Get Hired

Get Hired: Engineering + Technology

For complete information on job search strategies, resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn, interviews, and more, review our starter tips to Get Hired in all careers as well as the specialized tips on this page.

Overview

When searching for a job or internship, most students turn to the internet and online job searching. While this is a common job search strategy, it definitely is not the only one. When you choose to search for a job online, you are choosing to put yourself in competition with every other engineering student that believes that is the only way to get a job. Therefore, it is important to know of the other methods. 

Connect With Professionals

Initiate your job search early (before you need or want a position) by creating targeted connections. Intentionally connect with your classmates, upperclassmen, your professors, recruiters that come to campus, and alumni, and maintain those relationships. When you are ready to look for an internship or job, let those connections know and see how they are able to help. 

Recruiting Events

A great way to start making targeted connections is by attending events such as information sessions, career fairs, panels with special guests, and workshops. View upcoming events on Handshake or receive a weekly digest of upcoming events through our weekly This Week @ Career email. While attending these events, be intentional by identifying your personal strategy and what you hope to gain from your attendance. Attendance by itself will not advance your career goals.

Resumes and Cover Letters

With almost any application, you will need to submit a resume. Start with creating your resume with a solid foundation. Then, adjust it to highlight your engineering experience, including relevant courses, academic and personal projects, research, and internships.

Do not forget about cover letters. You may feel that your writing skills are not your strong suit, however cover letters provide an opportunity to directly connect your skills and experience to the position. If a company requires it, utilize your cover letter to elaborate to the employer why you are sincerely interested in that company and position, and how you are a good fit for that role. We understand that cover letters can take a lot more time to craft than resumes. If the company states cover letters are optional and you have directly relevant experience listed on your resume, it could be a better use of time to apply to more jobs than writing a cover letter. If a company states cover letters are optional but you do not have direct experience, a cover letter may provide you with an opportunity to explain your transferable skills and provide a valuable connection to the organization.

Interviews

You should always prepare for interviews; whether you have excellent communication skills or not, it is essential! Review your resume to become well-versed in your experience and knowledge. You should be able to answer any question regarding any content on your resume. When discussing projects, be sure to discuss your responsibilities and skills, not just what your team accomplished or what your project does. Review relevant knowledge from your courses to discuss what topics you have learned.