Job hunting for electrical engineers
Job hunting for electrical engineersPresented by:Carrie
[email protected]
OverviewIntroduction (9/10) Resume writing (9/10)Cover Letter
writing (9/10) Job Search (9/24)Job Interviews (9/24)Online
presence (9/24)
Services offeredPeer AdvisingStaff AdvisingResume Help &
ReviewCover Letter Help & ReviewStarting the Job SearchSeawolf
Job Link QuestionsAdvance Resume and Cover Letter ReviewCareer
ExplorationCareer PlanningJob Search AssistanceGraduate School
PlanningInterviewing AssistanceLinkedIn Support
questionsWho has a resume?Whos resume is updated and current?
Who has looked at your resume? Who has participated in an
internship?Who is involved in student organizations or clubs?
What is the purpose of a resume?
PurposeGet an interviewGive a GOOD first
impressionContentLayoutLanguageGrammarTone
A resume is all about me. True or False?My job duties, What I
have accomplished, What I am good at!Where I am going?
falseNot totally falseMORE about how these things make you
qualified for a positionWhy should I consider you over someone
else?
Targeting EmployersUse your resume to convince employers that
your academic success is transferable to the workplace.Optimizing
keywordsShow employers how you can help them achieve their
objectivesHave a clear understanding of the company/industry when
creating your resume
Resume AppearanceOne page preferred, sometimes 2 is neededMake
sure formatted correctly when sending digitally (PDF form) Standard
fonts (Arial, Times, Helvetica)Margins: .5 (narrow) Smallest 11
point fontEmphasize points with bullets , UPPERCASE, bold,
italics
Resumes that appear too dense with copy may seem too difficult
to read. By creating white space the reader is more comfortable and
it conveys a sense of calm and organization. Look at your resume
upside down and from a distance. See what your initial reaction is
to the layout and revise it if necessary.
Bold and italics can be used sparingly in resumes. Too much can
be overkill.
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Resume Formats Reverse Chronological
Employment history organized: most recent position
firstHighlights accomplishments within each positionRecruiters and
employers often prefer this format
WHEN TO USE IT When seeking a position in the same fieldYour
career path has shown steady progress and increasing
responsibilitiesYou can demonstrate measurable results from your
workYou've held impressive job titles and/or have worked for
big-name employersYour work history has no gaps
CAUTION - Skills may be difficult to spot if they are buried in
job descriptions
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Headings Contact information Education Skills Work
Experience/Relevant Experience Volunteer Experience Activities
CONTACT INFORMATIONName (largest font)Address, City and State
(optional) PhoneEmail Address/avoid silly email addresses. Using
your first and last name is the most professional
EDUCATIONInclude expected graduation date, major, minorIf you
attended more then one school list most recent education firstGPA
(if 3.0 or greater)Academic honors Study Abroad
ExperienceInclude job title, name of company, location, dates,
accomplishments, description of responsibilities & results
produced
Can be paid, volunteer or internship
Be specific give numbers and details if possible
Accomplishment Statements17Formula: Action verb + Object +
Context+ Results Produced
Action Verb: Planned, initiated, coordinate
Object: Planned a meeting; Initiated a program..
Context: interesting detail- who you did for; time frame; number
of people; types of issue/population etc.
