engineer cover letter for job

Engineering Cover Letter Example (W/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

The days you solved puzzles and tinkered with gadgets are long gone.

You've always had a knack for engineering, and now you’re turning your passion into a career.

But as you’re applying for your next gig, you’re having trouble writing your engineering cover letter.

No worries. 

Whether you’re an entry-level engineer who doesn’t know the basics of writing cover letters or a seasoned professional who’s not good at putting their professional experience into words, we’ve got your back. 

In this article, we're going to guide you through the process of creating a perfect engineering cover letter, one step at a time.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• Professional Engineering Cover Letter Example
• 5 Simple Steps to Craft an Impressive Engineering Cover Letter
• 3 Essential Engineering Cover Letter Tips 

Let’s dive in!

Engineering Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Engineering Cover Letter

You've seen what a great cover letter looks like, and now it's time to create your own . 

It's as simple as the following steps, starting with: 

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Start your engineer cover letter with your contact information, just like you would on your resume . Here's what you should include:

• Full Name: Place your complete name at the top of the page.
• Job Title: List the exact job title required by the specific engineering position you're applying for (e.g. “Electrical Engineer”). Clarity here helps streamline the hiring process.
• Email Address: Opt for a professional and straightforward email address, typically a combination of your first and last name.
• Phone Number: Ensure your phone number is accurate, including the dialing code if applying for positions abroad.
• Location: Mention your city and state or country. If you're open to remote work or relocating, make that clear on your engineering resume.
• Relevant Links (optional): Include any pertinent websites or social media profiles, such as LinkedIn.

Next, it's time to provide the hiring manager's information:

• Company Name: Specify the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name: Whenever possible, identify the hiring manager for the department you're interested in. Research the job ad, the company's website, or LinkedIn for this information.
• Hiring Manager's Title: If you find that the hiring manager for this specific job ad holds a department head role, use that title instead of just "Hiring Manager."
• Location: Include the city and state or country, particularly for globally operating companies. You can also add the company's street address for precision.
• Email Address (optional): If available, include the hiring manager's email address.
• Date of Writing (optional): Consider adding the date you composed your cover letter for that extra touch of professionalism.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've included all the necessary contact information in your engineer cover letter, it's crucial to address it to the right person. 

For starters, avoid the generic and dated "To Whom It May Concern."

Giving some thought to how you address the cover letter can make a positive impression on the hiring manager. Here's how to do it:

Start by doing some research. Check the job posting, the company's website, or their LinkedIn profiles to identify the hiring manager for the department you're interested in. This way, you can find their name and email address.

Next, address them formally. Consider using "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, you can simply use their full name. For example:

• Dear Mr. Rodriguez,
• Dear Taylor Anderson,

In cases where you can't find specific information about the hiring manager or the head of the engineering department, you can address your letter to the department or the company in general:

• Dear Engineering Department,
• Dear Engineering Hiring Team,
• Dear Human Resources Recruitment Team,
• Dear Head of Engineering Services,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers typically spend around seven seconds reviewing a candidate's application before deciding whether to continue reading it. This means your opening paragraph is your chance to grab the hiring manager’s attention and get them to read your cover letter.

Begin by introducing yourself and expressing your genuine interest in the role. Demonstrating your passion for the engineering field or the specific job can capture the hiring manager's attention.

Researching the company is also essential. The more you learn about the employer, the better you can talk about how you’d fit with the company culture. This conveys to the hiring manager that your application is not random; you're genuinely enthusiastic about this particular position.

Depending on your experience level, you can also start your cover letter by highlighting a significant achievement or showcasing the skills that make you an ideal fit for the role. 

However, keep this paragraph concise to ignite the hiring manager's curiosity and encourage them to explore the details in your cover letter further.

Check out our other cover letter examples to write an inspired opening paragraph. 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

You’re meant to use the body of your cover letter to talk in detail about why you are the perfect candidate for the position. 

The key here is to avoid rehashing your engineering resume . This is where you can talk in more detail about skills and achievements you didn’t have space for on your resume. 

Your mission is to persuade the hiring manager that you are the standout choice among a sea of applicants. To achieve this, you can highlight a couple of your most notable engineering achievements, and elaborate on the skills that helped you and the positive results your work has had.

