Engineering Resumes: Tips, Templates, & Examples

Various elements are considered for a comprehensive and impactful presentation when crafting an effective engineering resume. The foundation is set by choosing the best resume format, and relevance is enhanced by tailoring it to specific fields such as industrial engineering, systems engineering, or chemical engineering. The chronological resume format is the best resume format for an engineer. To write an engineering resume requires keeping a strategic balance of technical prowess and effective communication. A compelling resume headline and well-crafted contact information are included to create a strong initial impression.

A concise yet informative objective for resume engineering is crafted, serving as a focused summary that guides recruiters toward career goals. Work experience includes quantifiable achievements, qualifications, and a tailored job description to showcase engineering expertise. Education, certifications, and awards are included in the engineering resume to contribute to qualifications, demonstrating a well-rounded professional profile.

Mindfulness is crucial when deciding what not to include in an engineering resume, keeping it focused on professional details. Crafting an engineer resume involves strategically including relevant information showcasing qualifications and accomplishments. To tailor an engineer's resume involves a series of steps to ensure that the document aligns with the specific job description and highlights the most relevant skills and experiences. The resume is tailored to each job application, incorporating relevant keywords and showcasing specific engineering skills, including hard, soft, and technical skills, to enhance its effectiveness further.

Examples of engineering skills and technical expertise are provided, along with certifications and awards received, adding credibility to the resume. For specific engineering roles such as project engineering, systems engineering, or industrial engineering, the resume is tailored to highlight relevant experiences. An example of an engineering resume provides valuable insights into effective resume structuring and formatting.

What is The Best Resume Format for an Engineer?

The chronological resume format is the best resume format for an engineer. The chronological resume format for engineers organizes work experiences chronologically, starting with the most recent job. The chronological structure allows employers to quickly grasp an engineer's career progression and assess their most recent and relevant experiences. The chronological format is particularly effective for engineers with a solid and consistent work history, providing a clear career development timeline.

The functional resume format for an engineer emphasizes skills and qualifications rather than a chronological work history. The functional resume format is advantageous for engineers who want to highlight specific competencies or transferable skills, especially if they have employment gaps or a varied work history.

The combinational (or hybrid) resume format for engineers blends elements of both chronological and functional formats. The hybrid resume format lets engineers showcase their skills upfront while providing a chronological overview of their work experience. The combinational format suits those who want to emphasize skills while presenting a structured employment history.

How to Write an Engineering Resume

To write an engineering resume requires keeping a strategic balance of technical prowess and effective communication. An engineering resume starts with contact information and a brief professional summary or resume objective for engineering highlighting achievements and skills must follow. An engineering resume covers the professional experience, skills, and education. Each section showcases career goals, academic achievements, and engineering expertise. For example, civil engineer resumes often highlight specific skills and experiences related to infrastructure projects' design, construction, and maintenance. An engineering resume template is a helpful guide when creating a professional and effective resume. The exploration of the sections helps to create a professional engineering resume.

Resume Headline for Engineering Resume

A compelling headline for an engineering resume is a brief, impactful statement highlighting professional identity, skills, and career aspirations. Engineering resume headline acts as the initial impression for potential employers, providing a glimpse of qualifications. A well-constructed headline aligns with the targeted specific engineering field and highlights unique strengths. Keeping the engineering resume headline brief is essential while conveying a strong sense of professional identity and value proposition.

Results-Focused Engineer Excelling in Digital Transformations and Software Advancements

Award-Winning Achiever with Dual Master's Degree Holder in Electronic and Mechanical Engineering

Innovative Software Engineer Expert in Full-Stack Development and Agile Methodologies

Accomplished Engineer with a Doctorate in Innovative Engineering Solutions and Over a Decade of Field Experience

Contact info

It's crucial to provide clear and professional details in the contact information section of an engineering resume for potential employers to establish contact quickly. Contact info for the engineer's resume includes the full name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile, if available. The email address must be professional and reflect the individual's identity. Including the city and state is sometimes advantageous, particularly if open to relocation.

John A. Smith

(555) 123-4567

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/johnasmith

San Francisco, CA

Objective for Engineering Resume (Summary Example)

A resume objective for an engineer clearly outlines career goals and what is aimed to be achieved in the specific role being applied for. Engineering objective resume presents an opportunity to express professional aspirations and how they align with the company's objectives. The objective of an engineering resume is to keep focused and tailored to the position being sought.

Resume Objective

Electrical Engineer passionate about renewable energy, aiming to apply expertise at Elvest Corporation. Experience in designing and implementing sustainable energy systems sets me apart. Ready to make a significant impact on the team.

