In your engineering resume, be sure to highlight important skills such as familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, a keen mathematical mind, proven design work, and a familiarity with local codes and restrictions. Your resume should showcase your abilities, qualifications, and background in a clear and concise manner. A simple and visually appealing template makes it easy for the hiring manager to quickly identify your strengths as an engineer.
Key Takeaways
Emphasize specializations: Engineering is such a vast field, and most people have strong academic backgrounds. That’s why it’s important to demonstrate the specializations that make you a good fit for a specific role.
Detail quantifiable achievements: This field is all about data and precision, so your resume should be no different. Use numbers to showcase the value you’ve brought to past organizations, whether it involves cost, productivity, or efficiency.
Use keywords for ATS: Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are programmed to look for specific keywords that match the job requirements. Look closely at the job description and try to incorporate some of the keywords and phrases used.
How To Write an Engineering Resume Example
In your engineering resume, emphasize what you bring to the table and sprinkle in relevant action verbs. Choose an easy-to-read template and include the following sections:
Contact information
Profile
Professional experience
Education and certifications
Key skills
1. Share your contact information
Share your name, phone number, email address, and portfolio website (if applicable). Ensure your contact information is current so potential employers can reach out for an interview.
Example
Your Name
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code LinkedIn | Portfolio
2. Write a dynamic profile summarizing your qualifications
In about two to three sentences, the profile or objective section should summarize your career goals and what you can offer to the company. Emphasize your strengths in engineering tasks while integrating keywords from the job description to show you’re a good match for the position.
Senior-Level Profile Example
A highly educated and dedicated senior engineering professional with experience gleaned from notable companies such as Lockheed Martin and Apple Inc. Track record of team leadership, project management, strategic planning, and advanced technical knowledge in engineering. Instrumental in strategic decision-making, product innovation, and operational improvements. Consistently enhances efficiency and quality within high-profile projects, while applying cutting-edge CAD technologies and engineering techniques.
Entry-Level Profile Example
Highly driven civil engineer with diverse experiences gained through internships at Google and Lockheed Martin. A strong foundation in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, coupled with proficient skills in CAD software, data analysis, quality assurance, and technical writing. With a reputation for improving design optimization by leveraging analytical skills and a record of enhancing product efficiency, poised to contribute towards engineering excellence.
3. Add a compelling section featuring your engineering experience
In your work history section, list your most relevant experience as an engineer, including your job title, the company you worked for, and your responsibilities. Those with less experience can mention related jobs and school projects. Create bullet points under each role to list your duties and achievements. Were you involved in projects completed under budget and on time? Did you collaborate with a team to carry out engineering plans? Did you implement a more efficient process?
Senior-Level Professional Experience Example
Director of Engineering, Lockheed Martin, Orlando, FL | January 2019 – present
Led a multidisciplinary team of over 20 junior and mid-level engineers, fostering an environment of learning and innovation while ensuring excellent performance metrics
Managed numerous engineering projects, including key a jets development program with a budget of over $300 million; delivered projects on time without compromising quality
Contributed significantly to strategic planning, making critical decisions in policy development and procedure improvements to enhance operations. Successfully identified and implemented innovative procedures that saved up to 15% execution time in projects
Senior Lead Engineer, Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA | February 2010 – December 2018
Oversaw the day-to-day activities of a team of over 30 engineers working on product development, including assignment allocation and performance monitoring
Demonstrated exceptional project management skills in leading top innovative projects involving advanced technical knowledge in engineering, including the company’s latest flagship product line
Routinely involved in strategic planning meetings, using advanced engineering techniques to devise innovative strategies for furthering company objectives. Key player in incorporating new CAD technologies into the design process that enhanced production efficiency by 20%
Assisting in the development and implementation of four major projects, utilizing CAD software to create accurate and efficient designs
Conducting detailed data collection and analysis, leading to a 20% improvement in design optimizations and a more efficient materials utilization rate
Actively involved in quality assurance tasks, ensuring project designs meet strictly set government standards and regulations
Mechanical Engineering Intern, Google, Mountain View, CA | May 2021 – August 2021
Supported design engineers in creating 3D models for five forthcoming tech products using SolidWorks, which streamlined the production process
Performed failure analysis tasks on machine components to ensure 100% compliance with quality standards
Presented detailed technical reports summarizing machine test results, creating adjustments that increased overall efficiency by 15%
Resume writer’s tip: Quantify your experience
Quantifying your experience on your engineering resume is an effective way to demonstrate your value and accomplishments in prior positions. Consider using data and metrics on your performance, such as sales figures, cost savings, or productivity gains.