Customizing your cover letter to align with the job posting is essential. Spotlight the specific skills the company is seeking and articulate how you can make valuable contributions to their team. For instance, if you're aiming for a position in a tech-focused engineering firm, emphasize your tech-related proficiencies rather than unrelated experiences.

Demonstrating your familiarity with the company, its business model, or its industry can be a tremendous asset. If you possess knowledge of the company's products or services, ensure it's mentioned in your cover letter to convey your alignment with their mission and corporate culture.

To keep this important cover letter part perfect, avoid these common cover letter mistakes at all costs. 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Concluding your cover letter professionally is just as important as starting on the right note.

Your goal is to leave a positive, lasting impression on the hiring manager and reinforce their confidence in your suitability for the engineering role.

In the conclusion, confidently reiterate why you are an excellent fit for the engineer position or highlight the skills that you believe distinguish you from other applicants.

Then, you can optionally include a call to action. Encouraging the hiring manager to take the next step, such as arranging a conversation to explore your application further, can enhance your chances of securing an interview.

Last but not least, conclude with a signature line. Choose something personal but still professional, followed by your full name. Here's an example:

Please don’t hesitate to contact me using the provided email or phone number to schedule a discussion. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to delve deeper into my application at your earliest convenience.

Best wishes,

If you feel that "Best wishes" is overused, consider these alternative sign-off options:

• Kind regards,
• Respectfully yours,
• Thank you for your consideration,

Simply choose the sign-off that aligns with your style and the tone of your engineering cover letter.

3 Essential Engineering Cover Letter Tips

You've covered the fundamentals, and now it's time to elevate your engineering cover letter with some cover letter tips . 

Here are our top three: 

#1. Match Your Resume

If you're truly committed to landing the gig, your job application needs to look as good as it reads.

Make certain that the formatting and layout of your engineering cover letter align seamlessly with your resume. This will not only show off your sense of professionalism but also highlight your attention to detail. 

Ensure that your text and contact information are neatly arranged on the page, maintain uniform font styles and sizes, and set the right margins and line spacing to keep your cover letter on a single page.

This can set you apart from other candidates and underscore your genuine dedication to the position.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

As an engineer, you likely have better things to do than create a matching cover letter and resume.

There’s a solution to this.  

Try out our free resume templates to create the perfect engineering resume.

Then, pick a cover letter template that matches it visually to save time and effort.

Our templates are created in collaboration with hiring managers around the world, which means they hit industry standards right on the mark. You save time and get a matching cover letter for your resume that looks absolutely professional. Sweet deal, isn’t it?

#2. Emphasize Your Achievements

Highlighting your achievements in your engineering cover letter is a smart move. 

It's not just about listing them, though; it's about showing how they make you the ideal candidate for the job. This helps hiring managers see the value you can bring to their team. 

So, be sure to integrate your achievements seamlessly into your cover letter, connecting them to the role you're pursuing. This way, you'll leave a lasting impression of your capabilities.

#3. Keep It Relevant

In your engineering cover letter, being concise is key. 

It's not about overwhelming the hiring manager with lengthy paragraphs; it's about providing relevant information efficiently. Employers appreciate cover letters that get to the point and directly address the qualifications and skills that make you a great fit for the job. 

So, keep it relevant, and you'll make a strong and lasting impression.

Key Takeaways

Here you go!

Now, you're all set to craft the ideal engineering cover letter and secure that role you've been eyeing.

For clarity, let's revisit the key takeaways:

• Ensuring your engineering cover letter aligns with your resume provides a cohesive, professional appearance. Consider using a resume and cover letter builder for the seamless creation of both documents.
• Organize your cover letter with a captivating opening, followed by detailed elaboration. Utilize the main section to emphasize your engineering skills, past projects, and why you're the perfect fit for the role.
• Review the job listing for specific engineering skills and relevant keywords. By aligning with the employer's expectations, you'll stand out and make a lasting impression.
• Never underestimate the importance of proofreading. A small oversight might jeopardize your chance, so double-check for errors before submission.

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Engineering Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write an Engineering Cover Letter

A great engineering cover letter can help differentiate you from other candidates during the job hunt. Whether you’re a mechanical, manufacturing, or software engineer, it’s important to emphasize aspects of your technical expertise that match the needs of the organization you’re applying to. This guide features examples and expert tips to help translate your engineering career into an accomplishment-driven cover letter.

