are in demand to support regional airports, tourism operators, and growing aviation services. It’s a hands-on, high-responsibility role vital to the region’s transport and safety network.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Dismantle, inspect, test, and repair aircraft engines and systems
• Install and maintain electrical circuits and communication equipment
• Conduct routine pre-flight inspections of engines and mechanical systems
• Maintain records of repairs and testing

This role suits people who:
Enjoy hands-on mechanical work, are safety-conscious, and have a strong interest in aviation and engineering.

Pathway:
Requires a Certificate IV in Aeroskills typically completed through an apprenticeship with further university pathways available to expand qualifications.

Take to the skies and guide aircraft safely through take-off, flight, and landing—whether transporting people, freight, or supporting vital aerial services.

As a Pilot, you’ll operate aeroplanes for commercial, freight, agricultural, or emergency services. You’ll prepare detailed flight plans, check weather conditions, inspect the aircraft, and communicate with air traffic control to ensure every flight runs smoothly and safely. Precision, calm decision-making, and strong situational awareness are key to success in this high-responsibility role.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Pilots play a crucial role in connecting communities, supporting the tourism and resources sectors, and providing vital services like medical transfers and aerial surveillance.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Prepare and submit flight plans based on weather and aircraft performance
• Conduct pre-flight inspections and cockpit checks
• Operate aircraft in line with air traffic and safety procedures
• Monitor flight performance and report mechanical issues

This role suits people who:
Stay calm under pressure, enjoy solving problems, and like working with advanced technology and data.

Pathway:
Requires a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), usually gained through a combination of flight school training and aviation theory study.

Keep aircraft systems safe and reliable by installing, inspecting, and repairing electronic and navigational equipment.

Avionics is all about the electronic systems used in aircraft, like navigation, communication, and control systems. As an Avionics Technician, you’ll work on aircraft systems to diagnose faults, carry out routine maintenance, and upgrade avionics technology to ensure aircraft meet strict safety and performance standards. Accuracy and technical skill are essential to keep flights safe and on schedule.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Avionics Technicians support a growing aviation industry, servicing aircraft used in tourism, industry, and community transport.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Install, inspect, and repair aircraft electronic systems
• Test and calibrate navigation and communication equipment
• Diagnose faults and perform routine maintenance
• Maintain detailed service records and compliance documentation

This role suits people who:
Are detail-oriented, enjoy technical problem-solving, and have strong hand-eye coordination.

Pathway:
Requires completion of a Certificate III or IV in Aeroskills (Avionics) and relevant licensing or registration.

Be at the heart of airport activity—where safety, coordination, and fast thinking keep flights moving and operations on track.

As an Airport Operations Officer, you’ll carry out inspections, manage wildlife hazards, maintain airport grounds and facilities, and ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations. You’ll also assist with emergency procedures, monitor access to secure areas, and communicate with airport stakeholders. This hands-on role is key to keeping airports safe, serviceable, and running smoothly.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Airport Operations Officers play a vital role in supporting regional airports that connect communities, industries, and tourism.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Inspect and maintain runways, lighting, and airport facilities
• Manage wildlife hazards and maintain airport grounds
• Monitor airport access and support emergency response
• Maintain records and communicate with airport teams

This role suits people who:
Enjoy practical outdoor work, are safety-focused, and work well under pressure.

Pathway:
Often requires a Certificate III or IV in Aviation (Aerodrome Operations) with on-the-job training.

Ensure the safety and comfort of passengers while delivering exceptional service in the sky.

As Cabin Crew, you’ll manage in-flight safety procedures, perform safety demonstrations, respond to emergencies, and provide customer service by serving meals, assisting passengers, and making announcements. The role requires confidence, professionalism, and strong decision-making skills in dynamic environments.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Cabin Crew support growing regional aviation by helping connect industry workers, local communities, and tourism to our region from major destinations across Australia.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Conduct safety checks and emergency demonstrations
• Serve food, drinks, and assist with passenger comfort
• Manage public announcements and in-flight sales
• Assist and direct passengers during emergencies

This role suits people who:
Want to travel and explore, are calm in challenging situations, and have excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Pathway:
No formal qualifications are required, but VET courses in hospitality or customer service are helpful. Airlines provide extensive in-house safety and service training.

Guide aircraft safely through the skies and across runways, making sure every take-off and landing is timed, coordinated, and controlled.

As an Air Traffic Controller, you’ll manage aircraft movements on the ground and in controlled airspace. You’ll give pilots clearance for taxiing, take-off, and landing, monitor radar systems, and provide critical flight information to ensure safe distances between aircraft. It’s a fast-paced, high-focus role requiring strong decision-making and communication skills.

In the Greater Whitsunday region, Air Traffic Controllers are essential to support regional airports, helping to manage growing passenger and freight services while maintaining the highest safety standards.

What you might do day-to-day:

• Direct aircraft taxiing, take-offs, and landings via radio communication
• Monitor radar and manage traffic in controlled airspace
• Provide pre-flight briefings and aeronautical information
• Respond to emergencies and changing flight conditions

This role suits people who:
Are calm under pressure, quick-thinking, and confident making decisions in real time.

Pathway:
Requires training through Airservices Australia and completion of an Air Traffic Control course.