A Production Manager leads the planning and control of manufacturing, mining, and forestry operations. They are responsible for output quality, cost control, and team results. Most roles require a degree in engineering, industrial technology, or business management.
Day to day, they set production plans and track key results. They align labour, equipment, and budgets to meet targets. They report to senior leadership on production outcomes.
This role requires a deep knowledge of health and safety law. They also direct research into new methods and oversee the setup of new equipment. Membership with Engineers Australia or a relevant body can help career growth.
There are 64,700 Production Managers in Australia, with 96% in full-time roles (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The role offers a median salary of around $119,000 a year and steady growth in jobs.
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.