Homestead Careers and Pathways Newsletter

Career Focus Information

Further Job Spotlights can be found on our Careers News > Careers Spotlights google sites page.

In this Issue:

How to become a Chef

How to become a Policy Analyst

How to become a Retail Assistant

10 jobs for people who love reading

How to become an Industrial Designer

How to become an Anthropologist

 

At the bottom of this page is a list of careers listed in previous issues.

How to become a Chef

Chefs are the creative masterminds behind delicious meals in restaurants, cafés, hotels, and catering companies. They plan menus, prepare food, manage kitchen staff, and ensure every dish meets high standards of taste, presentation, and food safety.

If you love food, thrive in fast-paced environments, and enjoy leading a team, a career as a chef could be perfect for you.

 

What skills do I need as a chef?

  • Creative and innovative
  • Excellent time management
  • Can work well under pressure
  • Strong leadership abilities
  • Great attention to detail
  • Physically resilient
  • Adaptable and reliable
  • Passionate about food and cooking

 

What does the job involve?

  • Planning and creating menus
  • Preparing, cooking, and presenting food
  • Ordering ingredients and managing budgets
  • Leading and training other kitchen staff
  • Ensuring food safety and hygiene standards
  • Monitoring food quality and consistency
  • Coordinating with front-of-house staff
  • Managing kitchen equipment and inventory

 

What industries do chefs typically work in?

  • Accommodation and Food Services
  • Health Care and Social Assistance

 

What Career Cluster do chefs belong to?

This is a hands-on career that requires a high level of both technical skill and specialist knowledge, so most chefs fall into the Maker Cluster.

 

What kind of lifestyle can I expect?

Most chefs work split shifts, with preparation time during the day and service during evening hours. Weekend and holiday work is common, as that's when hospitality venues are typically busiest. You'll be on your feet for hours, working in hot environments, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Chef salaries vary significantly based on experience, location, and type of establishment, but most chefs can expect to earn an average wage throughout their careers.

You won't be able to work from home as a chef, as you will need to physically be in the kitchen to prepare food and perform other important duties. But some experienced chefs do move into roles like food writing, recipe development, or culinary consulting that can offer more flexibility.

 

How to become a chef

To become a successful chef, you’ll need to learn the practical skills required for the job. This is usually done through a combination of relevant educational training and hands-on work experience.

Many chefs start with formal culinary education through certificate or diploma courses at culinary schools or vocational institutions. These programmes cover cooking techniques, food safety, menu planning, and kitchen management, and are typically done as part of an apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning.

Some chefs start as kitchen hands or commis chefs and work their way up through experience and on-the-job training. This pathway requires dedication and patience, but offers real-world learning from day one.

 

What can I do right now to work towards this career?

If you're in high school and considering a career as a chef, here are some steps you can take to start exploring:

  • Start cooking at home regularly. Experiment with different cuisines, master basic techniques, and learn to cook without recipes.
  • Look for part-time work in restaurants, cafés, or catering companies. Even roles like dishwashing or food service can give you valuable insight and help you decide if the environment suits you.
  • Consider taking hospitality or food technology subjects at school (if they're available) to start learning about food safety, nutrition, and industry practices.

 

Where can I find more information?

 

Similar careers to chef

  • Pastry Chef
  • Baker
  • Sommelier
  • Waiter
  • Dietician
  • Food Technologist
  • Barista
  • Bartender

How to become a Policy Analyst

Policy analysts are responsible for analysing current organisational or government policies. They use their research and findings to suggest changes, or even develop entirely new policies, that best meet the needs of affected communities and stakeholders.

If you love solving problems, enjoy researching and deep thinking, and want to contribute to change in society, becoming a policy analyst could be for you.

 

What skills do I need as a policy analyst?

  • Excellent problem-solver
  • Great communicator
  • Critical and analytical thinker
  • Detail-oriented and organised
  • Strong maths skills
  • Good collaborator
  • Great time management skills
  • Continuous learner

 

What does the job involve?

