When you are one among a sea of applicants, it can be hard to know how to best stand out and catch an employers’ attention. Your CV is typically the first document to cross a hiring manager’s desk, so you need it to make an impact. There are many factors that go into creating the perfect CV. Appearances count for a lot, so you need to make sure you get the format right. You want to make your CV easy to read and remember, so organization and structure is key as well. Finally, your CV should include all relevant professional accomplishments and skills that would be an asset to you in the position you want. Our mechanical engineer CV example offers a practical instance of using these considerations to create maximum impact.
City, State Zip Code
T: 000-000-0000
E: email@email.com
I use my solid skillset and knowledge as a base for coming up with innovative solutions for introducing new product lines and improving existing products. My high level of versatility allows me to draw on a diverse set of skills and think out of the box when confronting a problem. I pride myself on seeing the big picture while maintaining my focus on details. I am an enthusiastic team player who values the contributions of my colleagues in cooperative problem-solving.
Used CAD techniques and Abaqus Fea Suite to simulate, model and analyze structural components. Developed new product ideas through sketching, modeling and creating engineering designs. Created prototypes. Conducted several phases of testing. Developed structures to support production while maintaining quality control. Created improvements for existing product design and production.
Performed mechanical engineering support for the product development group.
Licenses: Professional Engineer 2011
Engineer in Training 2009
- Track record of coming up with cost-saving, effective designs.
- Innovative approach to product development.
- Comprehensive experience of each stage of product development.
- Versatile, multi-disciplinary thinker.
- Extensive computer skills include AutoCAD, Creo ElemntsPro, MATLAB, Minitab, MS Project, SolidWorks.
Passionate amateur painter who loves exploring new techniques and materials. Committed to fitness; avid hiker who enjoys finding new trails.
Tips for Writing Your Mechanical Engineer CV
Mechanical Engineer Overview
When deciding what to include in your CV, make sure you are fully aware of typical job requirements for mechanical engineers. Mechanical engineers need to possess a high degree of technical skill. They are most often involved in product design, manufacturing processes and development. Mechanical engineers also provide support and maintenance for manufacturing processes or products. An engineer typically works with a team and needs to be able to work productively with others. In many locations, along with the required education, engineers must possess additional licensing or certification. As in our mechanical engineer CV example, be sure to include any licensing information – do not take it for granted that employers will assume you have all required licenses if you do not specify.
Skills and Knowledge to Include in Your Mechanical Engineer CV
Mechanical engineers should possess the technical skills necessary to participate at all stages of projects. Depending on your individual experience and the position you are applying for, you may need to focus on one aspect of product development or participate throughout all stages. Your CV should highlight the portion of your experience that is most relevant to your prospective position. The ability to use specialized computer software is essential for tasks such as creating models and simulations, so you should list your computer proficiencies as well. So-called people skills are also essential for success in mechanical engineering. Engineers typically work as members of a team, so the ability to cooperate and communicate effectively is key. Engineers may also need to explain technical terms to non-technical specialists such as management personnel, and to understand and explain project goals and parameters. As in the above mechanical engineer CV example, your CV’s skills section should include the attributes that make you a great team player.
Tips for Writing an Excellent CV
After reviewing our mechanical engineer CV example, you can start putting together your own CV. The following tips offer some helpful general guidance for this endeavor.
- Always proofread your CV before sending it to employers. Ideally, you should review it several times, then have a friend or family member take a look to make sure you didn’t miss anything. Spelling mistakes and typos are easy to make, yet they detract immensely from your CV’s professionalism.
- Make sure to include current and correctly typed contact information at the top of your CV. Missing or misplaced punctuation can mean that an interested employer will never be able to reach you.
- Your CV can and should include your hobbies and interests. Employers want to see a well-rounded person with diverse interests. Do, however, use your common sense when deciding what to place on your CV.
- Do not include experience and schooling that is not relevant to the position you are applying for, unless you need to highlight a transferable skill you gained.
- Your CV is not an appropriate venue for discussing your reasons for seeking a new position. Including them in your CV can be a red flag to employers, who are likely to assume that you are either very defensive about your reasons for leaving or that you are alarmingly ignorant of the conventions for CV writing. Either way, you will not create a favorable impression.
