4 answers
Ki'yon
Student
Hopewell, Virginia
12
Questions
Asked
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If i'm interested in being a mechanical engineer or a career in the engineering field, what types of jobs, experiences, or skills are employers looking for on a resume?
Ideally, what are some things I should mention on a resume that most employers in the engineering field are looking for. I currently have no experience or jobs.
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4 answers
Glenn A
Mechanical Engineering Manager @ Belkin
150
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Glenn’s Answer
I am a hiring manager and I have hired several people straight out of college. The first thing is a resume that is well laid out and one page that is well formatted. I spend 20 seconds to decide if I want to spend 3 minutes looking at the content. Next is to have some work experience, ideally an internship or coop, but any job that requires thought is good and just working is OK. Next is to highlight some projects that you did during your 4 years in college, capstone or a project course is helpful. Include some hobbies or sports as this may get some attention.
When you interview, I look at how you can apply engineering fundamentals to design situations. So you need to understand the material in your classes and know how it affects design decisions.
One page resume that is easy to follow and not embellish
Work experience, ideally internship or Coop.
Projects from your college education
understand engineering fundamentals
When you interview, I look at how you can apply engineering fundamentals to design situations. So you need to understand the material in your classes and know how it affects design decisions.
Glenn recommends the following next steps:
Akhilesh Unde
14
Answers
Updated
Akhilesh’s Answer
For a career in mechanical engineering or the engineering field in general, employers typically look for a blend of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and practical experience, even if you’re just starting. Here’s a guide on how to build and showcase relevant skills and experiences on your resume, especially when you have little to no direct experience yet:
1. Educational Background
Include your degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering), even if you’re still completing it. Mention relevant coursework, such as:
Thermodynamics
Fluid Mechanics
Materials Science
Statics and Dynamics
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Control Systems
Engineering Mechanics
GPA and Honors: If you have a strong GPA or any honors, list them, as many engineering employers appreciate academic rigor.
2. Skills Section
Technical Skills: Highlight specific tools and software related to engineering, such as:
CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA)
MATLAB or other engineering-specific software
Programming languages (e.g., Python, C++)
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools
Soft Skills: Mechanical engineering requires good communication, collaboration, and project management skills. Mention skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and time management.
3. Projects
Employers in engineering appreciate hands-on projects, so list any school projects or independent projects that showcase practical application of engineering principles. Describe:
What you built, designed, or analyzed (e.g., “Designed a gear mechanism using SolidWorks for a final class project”).
The results or outcomes (e.g., “Achieved a 10% increase in efficiency for a simulated product prototype”).
The skills and tools you used.
Capstone Projects: If you have a capstone project in your program, include it, as these projects are often complex and mirror real-world problems.
4. Extracurricular Involvement
Engineering Clubs and Organizations: Being part of groups like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) or a Robotics Club shows initiative and a commitment to your field. Mention any significant contributions or roles, even if they’re not leadership roles (e.g., “Member of ASME, assisted in designing and testing parts for a competition robot”).
Competitions: Many engineering students participate in competitions like Formula SAE, Solar Car Challenge, or hackathons. Mention any involvement, as employers value hands-on experience with real-world engineering challenges.
5. Internships and Co-op Programs
If you haven’t done an internship yet, consider applying for one or a co-op program, as these provide invaluable experience.
If you’re actively seeking these, you can include a line on your resume under “Objective” or “Education” mentioning your interest in gaining practical experience through internships.
6. Certifications and Training
Certifications show dedication to learning additional skills. If you’ve completed certifications in areas like SolidWorks, Six Sigma, or project management, list them on your resume.
Online courses in areas like robotics, coding, or even project management (e.g., through platforms like Coursera or edX) can also add value, especially if you lack direct work experience.
7. Objective Statement
Use a concise objective statement at the top of your resume to show your goals and enthusiasm for entering the field. For example:
“Enthusiastic mechanical engineering graduate with foundational knowledge in CAD, thermodynamics, and materials science, seeking an entry-level position to apply design and problem-solving skills.”
8. Volunteer Experience
Volunteering in roles that involve technical skills or project management can indirectly strengthen your engineering profile. For example, volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and helping with construction can give you insights into materials and processes.
