Engineering Interview Preparation
Engineering job interviews vary greatly depending on the type of engineer you are and the specific job you are considering. Small companies tend to interview differently than large companies, and the questions asked of a computer engineer are not the same as those asked of a civil engineer. Nonetheless, some general advice on preparing for an engineering interview will allow you more confidence on your interview day.
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Resume
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All interviewers will expect to have a copy of your resume at the time of your interview. Be sure your resume is organized, up to date, honest and comprehensive. Consider using an online template if you have not yet written your resume. Engineering resumes should include work on all relevant projects as well as special field knowledge. If you are a civil engineer but have had mechanic engineering experience, be sure to point that out.
Portfolio
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Consider creating a portfolio to present in addition to your resume. A portfolio is a visual showcase of your work that allows the interviewer to see some of your skills in operation and alleviates some of the stress of having to do all the talking during the interview. According to Jake Newton, a senior recruiter at technical staffing firm Aerotek, only one out of ten interviewees arrive prepared with a portfolio, which really sets them apart. Consider a bound presentation of projects you have done with photos and text, perhaps a video or a slideshow or even a website. If you do not have many completed projects, consider solving a problem that you might encounter in your new job and present your solution to it during your interview. A section of this portfolio might include such recognitions as diplomas or letters of recommendation or other documents showing your participation in things related to your field. If you plan to use a digital presentation (online or via CD/DVD), be sure you will have access to a computer or bring your own. Bring a paper version in case of technical glitches.
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Learn About the Company
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Before your interview day, take some time to familiarize yourself with the company's work, products, staff and site. If their work is different from your experience, explore how your knowledge or skills could be used. If you don't have specific experiences relevant to what the company does, draw up some examples of how you would approach problems you imagine you might confront. These examples could be CAD drawings, problem calculations, technical writings, systematics, etc.
Interview Prep
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Being outgoing and confident during your interview is a must. If you tend to be a more nervous or quiet scientist, as you prepare for your interview make a list of your strengths and incorporate the language used in the job description. Rehearse a one- to two-minute presentation explaining your qualifications. Use online sample interviews to practice your responses to some common interview questions. Interview questions will vary, but expect to talk about your education, previous work experience, problem-solving and your strengths, weaknesses and goals. Prepare your questions about the position or company. If you have a small model of a project related to the job you are interviewing for (a circuit, or prototype, or small motor, etc.), bring it to demonstrate your skills in this area.
The Interview Day
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An engineering interview is different from other interviews in the sense that there is a good chance you will be expected to respond to technical questions. Be prepared to problem-solve on your feet, and again consider using any props or drawings that you think might help you best highlight your knowledge.
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References
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- Photo Credit angry engineer with pencil and mechanical drawing image by Andrei Merkulov from Fotolia.com