  • Analysing current policy issues and impacts
  • Gathering data and statistics on policy outcomes
  • Consulting with stakeholders and communities
  • Writing detailed reports of findings
  • Presenting findings to government or business
  • Suggesting policy improvements
  • Assessing potential impacts of policy change
  • Monitoring changes in outcomes

 

What industries do policy analysts typically work in?

  • Public Administration and Safety
  • Professional, Scientific, Technical Services
  • Health Care and Social Assistance

 

What Career Cluster do policy analysts belong to?

Most policy analysts fall under the Informer Cluster, as the job involves using specialised knowledge to advise and guide others.

 

What kind of lifestyle can I expect?

As a policy analyst, most of your work is done during standard business hours, but you might occasionally need to work overtime. There are often work-from-home and hybrid opportunities available for those seeking greater flexibility.

Policy analysts typically earn an average salary throughout their careers, though this can vary based on experience and your specific role.

You can work in various government departments at local, state, or federal levels, as well as for businesses, think tanks, research institutes, non-profit organisations, and consulting firms.

 

How to become a policy analyst

Becoming a policy analyst typically requires a bachelor's degree in a field such as political science, economics, public administration, or law. Some employers may prefer candidates with postgraduate qualifications in public policy or related areas.

Relevant experience is also highly valued, including internships with government departments, research assistant roles, or work with community organisations and advocacy groups.

 

What can I do right now to work towards this career?

If you're in high school and considering a career as a policy analyst, here are some things you can do to prepare:

  • Get involved in student government or debate teams to gain experience in policy discussions and public speaking.
  • Volunteer with local community organisations, political parties, or advocacy groups to understand how policies affect real people.
  • Look for work experience opportunities with local councils, members of parliament, or other policy-focused organisations.

 

Where can I find more information?

 

Similar careers to policy analyst

  • Economist
  • Intelligence Officer
  • Solicitor
  • Criminologist
  • Politician
  • Data Scientist
  • Electoral Worker
  • Public Relations Professional

How to become a Retail Assistant

Retail assistants (also known as sales assistants) work in stores, helping customers find what they need and ensuring they have a positive shopping experience. They're essential to keeping retail businesses running smoothly, from large department stores and supermarkets to boutique shops and specialist retailers.

If you enjoy working with people, have great communication skills, and want a role where no two days are the same, a career as a retail assistant could be perfect for you.

What skills do I need as a retail assistant? 

  • Strong communicator
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Patient and helpful
  • Good problem-solver
  • Ability to work well under pressure
  • Basic numeracy skills
  • Great team worker
  • Flexible and adaptable

What does the job involve? 

  • Greeting and assisting customers in store
  • Helping customers locate products and answering questions
  • Processing sales transactions and returns
  • Handling cash and digital payments
  • Keeping shop floors tidy and well-stocked
  • Arranging product displays and merchandise
  • Handling customer complaints
  • Working towards individual and team sales targets

What industries do retail assistants typically work in? 

  • Retail Trade
  • Accommodation and Food Services
  • Arts and Recreation Services

What Career Cluster do retail assistants belong to? 

Retail assistants help customers find, choose, and purchase the products they need, so they are usually strong Linkers.

What kind of lifestyle can I expect? 

Retail work often involves varied hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays when shops are busiest. There are usually lots of part-time or casual roles available, which can offer flexibility around other commitments like study.

Most retail assistants earn an average salary throughout their careers. There are plenty of opportunities for progression into management roles or even buying or starting your own retail business.

Most retail positions are based in shopping centres, city centres, or standalone stores, so it's very unlikely that you'll be able to work from home. You can expect to be working on your feet for most of the day.

How to become a retail assistant 

There are typically no formal educational requirements to become a retail assistant, making it an accessible career option for many people, including school leavers and those looking for a career change.

Most retail employers will provide on-the-job training covering their specific products, systems, and procedures. Some larger retailers offer structured training programmes that can lead to recognised qualifications in retail or customer service.

Key skills that employers look for include strong communication abilities, a positive attitude, reliability, and basic numeracy skills. Previous experience in customer service roles can be helpful but isn't always necessary.

What can I do right now to work towards this career? 