Engineering Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Engineering Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Tyrone Jackson  Manufacturing Engineer | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Seattle, WA 12345 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Matthew Johnson Senior Hiring Manager UW Medicine (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Johnson:

I’m reaching out to apply for the manufacturing engineer position with Invitae. During my time with Myriad Genetics, I spearheaded process improvement initiatives to reduce product defects by 16% and lower manufacturing costs by 25%. I can achieve similar success in an engineering role at your organization.

With three years of experience improving productivity and product quality, I am attracted to Invitae’s reputation for improving health care using perfectly-engineered medical products. My expertise in quality control and lean manufacturing would be an asset to your team based on my career achievements:

• Spearheaded a machine redesign project to increase output by 43% and led process improvement initiatives to enhance quality control and reduce manufacturing costs by $150,000 per year
• Performed investigations and root cause analysis of product defects and issues related to manufacturing processes, customer usage, and design flaws
• Utilized Lean Manufacturing methods to reduce cycle time by 39%

I’d like to set up an interview to discuss how my expertise in product manufacturing can further Invitae’s goal to enable outstanding medical care for countless patients worldwide. Please feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Tyrone Jackson

Melissa Anderson Mechanical Engineer | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | San Francisco, CA 12345 | LinkedIn

Lori Taylor Senior Hiring Manager Toyota (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Taylor:

I’m interested in applying for the senior mechanical engineer position with Toyota. As you can see from my attached resume, I have over six years of experience managing new vehicle engineering from initial concept to production stages. During my time with General Motors, I contributed to the development of three new car models. My engineering background would be an asset to your team.

Toyota’s commitment to quality management and vehicle safety draws me to apply for this opportunity. As a mechanical engineer, I’m passionate about identifying creative solutions to continually refine product quality. I can help your company achieve both short and long-term manufacturing goals based on my previous successes:

• Developed and processed plans for a range of smart vehicle upgrades and alterations in collaboration with cross-functional teams in both the U.S. and Japan
• Supported the development and production of three new vehicles: the Spark 2018, the Cadillac 2019, and the Hummer EV
• Coordinated with engineering teams to develop a new project budget system and improve manufacturing processes, which reduced new vehicle development costs by 10%

I hope to speak with you further about how my background in vehicle engineering can enhance Toyota’s product development efforts. Feel free to contact me at your convenience with any additional questions you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Melissa Anderson

John Bergsen Engineering Manager | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Philadelphia, PA 12345 | LinkedIn

Hideo Araki Senior Hiring Manager Elevation Solar (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Araki:

I’m reaching out to apply for the engineering manager position with Elevation Solar. During my time with Cadence Energy Inc., I led a 50-person engineering team to develop advanced battery products with integrated solar power capabilities. My expertise in cross-functional leadership and research and development (R&D) will allow me to provide valuable contributions to your organization.

Elevation Solar’s reputation as a global leader in alternative energy solutions is what draws me to apply for this opportunity. With over 10 years of experience in engineering management, I can achieve results for your company based on my proven track record of success:

• Led the engineering organization of an energy technology company specializing in the delivery of advanced batteries with integrated solar power capabilities
• Deliver technical leadership for new product development initiatives, including identifying opportunities to maximize production output and reduce costs by $200,000 per year
• Support the integration of solar power capabilities in coordination with R&D teams, resulting in a 300% sales increase within one year of product launch

I would like to schedule an interview to provide more insights regarding how my management experience within the energy space would be an asset to your organization. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

John Bergsen

To write a great engineering cover letter that stands out in today’s competitive job market, carefully align your content with the job description. This is true no matter what type of engineering role you’re pursuing, as it applies to every industry. By featuring achievements and technical skills that match the needs of individual employers, your chances of landing the interview are sure to increase drastically. Below, we’ll walk you through each step of building your engineering cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your engineering cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” Salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern” are generally considered outdated, as this language lacks a personal touch.

2. Introduction

Start your engineering cover letter with a powerful opening paragraph to draw the hiring manager in and entice them to read further. Feature your years of engineering experience and one notable achievement that demonstrates your industry expertise. Select an accomplishment that communicates your advanced industry knowledge and technical expertise.

For example, take a look at the candidate below. This engineering manager demonstrates their leadership and technical capabilities simultaneously. By establishing the size of the team and the innovative products they developed, the hiring manager can immediately gain a clear understanding of the candidate’s background and why they’re uniquely qualified for the position.

