Engineering positions are in high demand, and the industry is only expected to grow throughout the decade. However, recruiters and managers at engineering firms can still be picky when they are seeking out candidates to fill open positions on their team.
At Austin Nichols, we recognize the importance of standing out among other candidates. We want to share the top skills that engineering firms will be looking for this year. If you will be in the market for an engineering job in 2020, you will want to make sure to highlight these skills during your job search.
Technical Skills
Technical engineering skills will be the first thing that recruiters check for on resumes. Engineer candidates must have the skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position for which they are applying. This includes up-to-date knowledge about technology, software, and applications. Technical skills will always come up in interviews, so having specifics examples of applying these skills is always good to have on hand.
Recruiters will also look for candidates who are willing and capable to continue their education and receive additional training, whether it be from graduate school, seminars, or training workshops. The ability to adapt and continuously develop technical skills is essential in the everchanging fields of engineering.
Industry Knowledge
Knowledge about all STEM-related fields is a must when you are looking for jobs within engineering fields. Before interviewing for an engineering position, you should research the industry, sub-industry, products, and services of the company you are applying for as well as their competitors. You can also read up on industry trends and news. All these topics may come up in the interview, so it is great to have talking points ready if they do. It also shows that you keep with the frequent changes and innovations of the industry.
Communication
Aside from technical skills and industry knowledge, the top skill recruiters and employers look for in candidates is communication. For any position, you will need technical and non-technical, verbal and written, and online and in-person communication skills. Communication is needed for brainstorming, designing products, problem-solving, team building, and so many other areas of a given business. Although technical skills are essential, being able to clearly articulate your ideas, thoughts, and progress is vital to working on any project or with any team.
Interpersonal Skills
In addition to communication, you must have interpersonal skills, because it influences how people perceive you. Interpersonal skills encompass positive attitudes, cooperation, professionalism, accountability, and teamwork. Recruiters will have specific questions that will allow you to demonstrate how you have applied interpersonal skills in past positions. These skills are important when interacting with clients and partners because you are representing your organization. The firm you are applying for will want to make sure you can present a professional, credible representation of the company.
Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
Any engineering project or assignment will have bumps in the road. Without skills to manage conflicts and problems, small misunderstandings can completely disrupt a project or cause conflicts between team members. Problem solving and critical thinking allow you to not only notice these issues right away but also assess and come up with solutions to them. During an interview, you should highlight your problem solving and critical thinking skills by telling stories about how you previously overcame an issue in the workplace.
Motivation
A motivated candidate will be chosen over someone who seems to be looking for a job rather than a career. Managers want enthusiastic and committed employees who will add positivity and value to the team. You will get opportunities to show these skills throughout the application process. Resumes and cover letters can demonstrate interest and help you stand out. During the interview, having an upbeat attitude, asking questions, and paying attention will demonstrate your interest in the position as well as the motivation and commitment you will have if you were to be hired.
Leadership and Management
When looking for candidates, employers will likely seek out individuals looking to build careers and grow within the organization. If you are applying for a management position, you will need to describe how you exemplify the leadership skills necessary to lead a team. Managers of an engineering team must know how to evaluate and utilize each team members’ strengths to maximize the group’s efficiency. Motivation, enthusiasm, and commitment will demonstrate your attitude and interest in the position as well as your desire to grow within the company and take on leadership roles and management positions.