Results: the bottom lime effect of your effort (saved time or
money, exceeded sales goals, reduced errors)
Quantify whenever possible
Achieve same results with fewer resourcesImprove a task,
function or processInitiate a new undertakingSurpass accepted
standards
Additional ComponentsSkillsLanguages -- Specify language and
degree of fluencyComputer -- Name software and
hardwareClubs/Activities (especially leadership)Relevant
CourseworkProfessional AffiliationsHonors &
AwardsPublications
Writing Style - ExperienceUse present tense for current jobUse
past tense for previous jobsDont use pronouns I, We, TheyDont refer
to yourself in 3rd personComplete sentences and periods are not
necessary
Entry Level Electrical EngineerGeneral Atomics and Affiliated
Companies**DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:** + Perform System Level
Lifecycle Management Engineering activities on Unmanned Aircraft
Systems \(UAS\)\.+ Focus on systems affected by Diminishing
Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages \(DMSMS\) issues and
coordinate activities to ensure a solution is in place before
production or sustainment is impacted\.+ Constructs timelines for
end\-of\-life \(EOL\) items and design change implementation,
evaluates and coordinates bridge/last time buys options\.+
Interface with Project Engineers and Program Management across
multiple platforms on status updates with regards to the resolution
of obsolescence issues\.+ Hold discussions with Engineering on
replacement parts and technical matters and Program Management on
proposals, contracts and scheduling requirements\.+ Preparation and
support for customer deliverables \(CDRLs\) and meetings\.+
Organize, schedule, and conduct Lifecycle Management review board
meetings to obtain and/or exchange data as necessary ensure
production requirements and schedules are met\.+ Interface with
Procurement / Subcontracts on lifecycle status requests from
suppliers to ensure availability and predict EOL obsolescence
issues\.+ Gathers, collects, records, tracks, and verifies data and
information from multiple sources and maintains records and file
systems electronically on shared drives\.+ Experience/knowledge of
DMSMS practices and aircraft systems desired\.+ Experience writing
technical documents and computer literate with versatile knowledge
of the computer applications and MRP systems used in the industry
\(MS Word, Excel, Access, Project, SAP, Windchill, etc\.\)\.+ The
successful applicant will be a multi\-tasking team player with a
hands\-on approach and able to work independently\.+ Excellent
verbal, presentation and written communications\.+ Must be able to
obtain a security clearance\.
VOLUNTEER/InterNship EXPERIENCE
Paid or unpaid work is experience and valuableMake sure to list
the hours you committed/weekly, monthlyDescribe the environment
that you worked in and the responsibilities that were required of
you.
What not to includeQuirky, silly email addressesPersonal info.
religion, marital status, healthHobbiesReferences- separate
documentBad formattingImagery your picDifficult to read
fontsEmbellishing the truth about your accomplishmentsAnything that
could work against you
Final PointersPut your best foot forward - be proud of your
accomplishments!
Be honest would former supervisors agree with what youve
included?
Ask a few people to review your resume: is it clear, specific,
and to-the-point?
Proofread, proofread, proofread! Assume employers will catch all
mistakes
Does the resume present your strengths up front? Does the order
of information make sense? Are keywords from the job description
included in the resume? Have you quantified your accomplishments to
give the reader a sense of the magnitude of your responsibilities?
Does the information feel complete and present a clear picture of
what you have to offer? Besides reading it yourself, ask two or
three trusted colleagues or friends to critique it.
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Questions?Comments?
5 minute break
Cover LettersPurpose of letter of introduction:Supplements and
clarifies resumeShould be targeted in response to a specific job
openingDo not send out general lettersShould be addressed to hiring
manager, by nameSpell correctly!
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Cover LettersParagraph 1 Position you are applying for How you
learned of opening (ad? referral?)State who you areWhy you are
interested in the company
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Cover LettersParagraph 2 Describe how your skills and background
match job descriptionState top 3 skills in the first sentence topic
sentenceTransition with soft skillRefer to the fact that your
resume is enclosed
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Entry Level Electrical EngineerGeneral Atomics and Affiliated
Companies**Job Qualifications** + Essential Qualifications
Typically requires a bachelors degree in engineering or a related
technical discipline from an accredited institution\.+ Must have a
basic understanding of engineering concepts, principles, and
theory\.+ Demonstrates the ability to follow and apply basic
engineering knowledge, adapt standard techniques, and utilize the
required diagnostics, tools and equipment, while ensuring safety
and regulatory compliance\.+ Must be able to understand new
concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving
environment\. Good communication, computer, and interpersonal
skills are required to enable an effective interface with other
professionals, to produce appropriate documentation, and to present
results to a limited internal audience\. Must be able to work both
independently and on a team\.+ Able to work extended hours as
required\.
Cover LettersParagraph 3Reiterate interest in positionLet them
know when/if you will follow-upCall them two weeks after
application closing date?State that you would be glad to provide
the employer with any additional information neededThank the
employer for his/her time and consideration.
