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Elsie Killick

from working at a fast food restaurant to Project Engineer
I help build roads and structures safely, on time and on budget
Industry
Construction and infrastructure
Company
John Holland - Sponsored by Construction Pathways
Job Level
Mid

Ask me about

  • How my role allows me to be creative
  • What a typical day in my role involves
  • How to ensure a bridge or a road doesn't fall down
  • The biggest thing I've ever built

About me

  • Regional Background

In Year 10, I was torn between engineering and architecture, so I did work experience in both fields. I chose engineering because of the diverse career pathways it offered. During university, I worked part-time as a cadet engineer for a structural consulting firm while completing my degree. After three years in structural consulting post-graduation, I realised I wanted a more hands-on role in project delivery. That led me to civil construction, where I started as a Site Engineer and instantly loved the dynamic environment. Since then, I’ve moved from Tasmania to Queensland and progressed to Project Engineer, managing projects that combine technical expertise with practical problem-solving.

About my role

  • Analytical
  • Creative
  • Disciplined
  • Meticulous
  • Perfectionist

A Project Engineer in civil construction oversees the planning and execution of construction projects, ensuring they are delivered safely, on time, and within budget. They act as a key link between design teams, contractors, and clients, translating technical plans into practical solutions on-site. Their responsibilities include coordinating resources, managing schedules, monitoring quality standards, and resolving issues that arise during construction. They also ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations while optimising efficiency and cost-effectiveness. By combining technical knowledge with strong communication and problem-solving skills, a Project Engineer plays a critical role in turning infrastructure designs—such as roads, bridges, and drainage systems—into reality.

Education

  • Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Hons)

Subjects

  • Art
  • Chemistry
  • English
  • Geography
  • Mathematical Methods (Maths B)
  • Physics
  • Science
  • Specialist Mathematics (Maths C)

Hobbies

  • Gardening
  • Golf
  • Interior design
  • Reading
  • Seeing family and friends

15 year old me!!

“Identify what you can and cannot control and focus on what is in your control.”

My career journey

Curious to know how I got here? Here’s a snapshot of my career pathway.
  1. Chose between architecture and engineering
  2. Studied engineering in Tasmania
  3. Worked as a Structural Consultant
  4. Changed career paths to construction
  5. Moved to Queensland

My typical day

My employer

Through UNIQ You’s partnership with Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) we have been able to welcome construction advisors from CSQ’s Major Contractor Partners. Read more about this Advisors employer below. From humble beginnings 75 years ago, John Holland is proud to be one of Australia's leading building, rail and transport, infrastructure and energy infrastructure companies.