Sample Entry-Level Resume Structure:
[Your Name]
Objective: Dedicated mechanical engineering student seeking an entry-level position or internship to leverage skills in CAD and engineering analysis, with a strong foundation in thermodynamics and materials science.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, [Your University] | Expected Graduation: [Month, Year]
Relevant Courses: Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, CAD, Engineering Mechanics
GPA: [If 3.0 or higher]
Skills:
Technical: SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python, AutoCAD, FEA
Soft Skills: Problem-solving, teamwork, communication
Projects:
Design of Gear Mechanism in SolidWorks
Developed a functional 3D model for a gear mechanism as part of a final project, achieving [outcome]. Utilized SolidWorks for detailed design and simulation.
Robot Construction (School Robotics Club)
Participated in building and testing a competition robot. Used MATLAB for motion analysis and collaborated with team members on design and troubleshooting.
Extracurricular Activities:
Member of American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
[University’s Robotics Club], Member
Certifications :
Introduction to Python for Engineers (Coursera), [Year]
Fundamentals of Project Management (edX), [Year]
Volunteer Experience:
Habitat for Humanity, Volunteer
Assisted in building projects, gaining experience with construction materials and processes, which enhanced my understanding of structural integrity and material applications.
Coursework Projects (if applicable):
Thermodynamic Cycle Analysis
Conducted a complete analysis of thermodynamic cycles as part of an advanced coursework project, focusing on efficiency improvements. This included detailed calculations and use of MATLAB for simulation.
Materials Science Experiment
Analyzed material properties and stress testing results for a lab project, focusing on fatigue resistance and durability. Presented findings and recommendations based on research and data interpretation.
Additional Skills (optional):
Basic knowledge of machining tools and workshop safety
Strong analytical skills in data interpretation and modeling
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Tips for Gaining Additional Experience
1. Online Engineering Challenges: Join platforms like GrabCAD, Kaggle (for data engineering), or Arduino projects, where you can work on real-world engineering challenges.
2. Personal Projects: Try building or designing small projects, such as a 3D-printed model or a simple DIY robot, which you can document and add to your resume.
3. Networking and Informational Interviews: Attend career fairs or reach out to professionals on LinkedIn to learn more about the field. These conversations may lead to shadowing opportunities or entry-level projects.
4. Student Engineering Competitions: Look for engineering competitions or hackathons in mechanical engineering or related fields. Employers appreciate hands-on, competitive experience that applies classroom knowledge.
5. Technical Writing: Writing about engineering topics, even in a blog or LinkedIn post, can help build your reputation and technical communication skills, which are valued in engineering roles.
By focusing on these areas, you can build a resume that highlights your skills, enthusiasm, and readiness for an engineering role, making you a strong candidate for entry-level positions or internships.
1. Educational Background
Include your degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering), even if you’re still completing it. Mention relevant coursework, such as:
Thermodynamics
Fluid Mechanics
Materials Science
Statics and Dynamics
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Control Systems
Engineering Mechanics
GPA and Honors: If you have a strong GPA or any honors, list them, as many engineering employers appreciate academic rigor.
2. Skills Section
Technical Skills: Highlight specific tools and software related to engineering, such as:
CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA)
MATLAB or other engineering-specific software
Programming languages (e.g., Python, C++)
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools
Soft Skills: Mechanical engineering requires good communication, collaboration, and project management skills. Mention skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and time management.
3. Projects
Employers in engineering appreciate hands-on projects, so list any school projects or independent projects that showcase practical application of engineering principles. Describe:
What you built, designed, or analyzed (e.g., “Designed a gear mechanism using SolidWorks for a final class project”).
The results or outcomes (e.g., “Achieved a 10% increase in efficiency for a simulated product prototype”).
The skills and tools you used.
Capstone Projects: If you have a capstone project in your program, include it, as these projects are often complex and mirror real-world problems.
4. Extracurricular Involvement
Engineering Clubs and Organizations: Being part of groups like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) or a Robotics Club shows initiative and a commitment to your field. Mention any significant contributions or roles, even if they’re not leadership roles (e.g., “Member of ASME, assisted in designing and testing parts for a competition robot”).