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Questions?Comments?
Next time Job SearchJob InterviewsOnline presence Ponder: What
is my image when someone Googles my name or looks at my social
media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn)
Next Time (Sept. 24) Skype with Neil Pomerleau
LinkedinWhy is it important and how can I make my profile look
the best?
When: Next Thursday, September 17th at 2pm Where: HERE! Upcoming
event !
OverviewJob SearchJob InterviewsOnline presence
Job SearchWhere do I want to work?Geographically IndustryWhere
do I find jobs?Examples job titles
Industries including:Aerospace, automotive, computer and
electronics manufacturers, transportation, telecommunications,
guidance and control systems, defense, electric power and energy,
semiconductor, electronics, environmental, medical equipment,
chemical, pharmaceutical, computer, pulp, paper, textile,
metalScientific service companies (instruments, lab equipment,
software)Technical service companies (intelligence, information
systems, defense)Federal government:Armed forces, National
Aeronautics and Space Administration, Federal Bureau of
Investigation, National Institute of Standards and Technology,
Departments of Defense, Energy, Transportation, National Institutes
of Health39
Where do I want to work? AppleRandstadManTechBAE SystemsNorthrop
GrummanIntelMentor GraphicsAvago TechnologiesMedtronicBayerBlack
& VeatchBroadcomExtron ElectronicsGlobal Technology
AssociatesLawrence Berkeley National LaboratoryTime Warner
CableSolar CityPG&EL-3 CommunicationsJones Lang LaSalleFesto
CorporationApplied MaterialsEaton CorporationBelcanTAD PGS, Inc.
Lockheed MartinFluorSunPower Corporation
Industries including:Aerospace, automotive, computer and
electronics manufacturers, transportation, telecommunications,
guidance and control systems, defense, electric power and energy,
semiconductor, electronics, environmental, medical equipment,
chemical, pharmaceutical, computer, pulp, paper, textile,
metalScientific service companies (instruments, lab equipment,
software)Technical service companies (intelligence, information
systems, defense)Federal government:Armed forces, National
Aeronautics and Space Administration, Federal Bureau of
Investigation, National Institute of Standards and Technology,
Departments of Defense, Energy, Transportation, National Institutes
of Health
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Where do I find jobsSeawolf Job LinkLinkedInEngineering Career
Opportunities (Jobs & Employment) GroupInstitute of Electrical
and Electronics EngineersO*Net Career Cornerstone
CenterIndividually looking at companies and organizations
websites
Job InterviewsPreparationAnalyze the positionKnow the
EmployerReview your QualificationsPrepare QuestionsPractice,
Practice, Practice Interview DayAfter the Interview
Interview PreparationStep One: Analyze the position
Review the Job Description
Highlight the duties and qualifications of the position
Look at Occupational Outlook Handbook and O*Net for occupational
information
Do not get discouraged if you do not meet all qualifications
Interview PreparationStep Two: Know the EmployerLearn about the
employers:MissionServices ProductsOrganizational structureFuture
prospectsKnow the employers competitors
Interview PreparationStep Three: Review Your QualificationsKnow
your experience: WorkInternshipsVolunteerClass
projectsCourseworkStudent ActivitiesInterests & Hobbies
Identify the skills and areas of knowledge developed in these
areas and be prepared to show how this experience prepared you to
contribute to an organization.
The STAR Method Situation/TaskGive some background of situation
or task. Answer the questions: What? When? Where? and for Who?
Include obstacles that you had to overcome.ActionExplain the action
you took. This does not mean what the group did, but what you did.
Practice I instead of We statements; assume ownership of your
accomplishments. ResultDescribe the positive benefits that you
achieved. Quantify the results and relate your skills, actions, and
results to employer needs when possible.
STAR Practice Exercise Give an example of of class project you
did as part of a team?Outline it using the STAR format.
In pairs, practice saying it.
Get feedback on your use of the STAR format.
Interview PreparationStep Four: Prepare QuestionsAsk employers
questions to demonstrate your interest in working for the
organization.
