After relocating from Iran, Danial Mansoori has found opportunity, community and a new chapter in his engineering career at IPS.
When Danial Mansoori moved to Australia from Iran in March last year, he was ready for a fresh start – but restarting a career in engineering in a new country would take more than just passion. Now a Project Engineer at IPS, Danial has successfully transitioned into the Australian workforce, thanks to his talent, perseverance and the support of Engineers Australia’s Global Engineering Talent (GET) Program.
Engineering expertise built on Iran’s largest gas fields
Danial’s early fascination with how things worked set the foundation for his career in engineering. “As a child, I was always pulling things apart to see how they worked,” he said. “That curiosity turned into a love for problem solving and designing practical solutions.”
He went on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, drawn to the combination of theory and real-world application. “Engineering gives you this amazing opportunity to make a tangible impact, improving systems, building infrastructure and seeing real outcomes. That sense of purpose and impact is what really motivates me.”
Starting out as a Field Engineer in Iran, Danial’s career progressed through project management and into major operations roles, eventually contributing to one of the world’s largest gas fields. “I was preparing engineering documents, overseeing contractors and managing large-scale drilling operations. It gave me a solid foundation.”
When he and his wife decided to move to Australia, he knew he would be navigating an entirely new landscape. “I wanted to continue doing what I love, but I knew I needed to understand the local industry first,” he said.
That’s where the GET Program came in.
Bridging the gap with the GET Program
“I did a lot of research and came across the GET Program through Engineers Australia. It’s designed to help overseas-trained engineers like me transition into the Australian workforce,” Danial said.
Delivered online in six phases, the program covers Australian engineering standards, communication skills, ethics, and risk management. It also includes a simulated project, which in Danial’s case involved designing a clean energy system, followed by a real-world placement with a host company.
Danial completed his placement with IPS, working on a wastewater reduction project, and hasn’t looked back since. “The program helped me bridge the gap between my international experience and local expectations. It gave me confidence, hands-on experience, and opened the door to where I am now.”
A new start at IPS in Brisbane
Today, Danial works at IPS as a Project Manager, contributing to water recycling and treatment plant projects across Queensland.
“My role is quite dynamic. Each day I could be reviewing scopes of work, risk assessments or making sure projects align with budgets and timelines. I really enjoy the mix of office work and being out on site.”
He especially values the supportive culture at IPS. “What I love most about IPS is the leadership, it’s a team that makes you feel supported and walks alongside you. That means a lot to me. I’ve only been here a few months, but I’ve already made so many friends. Everyone’s been so welcoming.”
Danial and his wife have embraced their new life in Brisbane. “Brisbane offers such a great mix of lifestyle and opportunity. The beaches, the rainforests, the weather – its’ beautiful. It’s a multicultural city and a great place to start fresh. We’re really enjoying this new chapter and looking forward to building our life and our family here.”
The couple have already begun exploring their new home, taking road trips and weekend getaways across Queensland. “Every trip feels like a new experience. We’ve loved exploring the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, and there’s still so much more we want to see, like Sydney and Melbourne. They’re on the bucket list!”
Danial is excited about the future and eager to give back by sharing his experience with other engineers. “In the next few years, I’d love to continue growing my career, take on more multidisciplinary projects, develop my technical and leadership skills, and get chartered. I’m especially interested in sustainability and innovation. I also hope to help others who are on this journey and just starting out in Australia.”
He credits the GET Program with playing a pivotal role in his journey and strongly recommends it to other overseas-trained engineers. “If you’re new to Australia and trying to get your foot in the door, the GET Program is a great way to build confidence, get exposure and make industry connections, and apply your skills in a real way. It helped me bridge the gap and led me to this opportunity at IPS.”
His advice for new graduates or those restarting their careers? “Stay open and curious. Engineering is so broad, so explore different areas and you’ll discover where your strengths and passions lie. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. That’s where the real growth happens. Even if things don’t go to plan, that’s okay. Detours can lead to the best opportunities.”
Danial is quick to acknowledge those who’ve supported him along the way. “I want to thank IPS for welcoming me and giving me the opportunity to be part of the team. I’m grateful and excited for what’s ahead.”
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