I’m reaching out to apply for the engineering manager position with Elevation Solar. During my time with Cadence Energy Inc., I led a 50-person engineering team to develop advanced battery products with integrated solar power capabilities. My expertise in cross-functional leadership and R&D will allow me to provide valuable contributions to your organization.

3. Body paragraphs

The body paragraphs serve as the center of your engineering cover letter. Use this as an opportunity to describe your career achievements and technical qualifications in more detail. Start by mentioning something specific about the company’s products or reputation and why this draws you to apply for the position. The engineering field is broad, so emphasize aspects of your technical background that align with the role you’re applying for.

In the example below, this candidate paints a captivating picture of their engineering career. Rather than simply stating that they’ve helped develop new vehicles, they include the specific models. They also highlight their experience collaborating with global teams, a unique selling point hiring managers will take note of. Providing these types of insights is a great way to establish your credibility as an engineering expert and differentiate yourself from the competition.

4. Engineering skills and qualifications

It’s unnecessary to include a long list of skills on your engineering cover letter, as this information should already be featured on your resume. That said, it’s important to show potential employers how you’ve utilized your technical skills in fast-paced engineering environments throughout your career. Below, you’ll find a list of potential skills to consider adding to your engineering cover letter:

5. Closing section

The conclusion of your engineering cover letter should include a call to action inviting the hiring manager to schedule an interview. Use this final opportunity to convey how your unique engineering background can help the organization continue to excel. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence.

Engineering Cover Letter Tips

1. quantify your engineering achievements.

Establish a sense of scope for your achievements by integrating hard numbers, metrics, and monetary figures into your cover letter. This demonstrates the positive impact of your contributions and can help draw the reader’s eye. For example, if your background is in manufacturing engineering, you might mention how you applied Lean principles to reduce production costs or enhance throughput.

2. Align your cover letter with the job description

As you build your cover letter, pay close attention to the job requirements listed in the posting. Incorporating these qualifications and skill sets immediately demonstrates that you have the necessary experience to succeed in the role. For instance, say you were applying for a mechanical engineering position centered on product development. In this case, you might display how you developed and executed test plans to reduce product defects and improve quality control.

3. Feature your leadership capabilities

Although your engineering expertise should always be at the forefront of your cover letter, hiring managers also value candidates with strong leadership skills. As an engineer, you’ll often be collaborating with cross-functional groups to execute projects, so it’s important to highlight this aspect of your experience using tangible examples from your career.

Engineering Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i submit an engineering cover letter -.

The vast majority of engineering jobs likely won’t require a cover letter, but including one can help bolster the strength of your application. This allows you to convey why you’re interested in joining this particular company and provide more insights into who you are as a professional. Customizing your cover letter towards individual applications also sends a clear message that you’re genuinely interested in the opportunity.

Should I use artificial intelligence to write my cover letter? -

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools can help to establish a starting point for your cover letter, but it’s best to never use it to write your entire document. Despite the advancements in AI and machine learning, these types of tools can never tell your story the way you can. If you do utilize AI, take the time to infuse your voice into the cover letter.

How long should my cover letter be? -

It’s normally best to keep your cover letter concise and focused, limited to no more than three or four paragraphs. Including too much information runs the risk of overwhelming the reader and detracting from your most impressive and relevant qualifications. The details you share on your cover letter and resume are meant to serve as talking points during the interview, so you’ll have the opportunity to elaborate further if you advance in the hiring process.

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Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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6 Engineering Cover Letter Examples

Engineers excel at designing and building structures that withstand pressure, are functional, and stand the test of time. Similarly, your cover letter must be meticulously constructed to withstand the scrutiny of hiring managers, effectively communicate your skills, and leave a lasting impression. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Engineers, ensuring your application is as robust and impressive as the projects you engineer.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start an Engineering cover letter is by addressing the hiring manager directly, if possible. Then, introduce yourself and state the specific engineering position you're applying for. Make sure to mention where you found the job listing. Next, write a compelling opening line that highlights your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and briefly mention your most relevant qualifications or achievements. This will grab the reader's attention and show them you're a serious, qualified candidate. Remember, the goal is to make a strong first impression and encourage the reader to continue reading your cover letter.

