If you are looking to take the next step in your engineering career, chances are you are reviewing your skills and qualifications to make sure you are as up to date on your resume as possible (and if you haven’t yet, you certainly should). Ensuring you have the most in-demand skills that employers are looking for will help your resume get noticed right off the bat and help you land the type of job you will be satisfied with for the long term.
One of the most important and most pursued engineering skills in our current job market might not surprise you. But it’s worth asking the question, how are your IT skills? While they may not seem like a top priority for an engineering candidate like yourself, there’s an apparent trend in our clients requesting the sorts of candidates who they can rely on in the new, smart, and tech-savvy job market. Here are the top five skills you should have as a modern engineering candidate.
Mastery of the Basics
Today, many employers expect most of their employees to be up to date on the latest business communication and productivity software programs. That means that various email and document production software programs (such as Microsoft Outlook and Word) should certainly be in your wheelhouse. Knowledge and proficiency in standard spreadsheet and formula-based programs (like Microsoft Excel) are also likely to be expected.
Ad Hoc IT Skills
Employers like to see an additional skill set on an applicant’s resume is the ability to troubleshoot technical or IT issues as they occur. Whether your computer is having difficulty connecting to the network or a coworker’s email has been compromised, having the knowledge and ability to pinpoint the problem and then act to provide a solution will help save you and your employer time and money. The foundations on which there are opportunities to learn the latest and greatest technology advances will also help you position yourself in your job search.
Database Experience
Engineers often benefit from the ability to build and manage electronic databases, depending on their area of specialty. Big data and analytics is a growing field within many industries. Knowing how to design a database, manage the information efficiently, and translate the information into an actionable response is a great quality for an engineer to have. There are plenty of uses for electronic databases across various industries. Still, a thorough understanding of the concept behind what makes databases useful within your specific job market will be sure to give you an edge.
Mapping or Modeling Skills
Many engineers are trained and gain experience using specialist software programs such as ArcGIS or CAD/CAM packages during their university education. Familiarity with these programs is as essential to your qualifications as it is for a carpenter to be familiar with commonly used tools. These software programs are, in essence, the tools of your trade. Make sure you market those skills so employers know they can count on you to get the job done.
Teamwork Skills
While engineers are not generally hired for their social skills, working with and even leading a team is increasingly important for engineering professionals. The truth is that more heads are better than one, but only if they are able to work together for that special something extra. The ability to communicate, motivate, educate and even lead teams sets professionals apart in this field. Given that, teamwork is a skill set that is in demand today more than ever.