A professional summary of an engineer's resume is a more comprehensive overview of skills, experiences, and what is brought to the table as an engineer. An engineer's resume summary offers a snapshot of qualifications, emphasizing key achievements and strengths. The summary section showcases a unique value proposition and gives employers a compelling reason to continue reading the resume.

Resume Summary

Highly meticulous Electrical Engineer specializing in the design and fabrication of integrated circuits, backed by over four years of hands-on experience. Exceptional troubleshooting abilities, problem-solving acumen, and analytical thinking skills set apart. Notably resolved a long-standing testing bug at Company Diolet, leading to an impressive 17% surge in average testing time, showcasing a commitment to efficiency and continuous improvement.

Work Experience

The work experience section of an engineering resume is a detailed narrative providing an in-depth account of the professional journey. Job titles and the respective companies or organizations associated with them must clearly be articulated. Including the duration of employment for each position creates a chronological framework, allowing readers to understand the evolution and duration of the career. Primary responsibilities and duties in each role must be described, explaining the core tasks that define the contribution to projects and team dynamics. Using resume action words for engineers in the narrative provides an active and dynamic portrayal of the role of executing responsibilities.

Work Experience

Mechanical Engineer | Company Skyland | March 2017 - February 2022

• Participated in a team of 10 engineers to conceptualize, develop, and install advanced hydraulic systems.
• Maintained strict adherence to safety protocols and regulations during all engineering operations.
• Devised strategies to eliminate process inefficiencies, leading to a 10% boost in production output.
• Reorganized machinery arrangement to enhance workflow, resulting in an 8% increase in production capacity over four years.
• Consistently achieved company objectives while staying 15% under the allocated budget.

Qualifications

The qualifications section in an engineer's resume underscores the specific skills, competencies, and achievements relevant to each role. Placed beneath each work experience, the qualifications section provides a concise snapshot of the engineer's capabilities in the context of the responsibilities and accomplishments in the specific role.

• Designed and optimized 3D models for machine parts, reducing manufacturing time.
• Mentored four junior engineers in SolidWorks and Python programming methodologies.
• Supported the project manager in tracking project timelines by coordinating with vendors.
• Created 3D models of systems and assemblies to facilitate production and visualization of design objectives.
• Authored technical documents such as quality control plans and test reports for team review.

Engineer Job Description for Resume

The job description of the engineer's resume in the work experience section clearly explains previous roles and responsibilities. Tailoring job descriptions to each job application is crucial, highlighting the most relevant experiences and skills that align with the job requirements. The job description includes the official job title, the company or organization's name, and the employment duration. The job description of the engineer’s resume includes a list of the primary tasks, duties, and responsibilities held in the role. Being specific and using action verbs for engineering resume to describe accomplishments is essential. The goal is to show potential employers how past experiences make the candidate the best fit for the job.

Work Experience

Mechanical Engineer | TechPro, Inc., Boston, MA | November 2021 - Present

• Developed and enhanced 3D models for machine parts, reducing manufacturing time by 15%.
• Mentored four junior engineers in SolidWorks and Python programming methodologies.
• Supported the project manager in tracking project timelines by coordinating with vendors, ensuring projects were completed on time.
• Created 3D models of systems and assemblies to facilitate production and visualization of design objectives, improving design efficiency by 10%.

Mechanical Design Engineer | Exacta, Inc, Ithaca, NY | September 2017–September 2021

• Created four prototypes using SolidWorks and 3D printing technologies, successfully tested in field trials, reducing prototype development time.
• Conducted material analysis reports detailing selection criteria based on cost-effectiveness & performance metrics, saving the company 15% in material costs.
• Supervised a team of 6 engineers to ensure all components met safety protocols during testing, maintaining a safety record.
• Analyzed engineering drawings to ensure accuracy within the product specifications, reducing drawing errors by 20%.

Jr Mechanical Engineer | LMN Solutions Ltd., Ithaca, NY | February 2015–August 2017

• Assisted Senior Engineer in researching new materials suitable for projects requiring high strength & durability standards.
• Generated detailed parts drawings from models created using CAD software applications such as Autodesk Inventor Professional Suite & ProEngineer Wildfire.
• Assisted in preparing specifications for project purchase materials, reducing purchasing errors by 20%.
• Prepared and maintained engineering drawings per customer requirements, achieving a 95% customer satisfaction rate.

Education

The education section of an engineering resume provides information about the candidate's academic qualifications. The education for an engineering resume typically includes details about degrees earned, the institutions attended, and the dates of attendance. The engineering resume education section is more prominent, possibly including details about relevant coursework, projects, or thesis work for recent graduates or those early in their careers. Additional certifications or ongoing professional development courses must be included in education on the engineering resume.