Engineers should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the position and their belief in their ability to contribute positively to the company. They should reiterate their key skills and experiences that make them a good fit for the job. It's also important to express gratitude for the reader's time and consideration. For example: "I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of skills and experience to your esteemed company and am confident that I can contribute significantly to your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my candidacy further." Remember to end with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. It's also a good idea to include your contact information below your name, even if it's also at the top of the letter.

An Engineering cover letter should ideally be about one page long. This length is sufficient to succinctly present your qualifications, experience, and interest in the position without overwhelming the reader. It's important to remember that hiring managers often have numerous applications to review, so keeping your cover letter concise and to the point can increase the chances of it being read in its entirety. Be sure to focus on key achievements and skills that are directly relevant to the engineering role you're applying for.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as an engineer can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Here's how you can approach it: 1. Start with a Strong Introduction: Begin your cover letter by introducing yourself and stating the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting and if you were referred by someone. 2. Highlight Your Education: If you're a recent graduate or still in school, your education is your strongest asset. Highlight relevant courses, projects, or research you've done that align with the job description. This can demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field. 3. Showcase Transferable Skills: Even if you don't have direct engineering experience, you likely have transferable skills that can be applied to the role. These could include problem-solving, analytical thinking, teamwork, or technical skills like proficiency in certain software or tools. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in past roles or projects. 4. Discuss Relevant Experiences: If you've done internships, co-op placements, or even extracurricular activities related to engineering, be sure to mention them. Discuss what you learned and how it can be applied to the job you're applying for. 5. Show Enthusiasm and Passion: Employers want to hire people who are passionate about their field. Show your enthusiasm for engineering and the company you're applying to. Research the company and mention specific projects or initiatives that excite you. 6. Close with a Strong Conclusion: In your conclusion, reiterate your interest in the role and the company. Mention your eagerness to contribute and learn. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your hope for further discussion. Remember, your cover letter should be tailored to each job you apply for. Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences align with the requirements.

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Engineering cover letter example

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Cover letter greeting / salutation, cover letter introduction, cover letter middle paragraphs, how to end an engineering cover letter.

On May 25, 1961, President John F. Kennedy famously stated the goal of “landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the Earth” before the end of the decade. It was perhaps the greatest engineering challenge in history. 

And in fact, the number of scientists and engineers employed by NASA and its contractors grew from 18,400 in 1961 to 65,065 in 1968, by which time they accounted for nearly 40% of all NASA employment . That surge in engineering talent was directly responsible for the successful Apollo 11 mission that landed two men on the moon on July 20, 1969, and returned them to Earth four days later. 

Engineers are consummate experts at answering the question “how.” From building the pyramids of Egypt to the Golden Gate Bridge to the world’s tallest skyscrapers, engineers are the “nuts and bolts” behind our most visionary projects, as well as our most mundane. If water comes out of your faucet and your toilet flushes, you can thank engineers for that as well.

The word “engineer” describes a broad category of occupations dedicated to designing and building machines, structures, public works and much more. Here is one list of the main types of engineers and their median annual pay, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

OCCUPATION MEDIAN PAY (2020)

Source:  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/home.htm

The world will always need engineers, and the job outlook for most types of engineering is good, as is the pay. 

For the categories mentioned in the box above, the median annual pay in the U.S. in 2020 ranged from $80,720 for agricultural engineers to $137,720 for petroleum engineers. Employment in all architecture and engineering occupations was expected to grow 4% from 2018 to 2028. 

So how do you find the job that’s right for you in your field? Your starting place is an outstanding resume and cover letter that are well written and correctly formatted. Resume.io has prepared several examples of good resumes in various fields of engineering, and we’ve written detailed guides to how to prepare a resume for agricultural, civil, electrical, facilities, health and safety, mechanical, process and research engineers . Our general resume-writing guide is a great place to start.

But that’s only half the job. The second part of the formula is to write a provocative cover letter that makes a personal appeal to a hiring manager. In this guide, along with the corresponding engineering cover letter examples, you will learn how to write a great letter by exploring these topics:

• Why a cover letter is an essential part of a job application
• How a cover letter should be organized, structured and formatted
• Psychology, tips and tactics for writing a standout cover letter
• Common cover letter mistakes and how to avoid them.

Your cover letter should be a one-page document of up to 400 words that makes a persuasive case that you would be an excellent job candidate. While your resume will cover much of the crucial ground — employment and education history, skills and other qualifications — the value of a cover letter is that it gets a bit more personal. Normally a resume doesn’t even contain the word “I,” nor is it addressed to anyone.

