GHD Graduate Program 2026/27 – Cairns – Graduate Mechanical Engineer

We don’t do hair. But we do straighten out some of the world’s biggest challenges. 

We’re engineers, scientists, designers, architects, planners, advisors, innovators and change makers, committed to making energy, water and communities sustainable for generations to come. 

Since 1928, we’ve been wholly owned by our employees. Today, we are 11,000 diverse and skilled individuals working in over 160 offices across five continents — Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America, and the Pacific region. 

In Cairns, our Civil, Dams & Water Infrastructure - Water Linear Infrastructure team is looking for our next Graduate Mechanical Engineer to join us in 2027!

Based in our Cairns office and holding a degree in Mechanical Engineering, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to the delivery of critical water infrastructure projects that support communities across Far North Queensland and Australia. If you're interested in solving complex engineering challenges, working on essential infrastructure, and developing your skills as part of a multidisciplinary team, this could be the role for you.

A little more about the role can be found below:

• Assist in the planning, design, and delivery of water infrastructure projects, including pipelines, pump stations, treatment facilities, and associated mechanical systems.
• Support the development of mechanical designs, calculations, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with civil, structural, process, electrical, and environmental engineers on multidisciplinary projects.
• Undertake engineering analysis and modelling using industry-standard software and tools.
• Participate in site visits, inspections, and condition assessments across Far North Queensland to gain practical project experience.
• Contribute to the evaluation, selection, and specification of pumps, valves, pipelines, and other mechanical equipment.
• Work alongside experienced engineers and technical specialists to develop practical, sustainable engineering solutions for clients.

This role offers exposure to a diverse range of projects across the water, dams, and linear infrastructure sectors, providing an excellent foundation for a career in mechanical engineering while supporting the growth and resilience of communities throughout the region.

Our two-year Graduate Development Program is designed to give you a smooth start to your consulting career. Alongside your peers, managers and mentors, we’ll help you detangle any challenges along the way. You’ll work collaboratively with peers across other disciplines within GHD, as well as with our clients, and connect across the business to share insights, knowledge and improve your overall technical capabilities. 

We want your journey to be as smooth as possible, so here’s everything you need to help you prep like a pro: 

• Your CV: This gives us a snapshot of what you’ve studied and your experiences, both paid and unpaid.  
• A cover letter: Think of this as your chance to show us where you’d love to grow within GHD, while letting your communication skills shine.  
• Your transcript: This helps us understand what you’ve been learning, from your core subjects to the electives that sparked your curiosity.  

Most of our full-time roles kick off in February 2027, though some teams might have earlier start dates in mid-2026. Plus, there might also be casual work opportunities throughout your final year of study to give you a head start. 

If you’ve got your documents polished and prepped, the application should only take 10-15 minutes. Apply now and take the first step toward an exciting career in consulting. 

At GHD, we don’t just believe in the power of commitment, we live and breathe it every day.  
 
Community impact is important to us, influencing how we work, our projects and how we give back. Our GHD in the Community program partners with not-for-profit organisations so that we can work on pro-bono projects, as well as volunteering and fundraising for philanthropic and humanitarian causes. As a business, we also channel some of our profits into the GHD Foundation, a registered charity that addresses disadvantage and inequality in children accessing STEAM education in the countries where we live and work. 

Within GHD, our employee groups and networks help us foster community, find our tribe, and celebrate what makes us unique. These groups play a big part in our global diversity, equity and inclusion strategy, creating spaces for meaningful and safe conversations, connecting with likeminded individuals, and creating a voice to leadership.  

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