Education

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | MIT | 2017 - 2019

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | University of California, Berkeley | 2013 - 2017

Engineering Skills for Resume

The engineering skills for a resume are a crucial component that highlights the specific hard, soft, and technical skills an engineer possesses. Engineer skills for a resume provides a concise overview of the engineer's proficiency and expertise in various areas, making it easier for employers to assess their qualifications quickly. Engineer resume skills are categorized into hard, soft, and technical skills, showcasing a well-rounded skill set essential for success in the engineering field.

Hard Skills for Engineers

The hard skills section of a resume focuses on the specific technical skills and competencies directly applicable to the engineering field. The practical and measurable hard skills for engineers often involve proficiency in tools, technologies, or methodologies. Engineers must showcase robust hard engineering skills resume to demonstrate their ability to perform technical tasks and contribute effectively to projects. Below is a list of 21 essential hard skills for engineers.

1. CAD
2. STEM Skills
3. PHP
4. Workflow Development
5. Knowledge of manufacturing processes
6. Debugging
7. Lean Manufacturing
8. Project Launch
9. Project management
10. Design
11. Prototyping
12. Testing Leadership
13. Troubleshooting
14. Computer Skills
15. Math
16. Mechanical skills
17. Machine Learning
18. Web Development
19. Knowledge of applicable laws
20. Technical documentation
21. Data Structures

Soft Skills for Accounting Resume

The soft skills section on a resume for engineers encompasses the interpersonal and non-technical skills contributing to effective collaboration, communication, and overall professional success. Soft skills are equally important for building strong relationships, working in teams, and navigating the dynamic challenges of the engineering environment. The list of 14 soft skills below gives potential employers a quick assessment of an engineer's suitability for collaborative and dynamic engineering environments.

1. Problem-solving
2. Collaboration
3. Attention to detail
4. Innovation
5. Adaptability
6. Communication skills
7. Leadership
8. Time management
9. Critical thinking
10. Interpersonal skills
11. Conflict resolution
12. Working under pressure
13. Emotional intelligence
14. Flexibility

Engineering Technical Skills for Resume

The technical skills for an engineering resume provide an in-depth overview of the individual's proficiency in utilizing specific tools, technologies, and methodologies relevant to the engineering field. Engineering technical skills are crucial for executing technical tasks, conducting analyses, and ensuring the successful implementation of engineering solutions. Employers often look to the technical engineer skills resume section on an engineering resume to gauge an engineer's suitability for a particular role based on their technical competencies. The list of technical skills below provides a quick reference for potential employers to evaluate the engineer's specific technical competencies.

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
• Programming languages
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Electrical Circuit Design
• Mechanical simulation
• Data Analysis
• LabVIEW
• MATLAB/Simulink
• Project Management Tools

Certifications

The certifications section of an engineer's resume is an important segment that showcases the individual's commitment to professional development, industry standards, and specialized knowledge. Certifications validate the engineer's skills and expertise in specific areas, providing additional credibility to the qualifications. Including the certifications section on an engineer’s resume helps employers understand the engineer's commitment to staying current in their field and acquiring recognized credentials.

Engineer In Training Certification (EIT)

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Certified Audio Engineer (CEA)

Certified Chemical Engineer (CCE)

Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC)

Petroleum Engineering Certification (PEC)

Structural Engineer (SE)

Awards

The awards section on an engineer's resume is a valuable component that highlights the individual's exceptional achievements, recognitions, and contributions in their professional journey. Including the awards section allows the engineer to showcase their excellence in specific projects, innovations, or industry-related activities. Awards serve as a tangible validation of the engineer's impact and significantly enhance the overall appeal of the resume.

What NOT to Include in an Engineer Resume

Crafting an engineer resume involves strategically including relevant information showcasing qualifications and accomplishments. However, certain elements are generally considered unnecessary or inappropriate for an engineer's resume. Below is a list of elements that do not need to be included.

• Personal information: The inclusion of personal details to the engineer’s resume, such as age, marital status, or social security number, is generally irrelevant to the application and contributes to potential bias.
• Unrelated hobbies or interests: Listing hobbies irrelevant to the engineering profession is not beneficial. Sticking to activities showcasing skills or attributes applicable to the job is better.
• Generic or overused phrases: Using clichés and generic phrases that don’t add substance to the resume is not helpful. Focusing on specific achievements and experiences is more beneficial.
• Unrelated work experience: Work experiences not directly relevant to the engineering field must not be included unless they highlight transferable skills. Emphasizing experiences that showcase technical skills, problem-solving, and project management is more effective.
• References: Including references on the resume is not recommended. Giving references on a separate page is more appropriate.

