Steel Producer

Steel Producer

The Australian steel industry produces over five million tonnes of steel a year, manufacturing a broad range of steel and steel products. A producer in the structural steel market delivers products including steel beams, plate, tubes, pipes and wire products.

Steel producers provide a range of employment prospects in the fields of materials, mechanical, chemical, electrical and mechatronic engineering, metallurgy, IT, HR, accounting and sales. You could go into leadership and become a team supervisor, or a plant manager.


What does a steel producer do?

Studies blueprints, drawings and specifications to determine job requirements

Smelts iron ore to produce steel products, ready for fabrication

Casts and rolls steel to products like reinforcing bars, mesh, plate and coil

Operates heavy machinery like cranes and forklifts

Picks and packs orders for delivery to customers

Uses innovative technology

What qualifications do I need?

A Certificate III is required to become a steel producer. To attain this certification, you will need to have competed Year 11 or equivalent. It is recommended you combine your coursework with a trade, to ensure you build practical skills while you learn. 

Examples of TAFE courses:

  • Certificate II in Engineering – Production Technology
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Production Systems, Mechanical Trade, Fabrication Trade or Electrical/Electronic Trade

What skills do I need?

  • Teamwork and communication 
  • Problem solving and critical thinking 
  • Good with technology
  • Enjoy working with your hands 
  • Ability to read plans and drawings 
  • Enthusiasm, punctuality and precision

Average salary

A typical entry level position starts from $75,000 per year and with more experience and expertise can increase to $90,000 + per year.*

*Salary or wage variations may depend on region and state, or the amount of overtime worked.

Why opt for a career in steel?

The steel industry has a profound impact on our daily lives. From the cars we drive, and the houses we live in, to the roads and bridges we travel across every day, the steel industry shapes our world. With a career in steel, students can play a part in this vital industry. Access our resources below to engage your students with the steel industry.