Here is an example of a quantified accomplishment you might include on your engineering resume (and how not to do it):
Do
"Reduced costs by $50,000 annually by implementing a new quality control process."
Don’t
"Implemented a new quality control process."
Resume writer’s tip: Tailor your resume for each application
For engineering jobs, it’s important that you customize your resume for the specific role you are seeking. Especially because there are different types of engineering skills, from mechanical to civil engineering, demonstrating that you are a good match with an employer is key.
What if you don’t have experience?
If you’re an engineer with little or no work experience, there are several ways to make up for this and get your resume to stand out.
You can emphasize your education to showcase your strengths, interests, and background. List any relevant coursework, GPA and honors, relevant projects, certifications, and online courses you have completed. You can also include volunteerism, internships, or any other relevant non-work experience while listing any transferable skills you attained.
4. Include education and certifications relevant to engineering jobs
Most engineering positions require a degree or related educational background. List any relevant or required degrees or diplomas, providing the institution name, location, completion date, and GPA if requested. If you’ve earned certifications from engineering professional associations like the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), or have specialized skills related to the position, include those as well.
Education
Template:
[Degree Name]
[School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
Example:
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA | 2022
Engineer in Training Certification (EIT), National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, 2021
Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), International Council on Systems Engineering, 2019
5. List engineer-related skills and proficiencies
Employers look for both hard and soft skills when hiring engineers because they want to ensure the candidate has the necessary knowledge, such as proficiency in AutoCAD or project management. Demonstrate you have a well-rounded skill set that makes you an ideal candidate for the position. Some examples:
Key Skills and Proficiencies
CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks)
Cost analyses
Innovation
Project management
Safety standards and regulations
Teamwork skills
Resume writer’s tip: Use strong action verbs
Action verbs are important in an engineering resume because they help create an impact when you’re delivering information to another reader. When used within a resume, action verbs help the application package stand out from other submissions. They can also help your resume get past ATS scanners that filter for the top candidates.
Here are some common action verbs to consider using on your engineering resume:
Action Verbs
Analyzed
Collaborated
Designed
Developed
Implemented
Innovated
Managed
Optimized
Resolved
Tested
How To Pick the Best Engineering Resume Template
When choosing a resume template for engineering jobs, go for a clean and professional-looking one. A simple layout and easy-to-read format with sections and spacing allow the hiring manager to scan for relevant experience and skills.
Engineering Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples
left
Entry level
Midlevel
Senior level
right
Joseph Corbin
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code
LinkedIn | Portfolio
Profile
Highly driven civil engineer with diverse experiences gained through internships at Google and Lockheed Martin. A strong foundation in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, coupled with proficient skills in CAD software, data analysis, quality assurance, and technical writing. With a reputation for improving design optimization by leveraging analytical skills and a record of enhancing product efficiency, poised to contribute towards engineering excellence.
Assisting in the development and implementation of four major projects, utilizing CAD software to create accurate and efficient designs
Conducting detailed data collection and analysis, leading to a 20% improvement in design optimizations and a more efficient materials utilization rate
Actively involved in quality assurance tasks, ensuring project designs meet strictly set government standards and regulations
Mechanical Engineering Intern, Google, Mountain View, CA | May 2021 – August 2021
Supported design engineers in creating 3D models for five forthcoming tech products using SolidWorks, which streamlined the production process
Performed failure analysis tasks on machine components to ensure 100% compliance with quality standards
Presented detailed technical reports summarizing machine test results, creating adjustments that increased overall efficiency by 15%
Education
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
University of California, Berkeley, CA | June 2023
Certifications
Engineer in Training Certification (EIT), National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, 2024
Associate Value Specialist (AVS), Society of American Value Engineers International, 2023
Debra Diaz
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code
LinkedIn | Portfolio
Profile
A dynamic and highly qualified engineer with a PhD in electrical engineering, advanced degrees in civil and mechanical engineering, and a comprehensive cross-disciplinary understanding of engineering. Displayed project management capabilities, effectively mentored junior staff for enhanced productivity, and ensured quality assurance by developing and implementing rigorous protocols at renowned companies such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing. Several prestigious professional certifications, robust analytical solution-finding abilities, and expertise in CAD software and system engineering experience.
