How to write an application for a Graduate Engineer Job: Guide

Unlike a well-defined mathematical engineering problem, applying for graduate engineering jobs can often feel bewildering and opaque. However, there is a systematic approach to it. Top engineering graduate programmes, faced with huge application volumes, need a standardised process to identify suitable candidates efficiently. This reduces the process to a checklist—meet the criteria, and you move forward.

Through extensive discussions with graduate recruiters and my own experience in a graduate job scheme, I’ve gained insights into how this process works. This internet is full obvious advice (e.g. "check your spelling"), so this blog focuses on the more nuanced aspects of the application process for graduate engineering jobs.

How to answer questions and write your cover letter for engineering graduate scheme applications

Signal that you have a steep growth trajectory ahead of you

Your content should signal your capacity for growth and adaptability, rather than emphasise the immediate contributions you can make on your first day. Employers have graduate engineering job programmes not to get immediate value from junior workers, but to cultivate their next generation of leaders.

Focus on developing a narrative that frames you as someone poised to make significant contributions in the medium term, with the potential for leadership in the long term. Do this by positioning yourself as an individual driven by curiosity, committed to personal growth and with strong interpersonal skills.

If you feel you haven't done anything interesting outside of your studies that signals leadership potential on your application for engineer graduate jobs, read about how to optimise your university years to get into engineering graduate jobs

Understand how to properly tailor your graduate engineering job application cover letter

Don't make the mistake of just listing facts about the company. Offer distinctive reflections or insights about the company that set you apart. It doesn’t have to be tied to a personal experience, so there’s no excuse not to do it.

Don’t be overly formal or use fancy words

Everyone knows that fancy speak aims to hide lack of substance. It distracts readers from the core message, and it certainly does’t impress anyone. Consider these two phrases: "I have ascertained skills" versus "I've developed skills". Both are saying the same thing, but one is concise and not awkward.

Being overly formal also makes you look naive about the modern working world which has become not-so-formal. The engineer reviewing your application is probably under 40, watches reality TV, uses Tik Tok, and speaks with colleagues in a casual manner, similar to how you speak with your friends. So there’s no need to start your civil engineering job cover letter with "Dear Madam" and speak like a 19th-century lawyer.

Be as succinct as possible

It’s not just your story being assessed; it’s also your story-telling skills; In today's fast-paced world, brevity is a prized asset. Filler content and unnecessary words dilute your message.

Think about the adage often misattributed to Mark Twain: "I didn't have time to write a short letter, so I wrote a long one instead." His point is that it's easy to tell a story if you loads of time, and it's hard to convey a rich density of ideas.

Review your application multiple times and delete unnecessary words.

Don’t just list your interests and hobbies

Many engineering resumes include a section dedicated to personal interests, typically featuring broad subjects related to the job being applied for, such as civil engineering, structural engineering, the history of engineering, business, and football.

This is an important section but note that just listing these interests adds zero value to your graduate engineering job application. Instead, expand on one or two interests with specific examples that demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm.

For instance, if you are passionate about civil engineering, mention how you channel this interest into writing insightful blog posts in your leisure time or how you follow and engage with the content of a notable expert in the field.

Come across as quirky and likeable

Recruiters hiring for graduate engineering jobs are told to look for candidates who are unique, so standard interests (like football) don’t catch their attention as much as unconventional ones. Make their job easier by having distinctive interests.

Just remember that your application should not be a tally of disjointed stories. The person reviewing your application is trying to string a narrative and form a personal connection with you. Strike the right balance in your storytelling—you want to intrigue and engage, but not bewilder.

Submitting your graduate engineering job application form

Engage with Alumni

Alumni from your university who are already working in the company you are applying to, can offer insider tips on the application process and sometimes even flag your application to recruiters. Use LinkedIn to find and reach out to them. It's awkward but you should do it because you have nothing to lose.

When to submit your graduate engineering job application form

Engineering graduate scheme applications start in September/October for the next year’s intake, with some as early as August. Deadlines are typically in November and December, but some employers opt for ongoing recruitment. Start early, but remember it’s never too late to apply.

Apply to lots of engineering graduate job schemes but don’t spray and pray

Given there’s hundreds of applications per place in good engineering graduate programmes, your application will get a brief first review. Apply to lots of schemes, including lesser-known ones, but don’t compromise on the quality of your application.

Probably don’t cheat on the reasoning tests

Many engineering graduate scheme employers make you retake reasoning tests in person during your assessment centre. If your scores vary significantly, it raises suspicion and could lead to rejection. Practice and improve your scores honestly instead of having someone else take the tests for you.

Conclusion

Writing your application for engineering graduate schemes involves effectively communicating your growth potential, unique personality, and deep-seated interest in your field.

It’s not just about showcasing academic skills and engineering knowledge. Stand out creatively and give recruiters the right soundbites to justify putting you through to the next stage.

To get ready for interviews, make sure to check out Engineering Job Interview Tips for Students & Recent Graduates and Guide to Engineering Assessment Centres