Competitions: Many engineering students participate in competitions like Formula SAE, Solar Car Challenge, or hackathons. Mention any involvement, as employers value hands-on experience with real-world engineering challenges.
5. Internships and Co-op Programs
If you haven’t done an internship yet, consider applying for one or a co-op program, as these provide invaluable experience.
If you’re actively seeking these, you can include a line on your resume under “Objective” or “Education” mentioning your interest in gaining practical experience through internships.
6. Certifications and Training
Certifications show dedication to learning additional skills. If you’ve completed certifications in areas like SolidWorks, Six Sigma, or project management, list them on your resume.
Online courses in areas like robotics, coding, or even project management (e.g., through platforms like Coursera or edX) can also add value, especially if you lack direct work experience.
7. Objective Statement
Use a concise objective statement at the top of your resume to show your goals and enthusiasm for entering the field. For example:
“Enthusiastic mechanical engineering graduate with foundational knowledge in CAD, thermodynamics, and materials science, seeking an entry-level position to apply design and problem-solving skills.”
8. Volunteer Experience
Volunteering in roles that involve technical skills or project management can indirectly strengthen your engineering profile. For example, volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and helping with construction can give you insights into materials and processes.
Sample Entry-Level Resume Structure:
[Your Name]
Objective: Dedicated mechanical engineering student seeking an entry-level position or internship to leverage skills in CAD and engineering analysis, with a strong foundation in thermodynamics and materials science.
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, [Your University] | Expected Graduation: [Month, Year]
Relevant Courses: Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, CAD, Engineering Mechanics
GPA: [If 3.0 or higher]
Skills:
Technical: SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python, AutoCAD, FEA
Soft Skills: Problem-solving, teamwork, communication
Projects:
Design of Gear Mechanism in SolidWorks
Developed a functional 3D model for a gear mechanism as part of a final project, achieving [outcome]. Utilized SolidWorks for detailed design and simulation.
Robot Construction (School Robotics Club)
Participated in building and testing a competition robot. Used MATLAB for motion analysis and collaborated with team members on design and troubleshooting.
Extracurricular Activities:
Member of American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
[University’s Robotics Club], Member
Certifications :
Introduction to Python for Engineers (Coursera), [Year]
Fundamentals of Project Management (edX), [Year]
Volunteer Experience:
Habitat for Humanity, Volunteer
Assisted in building projects, gaining experience with construction materials and processes, which enhanced my understanding of structural integrity and material applications.
Coursework Projects (if applicable):
Thermodynamic Cycle Analysis
Conducted a complete analysis of thermodynamic cycles as part of an advanced coursework project, focusing on efficiency improvements. This included detailed calculations and use of MATLAB for simulation.
Materials Science Experiment
Analyzed material properties and stress testing results for a lab project, focusing on fatigue resistance and durability. Presented findings and recommendations based on research and data interpretation.
Additional Skills (optional):
Basic knowledge of machining tools and workshop safety
Strong analytical skills in data interpretation and modeling
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Tips for Gaining Additional Experience
1. Online Engineering Challenges: Join platforms like GrabCAD, Kaggle (for data engineering), or Arduino projects, where you can work on real-world engineering challenges.
2. Personal Projects: Try building or designing small projects, such as a 3D-printed model or a simple DIY robot, which you can document and add to your resume.
3. Networking and Informational Interviews: Attend career fairs or reach out to professionals on LinkedIn to learn more about the field. These conversations may lead to shadowing opportunities or entry-level projects.
4. Student Engineering Competitions: Look for engineering competitions or hackathons in mechanical engineering or related fields. Employers appreciate hands-on, competitive experience that applies classroom knowledge.
5. Technical Writing: Writing about engineering topics, even in a blog or LinkedIn post, can help build your reputation and technical communication skills, which are valued in engineering roles.
By focusing on these areas, you can build a resume that highlights your skills, enthusiasm, and readiness for an engineering role, making you a strong candidate for entry-level positions or internships.
Ray Koch
Mechanical Reliability Engineer
29
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Ray’s Answer
I am going to assume that you are currently in college and clos to graduation as I answer this and that you have never had any job.