If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if becoming a retail assistant is right for you, here are a few things you could do right now:

  • Look for part-time or casual work in retail to start building experience or volunteer for events that involve customer service.
  • Consider studying business or hospitality subjects while at school and focus on building your numeracy skills.
  • Develop your communication skills through school presentations, drama activities, or other public speaking opportunities.

Where can I find more information? 

Similar careers to retail assistant 

  • Customer Service Representative
  • Receptionist
  • Call Centre Agent
  • Tour Guide
  • Sales Representative
  • Marketing Analyst
  • Administrator
  • Real Estate Agent

10 jobs for people who love reading

If you love getting lost in a good book, chances are you're the imaginative type, and want a fun job that reflects that. Reading can be a fantastic hobby, but did you know it could also lead to a cool career? 

Whether you’re into fiction, non-fiction, or even comic books, there are jobs out there where your love of reading can really pay off. Here are 10 awesome jobs for people who love reading.

 

1. Librarian 

Librarians are living the dream - they get to spend their days surrounded by books, and helping connect others to their passion. Their job involves helping people find the information they need, recommending great reads, and organising all the books in the library. If you love reading and helping others discover new books, this might be the perfect job for you.

How to get there: To become a librarian, you normally need to study information science, which means either a VET qualification in Library and Information Services, or more commonly a uni degree in Information Studies. Most librarians have a degree in this field, plus of course a passion for books and reading.

 

2. Book Editor 

Book Editors work closely with authors to make sure their stories are the best they can be. They read manuscripts, suggest changes, and help authors improve their work. If you love reading and have a keen eye for detail, being a Book Editor could be your dream job.

How to get there: A degree in English, Journalism, or Communications can help you get started. Strong reading and writing skills are also a must. For a step-by-step, check out our guide on How to become a Book Editor. 

 

3. Bookstore Owner 

Imagine owning a cozy bookstore filled with all your favourite reads, where everyone you meet is there because of a love of books. Bookstore owners run their own shops, choose which books to sell, and often get to talk to customers about their favourite books all day. If you love reading and want to share that passion with others, this could be a great fit for you.

How to get there: Experience working in a bookstore can help, and you’ll need some business know-how (like a Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business) to run your own shop.

 

4. Book Reviewer 

Are you super opinionated about the books you read? Book reviewers get paid to read books and share their opinions. They write reviews for newspapers, magazines, websites, or even their own blogs. If you love reading and enjoy sharing your thoughts on books, this job could be perfect for you.

How to get there: Start by writing reviews for fun on your own blog or social media, build a readership, then start submitting your reviews to publications. With practice and dedication, you could turn your passion into a life-long career. 

 

5. Literary Agent 

Literary agents are like the agents you've probably heard about in the film industry, except they help authors get their books published instead of helping actors find jobs. They read manuscripts, choose the ones they think will be successful, and then find a publisher to make it happen and negotiate with them on your behalf. If you love reading, are a people person, and have a good sense of what makes a book great, being a literary agent could be right up your alley. 

How to get there: Normally you'll need a minimum of a bachelors degree in a relevant field like English or Communications in order to become a Literary Agent. Then, it's all about business and networking, which is why most Literary Agents start out by working in publishing companies. 

 

6. Translator 

If you’re bilingual and love reading, being a translator could be a fantastic job. Translators take books written in one language and translate them into another, making stories accessible to a wider audience.

How to get there: You’ll need to be fluent in at least two languages and might need a degree in Translation or Linguistics.

 

7. Comic Book Writer 

If you love reading comic books, why not be part of creating them? Comic book creators write stories, design characters, and bring those characters to life with art. Whether you focus on writing, drawing, or both, working in comics could be a dream job for you.

How to get there: Practice your writing or drawing skills, and consider a degree in Creative Writing or Graphic Design. These days, lots of universities also offer courses that are specific to the art of comic books, like this BA in Comic & Concept Art, or this course in Comics and Sequential Storytelling. You can also start by creating your own comics online.

 

8. Archivist 

Archivists work in libraries, museums, and other institutions to preserve old books, documents, and manuscripts. They make sure important pieces of history are kept safe and organised for future generations to enjoy.

