Whether you’re hiring a mechanical engineer, an electrical engineer or someone in automation and robotics, you want the right mix of skills. It isn’t always easy to tell from a CV whether a candidate really has them.
Here is the mix worth looking for, and how to check for it.
Technical skills
Start with the job itself. Be clear which technical skills are essential from the start, and which you could teach.
Engineering processes
Look for a sound understanding of the processes your business uses. That might be machining, coating and assembly, or chemical and process engineering.
Software, design and automation
Most engineering roles need some computer skills, from programming to design software. Most engineers take part in design at some point, so an understanding of the design process helps too. Even basic knowledge of automation and robotics shows a candidate keeps up with modern systems.
Quality and data
Every engineer should understand quality control and quality assurance. Look for people who are comfortable with data and use it to reach sound decisions.
Practical experience
Knowing the theory is one thing. Look for evidence that a candidate has put it into practice: finding faults on equipment, spotting errors in assembly, or seeing a job through from plan to finish.
Ask for real examples. A short practical task, such as finding a fault or reading a drawing, can tell you more than a list of qualifications.
Planning their own work
Many engineers run their own jobs or projects. Look for people who plan their work, keep to time, and check progress as they go, changing course when something isn’t working.
Safety
Engineers in every field need a sound awareness of health and safety, and of the rules that apply to their work. It matters most around machinery, but it applies everywhere.
Ask how they’ve kept themselves and others safe, and how they’ve dealt with a safety concern. Someone who brings up safety without being asked is a good sign.
Learning new technology
Technology in engineering and manufacturing keeps moving. The engineers who do well are the ones who keep learning, whether that’s new software, new equipment or new ways of working.
Ask what they’ve learned recently and how they keep up. Look for curiosity and a willingness to train, as well as what they already know.
Knowledge of your sector
A candidate who understands your sector will settle in faster. Look for commercial awareness, an eye on the environmental impact of their work, and an interest in what your business makes and who it makes it for.
Don’t forget soft skills
Technical skills only go so far. Communication, teamwork and problem solving decide how well someone works with your team, so build them into your interviews too.
We can help
Our consultants only recruit for engineering and manufacturing, so they know what to look for in an engineer. Tell us what you need and we’ll call you back.