The first and most important thing is proper spelling and grammar. Good communication skills are a key thing employers are looking for and using slang or text speak, or even improper grammer or spelling can get your resume tossed.
As other have mention include you education information. Where you went, degree, any specialty courses or electives you took that can set you apart from your classmates and include your GPA. Also list any large projects you worked on.
List an professional organizations you were a part of and any projects you may have worked in with them (I.e Civil engineering org and the concrete canoe)
List any volunteer experience you may have.
Finally list any technical skills you may have including computer skills and software you can use.
This will give you a general resume which captures what education and skills you have and is great for career fairs and large hiring events.
I would not use this resume as is when applying for a specific job. For that I would tweak you resume to highlight what experience you have for the job you are applying for.
Example: Job description or qualifications mention working with a team - highlight a team project you worked on in college or with a professional organization.
Finally, if you can I would really try to pick up a part time position somewhere to just get some work experience, even if it's not engineering related. This can show that you have experience in the working world and have some soft skills that your education alone doesn't highlight. It can also help with references.
The first and most important thing is proper spelling and grammar. Good communication skills are a key thing employers are looking for and using slang or text speak, or even improper grammer or spelling can get your resume tossed.
As other have mention include you education information. Where you went, degree, any specialty courses or electives you took that can set you apart from your classmates and include your GPA. Also list any large projects you worked on.
List an professional organizations you were a part of and any projects you may have worked in with them (I.e Civil engineering org and the concrete canoe)
List any volunteer experience you may have.
Finally list any technical skills you may have including computer skills and software you can use.
This will give you a general resume which captures what education and skills you have and is great for career fairs and large hiring events.
I would not use this resume as is when applying for a specific job. For that I would tweak you resume to highlight what experience you have for the job you are applying for.
Example: Job description or qualifications mention working with a team - highlight a team project you worked on in college or with a professional organization.
Finally, if you can I would really try to pick up a part time position somewhere to just get some work experience, even if it's not engineering related. This can show that you have experience in the working world and have some soft skills that your education alone doesn't highlight. It can also help with references.
William Oliveira
10
Answers
St. Augustine, Florida
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Ray,
If you want to be a mechanical engineer, here’s what employers look for on a resume:
1. Jobs or Experiences
Internships: Even short ones are great for learning.
Projects: School or personal projects where you designed or built something.
Example: “Built a model car that runs on solar power.”
Clubs/Competitions: Robotics teams, science fairs, or anything STEM-related.
2. Skills Employers Like:
- Technical Skills:
Software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks.
Basic coding (Python or C++).
- Soft Skills:
Problem-solving.
Teamwork.
Staying organized and meeting deadlines.
- Hands-On Skills:
Using tools or 3D printers.
Fixing or testing things.
3. What to Put on Your Resume (If You’re New):
- Education:
Your school, classes like physics or math, and GPA (if good).
- Projects:
Highlight anything you’ve built or designed.
- Clubs/Activities:
Mention robotics, STEM clubs, or competitions.
- Skills:
Include tools/software you’re learning and teamwork/problem-solving skills.
Even if you don’t have experience yet, show you’re excited to learn and try new things. Employers love that.
I hope this helps,
Best,
William
If you want to be a mechanical engineer, here’s what employers look for on a resume:
1. Jobs or Experiences
Internships: Even short ones are great for learning.
Projects: School or personal projects where you designed or built something.
Example: “Built a model car that runs on solar power.”
Clubs/Competitions: Robotics teams, science fairs, or anything STEM-related.
2. Skills Employers Like:
- Technical Skills:
Software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks.
Basic coding (Python or C++).
- Soft Skills:
Problem-solving.
Teamwork.
Staying organized and meeting deadlines.
- Hands-On Skills:
Using tools or 3D printers.
Fixing or testing things.
3. What to Put on Your Resume (If You’re New):
- Education:
Your school, classes like physics or math, and GPA (if good).
- Projects:
Highlight anything you’ve built or designed.
- Clubs/Activities:
Mention robotics, STEM clubs, or competitions.
- Skills:
Include tools/software you’re learning and teamwork/problem-solving skills.
Even if you don’t have experience yet, show you’re excited to learn and try new things. Employers love that.
I hope this helps,
Best,
William