How to get there: A degree in History or Information Studies, plus a postgrad degree in Archival Studies, is typically required for this highly specialised role. If you love reading and history, this job could be absolutely perfect for you. 

 

9. Ghostwriter 

Ghostwriters write books, articles, or blogs for other people, and usually stay anonymous for it (ie: it won't be your name on the work that's published). If you love reading and writing but don’t mind someone else getting the credit, ghostwriting could be a fun way to use your skills.

How to get there: Strong writing skills and experience in writing are key, so start by writing your own stories or helping others with theirs. Most ghostwriters also start off as freelance writers, so this is another pathway to keep in mind. 

 

10. Audiobook Narrator 

If you have a great voice and love reading out loud, being an audiobook narrator could be a cool job for you. You’ll get paid to read books and bring the characters and stories to life for listeners who might not be able to access the typical format of the written word. 

 

How to get there: Practice reading out loud and consider taking voice acting classes. You might also need to create a demo reel to show off your voice.

 

Want more? 

Loving books doesn’t just have to be a hobby - there are plenty of careers where you can turn your passion for reading into a job. Whether you want to work directly with books or help others enjoy them, there’s something out there for every book lover.

 

How to become an Industrial Designer

Industrial designers combine art, business, and engineering to develop concepts for the products we use every day. From smartphones and cars to medical devices and furniture, they shape the look, feel, and functionality of almost everything in our built environment.

If you love solving problems through creative design, have a keen eye for aesthetics, and enjoy bringing ideas to life, a career as an industrial designer could be perfect for you.

 

What skills do I need as an industrial designer? 

  • Creative and innovative
  • Good eye for design
  • Technical problem-solver
  • Great attention to detail
  • Excellent collaborator
  • User-focused mindset
  • Can work well under pressure
  • Strong communicator
  •  

What does the job involve? 

  • Developing product concepts using traditional and digital tools
  • Creating 3D models and prototypes to test design ideas
  • Presenting design concepts to clients and stakeholders
  • Refining designs based on feedback and testing results
  • Conducting user research to understand customer needs and preferences
  • Collaborating with engineers, manufacturers, and marketing teams
  • Evaluating materials, manufacturing processes, and production costs
  • Ensuring products meet safety standards and regulatory requirements
  •  

What industries do industrial designers typically work in? 

  • Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail Trade
  •  

What Career Cluster do industrial designers belong to? 

Industrial designers are creative problem-solvers who create and develop the products we use, making them excellent Innovators.

 

What kind of lifestyle can I expect? 

Industrial designers typically work standard business hours, though project deadlines may require occasional overtime. The work environment is usually office-based with access to design studios, workshops, and prototyping facilities. Travel may be required to visit manufacturing facilities, attend trade shows, or meet with clients.

Most industrial designers earn an average salary throughout their careers.

Many industrial designers enjoy flexible working schedules, especially in creative agencies. The work involves a mix of independent design time and collaborative team meetings.

 

How to become an industrial designer 

The pathway to becoming an industrial designer typically involves finishing high school, earning a bachelor's degree in industrial design or a related field, and building a strong portfolio of design work.

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in industrial design, product design, or a related discipline such as engineering or fine arts. Many programs include courses in drawing, computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), and 3D modelling, as well as covering information about industrial materials and manufacturing methods.

Building a professional portfolio showcasing your best design work is crucial for finding work as an industrial designer.

 

What can I do right now to work towards this career? 

If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if becoming an industrial designer is right for you, here are a few things you could do right now:

  • Develop your drawing and sketching skills through art classes and practice - you might like to also start learning basic computer design software.
  • Seek work experience or internships with local design firms or manufacturers, or participate in design competitions or maker spaces in your community.
  • Talk to an industrial designer about their career experience. If you don’t know anyone, see if you can watch videos or documentaries about a career in design.
  •  

Where can I find more information? 

