Congratulations! You’ve recently accomplished a remarkable achievement — you’ve graduated college with an engineering degree. Such a feat is no easy task, and you deserve all the praise you’re currently receiving and then some.

Credit: ThisIsEngineering via Pexels

But soon, you’re going to have to begin the job hunt. While it feels great right now to finally finish school, and you deserve some time to rest, you’re about to embark upon an exciting and rewarding engineering career! And after all, isn’t that why you put the effort and hard work into getting the degree — to eventually land the job of your dreams?

Here are some qualities that engineering hiring managers will be looking for when you start sending out resumes and engaging in interviews — so be sure to work on these skills and include them in your CV.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills

There are many different types of engineering. You can specialize in Civil, Computer, Automotive, Chemical, Aerospace, and several other unique engineering paths. Regardless of what type you chose as a career, you’ll need to have outstanding critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Engineering is all about the details. You’ll be given complex projects with complicated problems to solve in an organized and calculated manner.

Be prepared to answer challenging questions in interviews on how you’d work with a team to create solutions to intricate projects in your field. You already know what to do because you have the confidence and education to prove it — give yourself time to prepare and remember to breathe during your interviews.

Technical Skills

If you have projects, achievements, or awards that you’d like to share with the world, consider adding such accomplishments to your LinkedIn page. Or, create a personal website highlighting all that you’ve done throughout your academic and professional career so far. Managers will want to see evidence that you’re capable of creating excellent work.

Have you not had the opportunity to work hands-on on any engineering projects yet? Not to worry — instead of focusing on projects, concentrate on the courses you’ve taken that have given you skills to excel in your field. During interviews and in your resume, mention the software tools you’re proficient in and how utilizing such skills would be an asset to your preferred companies and positions.

Interpersonal Skills

While there’s quite a bit of solo work to do, you’ll also be working with a team as an engineer. You’ll be brainstorming ideas with each other and interacting with many different people in professional situations. Knowing how to communicate respectfully and clearly is a must when it comes to the engineering profession.

Reach Out to the Pros

Did you know that there are engineering recruiters that can help you find the perfect job? Work with a recruitment agency that specializes in looking for engineering and other industry-specific roles. They’ll help tailor your resume so that you’ll shine amongst other applicants, and they’ll know of open positions that will be perfectly suited to your skillset.

You’re about to start something you’ve wanted since you can remember — a long and fulfilling career in engineering. If you use these tips, you’ll start the journey in the right direction.