Top Engineering Resume Examples & Pro Writing Tips

1. How do I write a summary statement for an engineering resume?

Most employers no longer want to see a section detailing your objectives. Rather than describing what you expect to gain from this position, use the summary statement to explain how the employer can benefit from hiring you.

As seen in the engineering resume samples, your summary statement should contain about three sentences that encapsulate the high points of your career. This information can include outstanding achievements, sought-after skills, and any other characteristic that distinguishes you from other candidates. Only include information relevant to the job; this is not the place to talk about your hobbies, no matter how interesting or impressive.

2. What’s the best way to include digital skills on an engineering resume?

You can include information about your digital knowledge throughout the various sections of your resume. Start with a brief mention of your strongest and most important digital skill in your summary section. You can then proceed with a more comprehensive list in your skills section. In your work history, be sure to mention software or coding experience.

That said, remember to take your cue from the job description you respond to. Some employers prioritize digital skills, while others give top billing to other abilities; place your emphasis accordingly.

3. How do I list references on an engineering resume?

Today, resume-writing convention dictates that you do not put references on your resume unless a job application specifically tells you to do so. Ignoring this unwritten rule can undermine your application by sending employers the message that you are out-of-touch.

Most employers do still want to see references. Employers accepting job applications online may feature a separate submission form for this information. Others may give you instructions for formatting and submitting your list of references.

4. What’s the best way to show I work well in a team on an engineering resume?

As an engineer, you may frequently work on projects with others, including members of other departments. Depending on your seniority, you may need to mentor junior colleagues, work with contractors or vendors, and make presentations to clients.

How can your resume reflect this? In addition to telling employers you excel at teamwork in your skills section, you also need to demonstrate this through your work history. Include specific metrics concerning team projects you have worked on or led. Emphasize your successful work with other professionals towards achieving important goals.

5. What should my education section look like in an engineering resume?

Most applicants for an engineering position should place their education section at the end of their resume. Within this section, you should list your education in reverse chronological order, with your most recent program appearing first. Do include your bachelor’s degree, even if it is in a different discipline, as many employers require a four-year degree and you want to demonstrate that you meet basic requirements. If you did not major in engineering, you may list relevant coursework. In addition, include relevant graduate or certificate programs. Do not mention high school information.

For each program, list the degree you received, the awarding institution and its location, and your year of graduation. If applicable, you may include relevant coursework or academic honors.