Questions about salary and benefits are best left until a job
offer has been extended.
Be sure your questions are not answered in job description or
company website/literature.
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Interview PreparationStep Five: Practice, Practice,
PracticePractice your responses to interview questions to make you
feel more at ease and confident. Visit Career Services to set up a
mock interviewGoogle interview questions, then ask a friend, family
member, professor, classmate to help you practice and give you
feedbackPractice your answers out loud
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Interview Day!Arrive early (15 minutes easy is common)
Bring pen, paper, notes & extra copies of your resume and
references (having them all in a portfolio looks good)
Dress appropriately
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WomenMenConservative, dark suit (knee length skirt or pants);
avoid low riding pants or tight clothingConservative, dark suit
(navy, black, or gray; pinstripe or solid)Collared, button-down
shirt or modest scoop neck top; avoid camisoles or low cut
topsIroned shirt in a conservative color and tie with understated
patternsComfortable shoes flat or low heel; wear plain, non
patterned hosiery if wearing a skirtMatching belt and shoes, dark
socks to mid-calf; conservative lace-up dress shoes that are clean
and polishedConservative makeup and nails; minimal jewelryHair cut,
shaved, well groomed; remove jewelryAvoid perfume or scented
lotionAvoid aftershave or cologneCan bring a padfolio and a small
purseCan bring a padfolio
Attire Professional
During the InterviewMaintain eye contact, positive attitude,
energy, composure and confidenceRemember to breatheDont fidget with
your handsTurn off your cell phone! Consider leaving it in your car
or at homeAsk for clarification if youre confused by a questionAsk
for a business cardAsk about the next step and timelineThank the
interviewer for his/her time
What if I dont know how to answer the question?Pause for a brief
reflective momentAsk to have the question repeatedDeliberately
restate the question (just dont repeat EVERY question)Ask for
clarificationTake a sip of waterOK to look away when thinking
After the InterviewReview how it went, make notes about what you
want to do differently next time
Write a thank you noteEmail is okay if you need a quick
turn-around time or if recruiter is on the roadNo cutesy
stationerySay something specific to the interview so they know the
same note cannot be sent to any interviewerUse the note as a way to
reinforce a strength or mention something you forgot
Reminders & SuggestionsObtain a list of practice questions
and jot down short answersStand in front of a mirror and rehearse
your answersAsk a friend or family member to help you practice and
give you feedbackConduct a test run the day before the interview
Get a good nights sleep-be well rested and alert for the
interview
Relax and be yourself!
Questions?Comments?
Online presence
Search engines 78% (Google)Social networking sites 63%Photo and
video sharing sites 59%Professional and business networking sites
57%Personal Web sites 48%Blogs 46%News sharing sites (Twitter)
41%Online forums and communities 34%Web sites that aggregate
personal information 32%Virtual world sites 32%Professional
background checking services 27%Online gaming sites 27%Classifieds
and auction sites 25%Other 2% (Credit Report)
Where Are They Looking
Create, use and check an email address that is professionalMake
sure that your outgoing voicemail message is appropriateSet strict
privacy settings for your social media accountsIf you choose to
keep a public setting, regularly review your profile, delete
inappropriate posts and photosGoogle yourself! Check all versions
of your name, including nicknames. Dont forget to check images
tooDo this periodically
What To Do Now
Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedInJoin professional association
groups within your field of study or interest on both Facebook and
LinkedInMost major employers have a Facebook page that you can
LikeUpdate your profile with posts related to your job search
activities, so employers and others in your network can see how
serious you are about your careerUse LinkedIn to include all of the
experience on your resume (not limited to 1 page like hard copy
resumes)When reaching out to establish connections, be sure to
personalize each message about who you are, why you would like to
connect and whether you have a common affiliation or connection
Leveraging Social Media
Questions?Comments?
Career ServicesStaff Career AdvisingAdvanced Resume & Cover
Letter ReviewCareer Exploration/Career PlanningJob Search
AssistanceInterviewing AssistanceSalazar Hall 1070Mon-Fri
8:00-4:30(707) 664-2730
Carrie: [email protected]:
[email protected]
