How to Hire Employees for an Engineering Firm

When establishing an engineering firm, keep in mind that the performance of the firm's engineers and support staff is precisely the commodity that is on sale. So set out to build a roster and support staff that is worth the fees you charge. Take special care when hiring employees for the engineering firm.

Instructions

Prepare Your Firm to Take on Employees

1. Complete IRS Form SS-4 and submit it to the IRS in order to obtain your Employee Identification Number (see Resources below).

2. Call the IRS at [phone] to get a Federal Tax Deposit Coupon book also found in IRS Form 8109. Specify a federal depository bank in which to make tax deposits for employees.

3. Set up human resources policies for your firm and compile them into an employee handbook.

4. Write or commission an employee contract. Use a standard contract or have one written by a lawyer.

Target Your Search

1. Mine personal contacts for friends, teachers and friends of friends who could make great engineers.

2. Search the alumni database of your school, either through the web or through calling the alumni office.

3. Join a social networking site to find potential employees. Some social networking sites offer the option to search other people's profiles for keywords tailored to the kind of person you want to hire. Also, some sites allow you to post your job openings and discover other people who identify themselves as looking for the type of work you offer.

Spread the Word

1. Start by generating word of mouth about the engineering firm going through a hiring phase.

2. Take out a classified ad in a local or regional professional newsletter and inform the readers of hiring opportunities with the engineering firm.

3. Post a job-opening notice on job search sites. Anyone looking for an engineering position in your area would have a chance at seeing your posting.

Hiring Process

1. Collect resumes and pre-screen candidates.

2. Perform interviews.

3. Choose your new employees and notify them of their acceptance. Discuss with the potential hires the benefits of employment and what sort of salary and benefits package you are able and willing to provide.

4. Have employees sign the employment agreement, company policy handbook and applicable tax documents (W-4 or 1099).

Tips & Warnings

• You can hire non-licensed engineers, such as those straight out of college, so long as one of the partners of the firm has a professional engineering license.

• Establish a probationary period during which the firm and the new hire evaluate whether they are an appropriate fit.

Resources

• IRS website for form SS-4