But a cover letter is your way of establishing a personal connection to a hiring manager. It’s a format that gives you much broader leeway to express your personality, passions and skills. It also supplements your resume by allowing you to expand on your experience, achievements and qualifications in your own words.

Although some employers prefer to receive resumes only, you should always include a cover letter example unless you’re specifically asked not to. Done right, a cover letter can only increase your chances of getting a job. And in fact, employer surveys have found that the failure to include a cover letter is among the top reason resumes are rejected.

Best format for an engineering cover letter example

It often helps to present your arguments and tell your story when there is a logical cover letter format.

The format of an engineering cover letter should contain the following elements:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting / salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and sign-off).

Dear Mr. Kristianson, Having contributed to the design and manufacture of 35+ devices that have been used by millions of patients over the past decade, Engineering News recently voted me one of the top five mechanical engineers in the medical devices field. Experience in bringing together clinically cutting-edge system architectures, materials and components stems from a deep passion for research and development. My design and verification process formed the blueprint for my consultancy work and I believe that I may be in a position to tweak certain aspects of your already stellar operation. I am a proficient user of Boldworks and enclose a portfolio of solutions that I have incorporated in my previous designs. There are a number of patents to my name and one particular solution for ingress protection in a Class III medical device won “innovation of the year” at the NaaTech awards. I take a pride in the quality of my design review process with top-quality 3D renderings, models and animations bringing the reality and practicality of the design to life. An inflation system for an intragastric balloon became the market leader within 18 months and I have a deep knowledge of drug delivery systems and insulin pump solutions – particular specializations for which you are rightfully well-known. Having spent the past three years working on a consultancy basis (with 12 product designs driving over $15m in sales), I am looking forward to joining a company that prides themselves on broader employee development. When you work alongside talented colleagues, your designs take on a new dimension. I am excited at the prospect of an interview to find out what projects you have in the pipeline and how I might play a part in your future success. Yours sincerely, Leslie Philoberto

The comprehensive cover letter guide offers more general advice about how to create your cover letters, but below you will find specific advice on how to maximize the effectiveness of each specific letter paragraph and section.

This cover letter example will give you a start on writing your own great engineering letter. 

If you want more ideas before you get started, click over to one of our other specific engineering examples:

• Network Engineer cover letter sample
• Mechanical Engineer cover letter sample
• Electrical Engineer cover letter sample
• Civil Engineer cover letter sample
• Systems Engineer cover letter sample
• Quality Assurance Engineer cover letter sample

This is the section at the very top of your letter that contains your name, address, phone number and email. Its purpose is to give employers your contact info so they can get back to you. It also prevents your letter from becoming a “nameless” piece of paper lost in a pile.

Your name should generally be the first and largest element on the page, since the product you are selling is yourself. This displays your confidence and helps brand your name into your reader’s mind. 

Your header should have an eye-pleasing design that uses an appropriate amount of white space. Everything that follows will be solid blocks of black text, but the header gives you a chance to incorporate some creative design, possibly including a photo and some color.

Align document styles

Your resume and cover letter should use the same fonts, font sizes and formatting styles, giving them a matching look that makes it obvious they come from the same person. The header on both the resume and the cover letter, in fact, should usually be identical.

Matching document styles give you a “visual brand” and show your attention to detail and your understanding of the importance of aesthetics.

The aim of the cover letter header: Make it easy for hiring managers to contact you by keeping it simple. Save your flourishes for the body of your letter.

“Dear Mr. (or Ms.) Xxxxxxxx” is the time-honored greeting (also known as a salutation ) in any business letter. Traditional style for business letters calls for ending the salutation with a colon rather than a comma, although this practice is not as widespread today as it used to be.

It’s almost always best to address your letter to an individual by name. People like to read their own names, and it shows your attention to detail if you’ve bothered to find out who is the appropriate person to write to. Also, it’s a personal touch that sets up the expectation of a personal reply. You’ll notice that our cover letter examples all use this format.

If you’re replying to a job listing that doesn’t name the hiring manager, it’s worth doing some research (or simply making a phone call) to find out who that person is. But if you get the sense that the hiring manager prefers to remain anonymous, don’t push it. It’s also acceptable to address your letter to an appropriate department or team within the company.

