Job Description

Downer is committed to developing the next generation of industry leaders. Our Transport & Infrastructure Cadet Program offers first and second year university students the opportunity to gain hands-on industry experience while completing their studies.

We are looking for motivated university students to join our 2027 Cadet Program, with opportunities available in both Queensland and Victoria. Successful candidates will initially commence their first placement within our Commercial team. Through structured rotations across Downer's Transport & Infrastructure business, you'll gain practical experience, develop industry skills, and build a strong foundation for your future career.

Our cadet program offers:

• Paid placement aligned to your degree
• Structured rotations across multiple teams
• Full-time summer work, with optional casual work during semesters
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Opportunities across Australia

About the Cadet Program

Our Cadet Program is designed to give first and second year undergraduate students meaningful industry experience while completing their studies.

Over the course of the program, you'll gain exposure to different areas of Downer's Transport & Infrastructure business through a series of structured placements. These rotations are designed to broaden your understanding of the infrastructure industry, develop practical skills aligned to your field of study, and provide insight into the diverse career opportunities available within Downer.

The program typically runs for three years and includes a compulsory block of full-time work during the summer university break, with opportunities for casual work throughout the academic year. Throughout the program, you'll gain hands-on experience, work alongside experienced professionals, and contribute to live projects across the business.

Placements may include:

• Onsite contracting projects with delivery crews
• Project engineering and management
• Contract and commercial management
• Asphalt production
• Major infrastructure projects (e.g., airports)
• Laboratory testing and innovation
• Finance and business operations

When does the Program commence?

Our Cadet Induction is scheduled for Monday 30th November and Tuesday 1st December 2026, kicking off the first structured rotation. All successful candidates must be available for this mandatory Induction. 

Program eligibility

• You must be available on Monday 30th November and Tuesday 1st December 2026 for the Cadet Induction.
• You must be available for full-time work from the Induction days through to late February 2027 prior to the recommencement of university semester - note: you must be available for full-time work for the same period each subsequent year of the Cadet Program (i.e. late November to late February).
• You must have permanent working rights in Australia.
• You must hold a current Australian Driver’s License.
• You must be enrolled in your first or second year of an undergraduate degree, studying in discipline/s of:

  • Engineering

  • Finance (Accounting)

  • Commerce

  • Occupational Health & Safety

  • Science

  • Law

  • Business

What we look for

Key competencies assessed through our recruitment process include:

• Self awareness
• Resilience and the ability to embrace change
• Ability to learn and apply new learning quickly
• Willingness to work within a team
• Organisation skills
• Problem solving, you love to think outside the square!
• Communication skills

How we hire

Applications for the Cadet Program will close on Friday 18th September 2026. If you’re successful in progressing to the next stage of the recruitment process, our team will be in contact with you.

Candidates selected to progress through the recruitment process. Including:

• Participating in interviews (video and face-to-face).
• Provide university transcripts.
• Complete a pre-employment medical.
• Share professional references.

Downer Group is an employer that acknowledges and embraces the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from everyone.