the mechanical engineering job search presentation by itanza lawrence career placement officer
TRANSCRIPT
BACKGROUNDWHY ARE YOU A VALUABLE ASSET TO THE ENGINEERING WORLD?
• Hard work• Determination• A great laugh• Ability to think outside of the box• Previous experience
Research, summer jobs, internships, student group leadership
• Writing Skills• Your culture
Several of these companies are viewed as the “Top Engineering Companies” to work for.
COMPANIES
INDUSTRIES• Aerospace• Automotive• Chemical• Construction• Defense• Electronics• Consumer Goods• Marine• Pharmaceuticals• Rail• Utilities
Choosing the Right Job
Considerations for your career plan may include:• Personal interests and values• Skills you have; skills you need• Personal goals for the next 5, 10, 25 years• Financial needs or goals• Preference for large or small company or work environment• Geographic preferences• Goals for growth (skills, experiences, finances, personal)
Online resources can help you explore various career plans.
THE RESUME
Must Have…
• Clearly defined margins• Contact information• GPA*• Clear Format
Must NOT Have…• Typos• Excessive formatting• “I”• More than 1 page
Name in LARGE font
Education at the topLocations and dates on the right hand side balance the resume
Clear Margin (no less than .65”)
Consistent Formatting - Location, font & size
Experience should be listed in reverse chronological order
Action words to begin bullet points
Include all relevant skills
Talk about the role your applying for
Tell them why you are excited
Tell them why your background adds to your value
Address additional skills
Close and reiterate interest
Organization/Preparation
• Create an excel sheet with relevant information– Organization name– Link– Interest level– Contact
• Keep it updated• Prepare before speaking with employers
NETWORKING
• LinkedIn– Mechanical Engineering Group
• Center for Career Education– Lionshare
• Conferences• Me! – MechE Office Hours are 1-3 PM on Tuesdays
Networking is a powerful tool responsible for the majority of career placement. This goes beyond personal, long-term relationships and can come from short term acquaintances developed through LinkedIn, Student Group Associations and introductions at career fairs.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
• International Students and Scholars Office• Don’t be afraid to use resources from other
schools – See Rice’s Job Search Pamphlet• Start Early• Network with International Alumni