Set Yourself Apart From Other Engineers

Do you want an edge amongst your peers during your civil engineering job search? Well, you can start by setting yourself apart from the crowd. Let's say, for example, if Company A had 10 resumes from recently-graduated engineers, how do you think they would pick a select few to actually interview? By selecting those that have more to offer. Below are a few tips that are sure to catch the attention of prospective employers:

1. Internships: Yes, that's right. Many companies are willing to take young engineers for internships, particularly in the summer. Some reasons why they like to do this is because it's cheap labor for them, it's an easy way to recruit top talent, and it makes companies look good to perspective employees. Make some phone calls or even send emails to various local consultants, and I'm confident you'll have a few that will give you an opportunity to join them for a few weeks.


2. Graduate Studies: A civil engineering degree is what I like to call a "liberal arts degree in engineering." During your undergraduate studies, you learn very little about the five major areas of civil engineering, which are structural, transportation/traffic, geotechnical, water resources and environmental. It's not until you pursue a graduate degree that you will dive into the specialty of your interest. In my opinion, it makes sense to be technically skilled as an engineer before you take the step into the role of management. Often times those that know their specialty very well are those that are respected more by clients, and are able to hold their own during presentations, meetings and/or disputes. Don't take this important step for granted. Most companies gauge how interested you are in your profession by the effort you make into improving your engineering skills. So take the time to think about this and take some action.


3. Memberships: Are you a member of any engineering societies or associations? If not, you should seriously consider it. The American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers are two of the more popular organizations to be involved with. Besides getting updates on what goes on in our profession, this is a great way to network and meet prospective clients. Employers will see your interest and initiative to be more involved and promote our civil engineering profession. I can tell you from my experience, not many civil engineers are active members and will help you score some brownie points.


4. Contribute: I created this blog and am in the process of developing web apps for geotechnical engineers at geotech-apps.com because I have a strong passion for the field of civil engineering. Little did I realize that the fact that I'm involved with engineering outside of my work really caught the attention of prospective employers. Starting a blog, contributing guest blog posts, publishing articles, developing applications, etc. are great ways to set yourself apart.


5. Licensure: Get your Professional Engineering license as soon as you can. A lot of engineers wait to get this important title, and also come up with a dozen excuses as to why it's not the right time to study and take the test. You can do it! Get it done! This will not only increase your salary, but it will also help you become an established engineer.

These are some of many ways to set yourself apart from your fellow engineers. If you really want to increase your chances at landing your dream job, then take my advice and follow these steps. You'll thank me later.

Posted by: Rey Villa