• Graphics or images: Adding unnecessary graphics, images, or photos clutters the resume and is compatible with applicant tracking systems.
• Unexplained employment gaps: Providing detailed explanations for every gap on the resume is unnecessary. Addressing gaps in a cover letter or during an interview is able to be done if asked.
• Objective pronouns: Using “I,” “me,” or “my” in the resume is not needed. Focusing on concise statements that begin with resume action words for engineers is more effective.

How to Tailor an Engineer's Resume

To tailor an engineer's resume involves a series of steps to ensure that the document aligns with the specific job description and highlights the most relevant skills and experiences. Below are the steps for tailoring an engineering resume.

• Read the job description. Reviewing the job description involves thoroughly reading the job description provided by the employer. Understanding the role's key responsibilities, required skills, and qualifications is important.
• Notice what’s mentioned multiple times. Paying attention to the skills, qualifications, or experiences mentioned in the job description provides insight into what the employer values most.
• Identify key skills and experiences. A key skill and experience identification step involves identifying the key skills and experiences in one’s own profile that align with the job description. The identification step includes discovering technical skills, project management experiences, or specific engineering knowledge.
• Highlight relevant skills and experiences. The identified skills and experiences must be highlighted in the resume. The highlighting process is able to be done in the ‘Skills’ section, within the descriptions of past roles, or in a summary or profile at the top of the resume.
• Use relevant keywords. Using keywords from the job description in the resume helps it get past applicant tracking systems and catch the attention of hiring managers. However, it’s important to ensure that keywords are natural and truthful.
• Review and revise. The final step involves reviewing the tailored resume to ensure it presents a strong, relevant, and cohesive picture of the candidate’s qualifications for the role. Revisions are necessary to improve clarity, correct errors, or align the document with the job description.

Keywords for Engineering Resume

Keywords are crucial in optimizing an engineering resume for human readers and applicant tracking systems (ATS). Incorporation of relevant keywords ensures that the engineering resume stands out to recruiters and passes through ATS filters, thereby increasing the likelihood of landing an interview. Appropriate keywords must be identified by carefully reviewing the job description, industry trends, and common terminology used in engineering. Including a mix of hard skills, soft skills, and industry-specific resume buzzwords engineering helps create a comprehensive and tailored engineering resume. Common keywords for engineering resumes are below.

• Analytical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Collaboration
• Attention to detail
• Innovation
• Adaptability
• Communication skills
• Teamwork
• Leadership
• Time management
• Critical thinking
• Creativity
• Interpersonal skills
• Conflict resolution
• Decision-making
• Flexibility
• Initiative
• Integrity
• Client relations
• Empathy

FAQ

What Should an Engineering Resume Look Like?

An engineering resume should look like a strategic document highlighting qualifications, skills, and accomplishments relevant to the engineering field. A well-crafted engineering resume must have a professional design engineering resume, including essential sections such as contact information, a professional summary or an objective for the resume for an engineer, work experience, skills, education, certifications, projects, awards, and professional memberships. Resumes for engineers are formatted clearly, using bullet points and quantifiable achievements to simplify scanning. Tailoring the resume to each job application is crucial, emphasizing the most relevant skills and experiences for the specific position.

How Do You Explain Gaps in Employment On an Engineering Resume?

Explain gaps in employment on an engineering resume by providing a brief, honest explanation. Focus on any skills development, freelance work, or relevant activities undertaken during the gap. Be transparent without going into unnecessary detail. The explanation must be concise and focus on the positive aspects of what was done during that time. Any skill development or experience that aligns with an engineering career must be emphasized. Unnecessary personal details are avoided, and potential employers must be assured that there is full preparedness to contribute effectively to the workforce based on experiences during and after the gap.

Should I include references? If so, what's the best way to do that?

No, you should not include references on a resume. A separate document must be created specifically for references. The references include names, titles, companies, contact information, and a brief description of the relationship with each reference. The reference document must be provided only when explicitly requested by the employer, typically after the initial stages of the hiring process or during the interview phase. The engineering reference strategy helps maintain a cleaner and more concise resume, enabling the limited space to be utilized for showcasing qualifications and experiences.

How long should I wait to follow up after I submit a resume for this job?

You should wait approximately one to two weeks to follow up after submitting a resume for an engineering job. Waiting time allows the employer sufficient time to review applications and shortlist candidates. Adjusting follow-up timing accordingly is appropriate if the job posting specifies a particular timeframe for the hiring process. However, it's crucial to be mindful not to follow up too frequently, as this is able to be perceived as overly assertive.