Similar careers to industrial designer 

  • Toy Designer
  • UX Designer
  • Graphic Designer
  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Architect
  • Fashion Designer
  • Urban Planner
  • Automotive Designer

 

How to become an Anthropologist

Anthropologists research and examine all aspects of human society and behaviour, both past and present, including languages, art, belief systems, rituals, music, economic systems and more. They can research ancient cultures to uncover new information, or research current trends and patterns to provide insights to governments and businesses.

If you’re curious, patient, and have a passion for history and culture, a career as an anthropologist could be worth considering.

 

What skills do I need as an anthropologist? 

  • Curious & inquisitive
  • Organised & methodical
  • Critical thinker
  • Empathetic & open
  • Skilled communicator
  • Analytical & thorough
  • Can work alone & in teams

  • Good problem-solver

     

What does the job involve? 

  • Conducting research & presenting findings
  • Comparing sets of data to find trends
  • Gathering & analysing artefacts & records
  • Explaining findings to others
  • Working with other social professionals
  • Providing culturally-specific advice
  • Organising & safely storing items

  • Educating others on different cultures

     

What industries do anthropologists typically work in? 

  • Professional, Scientific & Technical Services
  • Education & Training

  • Health Care & Social Assistance

     

What Career Cluster do anthropologists belong to? 

Anthropologists belong to the Informer Cluster - they need to have a lot of curiosity and great communication skills, ready to share their knowledge with others.

 

What kind of lifestyle can I expect? 

Most anthropologists work average hours, and there are plenty of part-time opportunities available.

While some of the work is hands-on, you may also be able to conduct work remotely or from home, particularly when conducting certain research and communicating with clients. There is also lots of opportunity to travel.

As an anthropologist you can expect to earn an average salary throughout your careers.

 

How to become an anthropologist 

To work as an anthropologist, you will typically need to study a relevant undergraduate qualification, such as in arts or social sciences. Postgraduate study is also highly desirable in this field. You may also need to be fluent in another language, depending on which culture you would like to research.

You might choose to specialise in a particular area of anthropology down the track, such as linguistics, culture, biology, or archaeology. 

  • Finish high school, focusing on subjects such as English, History, and Social Studies
  • Complete a relevant university qualification, typically an undergraduate degree in Anthropology, Arts, or Social Sciences
  • Start building work experience

  • Consider undertaking a Master's degree in Anthropology, or potentially even a PhD

     

What can I do right now to work towards this career? 

If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if becoming an anthropologist is right for you, here are a few things you could do right now:

  • Work on your research and writing skills, which will be vital in this career. Delve deep into a particular area of interest and find out everything you possibly can.
  • Try and find work experience in places like a museum, cultural institution, or research institution.
  • Talk to an anthropologist to see what a day in their life is like. If you don’t know anyone, see if you can watch videos or documentaries about a career in anthropology.
  •  

Where can I find more information? 

Similar careers to anthropologist 

  • Historian
  • Interpreter
  • Lecturer
  • Archaeologist
  • Community Development Officer
  • Data Scientist
  • Advocate
  • Librarian

ISSUE 9

Where physics can take you

How to become a Pet Groomer

How to become a Visual Merchandiser

Where history can take you

ISSUE 8

Why you need science: For people who don’t like science

How to become an Animator

Psychology vs counselling: What’s the difference?

How to become a Social Worker

How to become a Forensic Scientist

10 jobs for sporty people

How to become a Meteorologist

ISSUE 7

How to become an Instructional Designer

8 jobs for people who love movies

7 ways volunteering can benefit you

ISSUE 6

How to become a Scrum Master

How to become a Publisher

ISSUE 5

Discover career pathways in Sport

Discover career pathways in Writing and Editing

Discover career pathways in Communications

Discover career pathways in Network Administration

How to become an Electoral Worker

Discover career pathways in Disaster Management

Discover career pathways in Libraries and Archives

11 careers you may never have heard 

ISSUE 4

Discover career pathways in Counselling

Discover career pathways in Accounting

ISSUE 3

Discover career pathways in Utilities

Discover career pathways in Translation and Interpretation

ISSUE 2

Planning for a future in medicine

Discover career pathways in Immigration

Discover career pathways in Telecommunications

Business Pathway Spotlight

Jobs for people who love puzzles