Advice on Your Engineering Job Search - Part 3 of 3
We’ve enjoyed celebrating National Engineers Week with you, giving you a head start on planning for a rewarding career in Engineering and Technology. In yesterday’s post we shared a checklist of 9 top considerations when selecting the right college fit.
Today we wrap up our series by focusing on your job search. While it may be a few years before you’re working full time, these are tips you can also apply to your quest for internships or part-time jobs. And, considering the level of competition, it’s never too early to position yourself to succeed.
A recent study by CareerBuilder reveals that nearly 3 out of 4 high school seniors already know what careers they plan to pursue, and engineering tops the list, with other STEM-related fields close behind. That’s a lot of competition! Therefore, your presentation strategy is critical.
We turned to Dr. Lisa Matthews, Ph.D. and Professional Resume Writer for Top Choice Resumes, to give us the expert view on shaping this strategy. She suggests that both your college applications and your resume be specifically engineering-targeted. “It’s all about the words,” Dr. Matthews told us. “Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) scans critical keywords in your resume and online applications.” Therefore, in order to master the ATS screening tools and prepare for interviews, she recommends that you research those buzzwords and then use them.
We found one list of Engineering terms, compiled by Calvin College, in Michigan, and other resources are available online. Search for both general engineering keywords, such as design, process control, data collection, analysis, prototype, quantitative, structural, and those specific to your specialty. Each engineering field – biomed, civil, mechanical, software, etc. – will have its own set of relevant terms. If you plan to work with code (as a software engineer, for example) include some code you’ve written in your resume; the ATS tools can find it!
Armed with your keywords, use the following guidelines to formulate your resume/application:
- Determine how your academic history and previous job experience aligns with the skills and terms relevant to the field.
- Highlight all relevant experience, talents and strengths in your application/resume, using the appropriate terms.
- Along with degrees and past jobs, be sure to include:
- Relevant software you’ve used
- School projects
- Volunteer experience
- Memberships in engineering-related organizations
- Offices held
- Papers presented
- If you’re having difficulty identifying accomplishments and strengths to highlight, ask yourself the following questions:
- What differentiates me from my competition?
- What are 3-6 of my strongest skills or competencies?
- Think of your resume/application as a marketing piece for the field of engineering. Is it effective? Does it speak to your value?
- Be proactive and write a list of organizations and colleges that you intend to pursue. The list will evolve as your search proceeds and should always have 20 or more organizations.
Dr. Matthews also suggests that you visit the #1 engineering job site: EngineerJobs.com, for postings, guidelines for effective interviewing, and a wide range of other articles and advice.
Another expert, Omer Farooq, an engineer and Associate at Schlumberger adds one more note: “It is important to stay connected to industry leaders and experts. Being active in professional organizations and attending technical conferences and trade shows are good ways to stay in touch with your industry peers. These connections will be very important in your job search. When you do get a job, find a well-connected mentor in your company and establish a good relationship with him or her.”
As you take the first step toward your exciting engineering career, remember the mantra: Don’t Stress. Just Plan. You have a wealth of tips and tools at your disposal. And your whole future ahead of you. Good luck! We’re on your side.