The aim of letter greeting / salutation: Starting the cover letter off on a formal footing is important for an engineer, so keep it professional.

Dear Mr. Kristianson,

Open your letter with a bang — a paragraph of two or three sentences that makes your reader sit up, take note and say, “This sounds promising.” 

Your introduction should both state your job objective and also offer a brief preview of the experience and qualifications that would make you a great hire. Use language that is bold and energetic, never bland or boring, in a tone that is confident yet not arrogant. 

The aim of the cover letter intro: Grab their attention with an enticing message that makes them want to read on.

Having contributed to the design and manufacture of 35+ devices that have been used by millions of patients over the past decade, Engineering News recently voted me one of the top five mechanical engineers in the medical devices field.

The central three or four paragraphs of your letter should flesh out your work experience and other qualifications, leaving little room for doubt that you are an outstanding candidate for the job. 

Here you should not just report where you’ve worked, but highlight your specific achievements. Use facts and figure wherever possible, and tell stories about how you faced and surmounted tough engineering challenges. 

Consider employing the STAR method — “Situation, Task, Action, Result” — to describe the problem you faced, your strategy for addressing it and the positive result you achieved.

You can also use the body of your letter to mention your education, certifications and special skills that qualify you for the job. More broadly, you can discuss the passions that drive you and the professional qualities that make you a great engineer.

Experience in bringing together clinically cutting-edge system architectures, materials and components stems from a deep passion for research and development. My design and verification process formed the blueprint for my consultancy work and I believe that I may be in a position to tweak certain aspects of your already stellar operation. I am a proficient user of Boldworks and enclose a portfolio of solutions that I have incorporated in my previous designs. There are a number of patents to my name and one particular solution for ingress protection in a Class III medical device won “innovation of the year” at the NaaTech awards. I take a pride in the quality of my design review process with top-quality 3D renderings, models and animations bringing the reality and practicality of the design to life. An inflation system for an intragastric balloon became the market leader within 18 months and I have a deep knowledge of drug delivery systems and insulin pump solutions – particular specializations for which you are rightfully well-known. Having spent the past three years working on a consultancy basis (with 12 product designs driving over $15m in sales), I am looking forward to joining a company that prides themselves on broader employee development. When you work alongside talented colleagues, your designs take on a new dimension.

The aim of the body of your cover letter: Share how you go about solving difficult problems or envision more efficient products and processes. This tells prospective employers how you will help them. 

The conclusion should be both a summary and a call to action. Provide a compelling final statement on your qualifications, and suggest that some action be taken as a result. 

You want to imprint the idea in your correspondent’s mind that they should act on your letter in some way — call you in for an interview, agree to talk on the phone or at the very least send you a written reply. The “call to action” is common to most cover letter examples for a reason.

Keep your tone confident, energetic and optimistic, bearing in mind that you are not “entitled” to a job but planting the thought that you would be a great asset for this company.

Close with a simple “ Sincerely ” or the equivalent, followed by your name. An actual signature is usually not expected unless you’re sending a printed copy of your letter.

The concluding sentence of resume.io's cover letter sample, clearly suggests a path forward and shows that the writer wants to contribute to the company.

I am excited at the prospect of an interview to find out what projects you have in the pipeline and how I might play a part in your future success. Yours sincerely, Leslie Philoberto

The aim of this part: Finish by telling your future employer why they should employ you and justify your request for an interview.

Engineering cover letter with no experience

All this advice is excellent (if we say so ourselves) for job-hunters with experience. But when cover letter examples are all geared for people already in the engineering world, what do you say that will wow those recruiters?

First, remember that engineers are in demand. Focus on your academic achievements, the projects you completed in school and your drive and desire to be a great engineer. 

The psychology behind an engineering cover letter

Psychologists say we process information with a mix of reason and emotion, with our hearts as well as our heads. 

You appeal to the rational side of the mind when you outline your relevant job experience and skills. But don’t overlook the value of emotional language that appeals to human feelings. For example, if you close by saying, “I am excited about this opportunity and would be delighted to meet with you in the near future,” it sends an emotional signal that you are a human being and not a cold fish.

Study the company you’re targeting and gain an understanding of its needs and challenges. Your goal is not to convince your correspondent that you deserve a job, but to make a persuasive case that you provide value that can make this company stronger. Your letter should be about how you can help solve the firm’s problems, not how it can help solve yours.