Key Skills
Aerospace design
CAD software
Mentoring junior staff
Project management
Quality assurance
Professional Experience
Senior Project Engineer, Lockheed Martin, King of Prussia, PA | June 2021 – present
Managed multiple large-scale aerospace design projects with a cumulative budget of over $300 million while successfully maintaining timelines and deliverable expectations
Instrumental in mentoring and training a team of 10 junior engineers resulting in a 20% increase in project efficiency and productivity
Developed and implemented rigorous quality assurance protocols, reducing system errors by 30%
Civil Engineer, Boeing, Seattle, WA | July 2018 – May 2021
Led the structural design and analysis for aviation projects with a project worth $1.5 million
Coached a budding team of civil engineers, enhancing the overall team’s productivity by 15% through professional development
Successfully mitigated a potential delay in project delivery by identifying and troubleshooting design issues early in the process
Education
Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Stanford University, Stanford, CA | 2019
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA | 2017
Certifications
Professional Engineer (PE) License, National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), 2022
Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), 2020
Project Management Professional (PMP), Project Management Institute (PMI), 2019
Cynthia Gray
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code
LinkedIn | Portfolio
Profile
A highly educated and dedicated senior engineering professional experience acquired with notable companies such as Lockheed Martin and Apple Inc. Track record of team leadership, project management, strategic planning, and advanced technical knowledge in engineering. Instrumental in strategic decision-making, product innovation, and operational improvements. Consistently enhances efficiency and quality within high-profile projects, while applying cutting-edge CAD technologies and engineering techniques.
Key Skills
Advanced Engineering Techniques
CAD software
Project management
Strategic planning
Supervision
Professional Experience
Director of Engineering, Lockheed Martin, Orlando, FL | January 2019 – present
Led a multidisciplinary team of over 20 junior and mid-level engineers, fostering an environment of learning and innovation while ensuring excellent performance metrics
Managed numerous engineering projects, including a key jets development program with a budget of over $300 million; delivered projects on time without compromising quality
Contributed significantly to strategic planning, making critical decisions in policy development and procedure improvements to enhance operations. Successfully identified and implemented innovative procedures that saved up to 15% execution time in projects
Senior Lead Engineer, Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA | February 2010 – December 2018
Oversaw the day-to-day activities of a team of over 30 engineers working on product development, including assignment allocation and performance monitoring
Demonstrated exceptional project management skills in leading top-innovative projects involving advanced technical knowledge in engineering, including the company’s latest flagship product line
Routinely involved in strategic planning meetings, using advanced engineering techniques to devise innovative strategies for furthering company objectives. A key player in incorporating new CAD technologies into the design process that enhanced production efficiency by 20%
Education
Ph.D. in Engineering
University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA | 2004
Master of Science in Engineering
Stanford University, Stanford, CA | 2000
Bachelor of Science in Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA | 1995
Certifications
Professional Engineer (PE), National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, 2010
Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), International Council on Systems Engineering, 2008
Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), Society of Manufacturing Engineers, 2007
Frequently Asked Questions: Engineering Resume Examples and Advice
How do you align your resume with an engineering job description?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, engineering jobs are expected to grow faster than the average occupation. But because roles can vary widely depending on the kind of engineering and the organization, it’s important to tweak your resume so that it matches the specific job you’re targeting. Using key phrases from the job description and highlighting your matching skills can help you stand out as a strong candidate.
What is the best engineering resume format?
A reverse-chronological order format is the gold standard when it comes to most professions including engineering. It tells your professional story to recruiters while sharing your most relevant achievements and qualifications.
Expert advice:
Include a cover letter with your resume
When you apply for jobs, including a cover letter with your resume is an extra touch that can help grab the recruiter’s attention. Share something about your work history or a unique skill set that you have, while tying it to the organization’s needs.
Andrew Stoner is an executive career coach and resume writer with 17 years of experience as a hiring manager and operations leader at two Fortune 500 Financial Services companies, and as the career services director at two major university business schools.
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