Mechanical Engineering Cadetship 2026

BlueScope is an Australian-born global success story spanning 15 countries. Our team of over 16,500 people is our strength and we want our people to be safe, successful and well. We’re leaders and innovators in transforming steel into smart products and solutions that support society, today and in the future. We’re proud of brands, like COLORBOND® steel that inspire and protect everything from hospitals to bridges and stadiums.

At BlueScope, we’re looking for passionate, future-focused students who are ready to start their journey into the world of engineering.  Our Port Kembla Manufacturing facility is looking for Mechanical Engineering Cadets, who are ready to commence in January 2026.  

Our Cadetship program at BlueScope creates an opportunity to accelerate your personal and professional growth as you combine paid work with study; a two-for-one situation placing you far ahead of your peers!

Cadetships provide a combination of part-time study and part-time work, where you will attend university classes one day a week. If you are commencing straight from year 12, you will work casually for your first year and attend university full-time.  

What Will You Do?

Working with, and under the guidance of our engineers and tradespeople, you’ll gain invaluable on the job experience of our equipment and operations. Your exposure will include fitting, maintenance planning and detailed design work, and an opportunity to be involved in project and strategy planning. This will provide you with an understanding of the fundamentals of the equipment that either makes or processes our steel, and the critical and different roles that mechanical engineers play in steel manufacturing.  

With ongoing mentoring and support, you’ll understand the fundamentals of our equipment, having the opportunity to work within the engineering departments where you will design and project manage our equipment improvements and installations.  

Rotating through various departments, you’ll be able to undergo real-life tasks that are relevant to what you’re studying. This amazing opportunity equips you with the knowledge and skills to lead you into a long-term career, becoming a professional in engineering design, project management, asset management and maintenance, or allowing you to follow other career opportunities at BlueScope and beyond.  

More About You

We welcome students from all backgrounds who are excited to challenge themselves, try new things, and be part of a future shaped by innovative ideas, bold thinking, and meaningful work. Engineering is as much about creativity and impact as they are about technical skills.

We'd love to hear from you, if you find yourself answering "yes" to the below:

• Are you a Year 12 student who’s ready to turn your curiosity into a career, and has the subjects lined up to study Mechanical Engineering at the University of Wollongong (UOW)?
• Or maybe you're already at university (in your 1st or 2nd year) currently studying, or open to transferring into Mechanical Engineering at UOW?
• Do you want to be part of a team where you’ll do real, hands-on work that matters, helping shape not only how we work and what we create, but also the world we live in?

Please note, it is a requirement to upload a copy of your resume and academic transcript as part of your application. 

What's in it for me?

When you join our Cadetship program, you’re not just gaining work experience, you’re stepping into a world of opportunity, growth, and real-world impact.

• Get ahead while still studying - Start building your career now. Learn real-world skills related to your studies. You’ll develop practical, hands-on skills that directly relate to what you're learning at university, giving you a clear advantage and the confidence to realise your goals early
• Work on real projects with real impact- Rotating through various departments, you'll contribute to the outcomes of multiple diverse projects. Every placement is tailored to your stage of study, helping you connect classroom theory with practical experience
• Your growth matters to us - Our development programs aim to invest in you and your personal growth, your goals, and your future. From technical training to personal development, we’ll support you in becoming an engineer or scientist who stands out, both personally and professionally
• Earn while you learn - As a paid Cadet, you’ll earn a competitive salary while receiving financial support for your studies. We’ll also give you dedicated time during the week to attend university classes and sit exams
• Strong support network - You’ll be mentored by experienced leaders and professionals who want to see you succeed. You’ll be guided, encouraged, and empowered every step of the way by a team who believes in your potential

Since its inception almost 50 years ago, hundreds of Cadets have been guided through their journey alongside seasoned professionals, growing into the BlueScope leaders making a difference today. We’re not just building careers, we’re building the future, and that future could start with you.

Click here for more information on BlueScope Cadetships and watch the videos to learn more from our Engineering Cadets. 

Applications close Sunday 17th August 2025.