Put yourself in the shoes of the person you’re writing to and imagine how your letter will be received. Did you hit the right notes, include the necessary content, and set the right tone? If you were the hiring manager and you had dozens of cover letters on your desk, would this one stand out? Does your letter sound like it was written by someone the employer would want to work with?

Remember that every cover letter should be uniquely targeted to address the needs of a specific company. Always endeavor to mention what you have learned about this company and its needs, leaving no doubt that this is NOT a generic cover letter that you’re sending to a dozen other employers.

How to format your letter correctly

In your diligence to make your letter sound right, don’t underestimate the importance of how it looks. And above all, beware of sending it in a file format that your recipient can’t even open.

• Use one-inch margins on both sides, top and bottom. Choose a modern, commonly used font that’s easy to read, and use a font size of 10 to 12 points. Align your paragraphs left (not justified margin to margin), and insert a space between them.
• Keep your paragraphs a reasonable length to avoid big blocks of black text. Look at the text you’re reading right now — after every two to four sentences, there’s a return that allows you to take a breath, that gives your eyes a break. Imagine if this guide were written in one continuous paragraph of wall-to-wall text. You probably wouldn’t still be reading.
• When you think you’re finished with your letter, take a look at the entire page without reading it. Is it pleasing to the eye? Does it include enough white space? Is it visually balanced, or is it too dense, too sparse or too top-heavy?
• Your first draft of your letter will probably be too long. It’s actually easier to write a two-page letter than a one-page letter. It’s also tempting to cram a wordy letter onto one page by reducing font size or margins, or by turning two short paragraphs into one long one.
• Resist these urges and focus on trimming the fat from your copy. Less is more.

Finally, you can get all of this right and still make the worst mistake possible by saving your file in a format that your recipient can’t even open. You may create the perfect cover letter in InDesign on your MacBook Pro, but on the recipient’s PC this may be an unrecognizable file type. Or it may open in an application that totally destroys all your formatting and turns the text into garble.

This is why we recommend sending both cover letters and resumes as PDFs, which preserve all your formatting so that your letter will look the same on any computer. (A few employers, however, prefer a Word file over a PDF, and you should obviously follow the employer’s preferences.)

You can sidestep all of these flaws by using a professionally designed cover letter template from resume.io. We’ve taken care of all these issues for you so that you can focus on the content and not worry about the format.

Basic mistakes in an engineering application letter (and how to avoid them)

Engineers, like everyone else, sometimes make mistakes. But as you prepare your cover letter, please don’t make these:

• Typos, misspellings and bad English are often cited by employers as the most common reason job applications are rejected. If the written word is not among your long suits, find an editor to proofread and revise your letter.
• Generic, non-customized letters that could have been written to anybody are another common mistake. A cover letter sample is only a starting point. Every cover letter you write should be uniquely targeted to a specific employer.
• Clichés, PR-speak and fluffy wording, as opposed to original and vigorous writing, make you look lazy and disingenuous. Challenge yourself to use language that your correspondent has never read before.
• Non-professional info that is irrelevant to your occupation suggests a lack of focus and an inflated sense of self-importance.
• Errors in formatting, fonts and design betray a lack of attention to detail that is the exact opposite of what employers are looking for in an engineer.

Key takeaways

To review some of the primary points discussed here:

• Engineering is a broad, in-demand and high-paying field that specializes in answering the question “How?” And engineers seeking a job must focus on the “how” of writing an irresistible resume and cover letter.
• A cover letter is a critical companion to a resume because it establishes a personal connection with a hiring manager, going beyond the just-the-facts summary of a resume.
• Engineers are no strangers to the importance of structure, and those seeking employment must adhere to the proper structure and contents of a cover letter.
• Looks matter, and cover letters must be properly designed and formatted.
• Mistakes to avoid include errors in English usage, lazy writing and irrelevant content.

Resume.io offers expertise in resume and cover letter design and content, and proven, occupation-specific templates and an easy-to-use builder tool to maximize your chances of a positive response.

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Engineering Cover Letter Example

Create the perfect first impression for an Engineering job by getting your cover letter in gear. Take a look over our example Engineering cover letter below to find out how you can optimize your application to perfection.

Engineering Cover Letter

You’ve found it. A job opening that is looking for an engineer. It comes with great benefits, hours, the whole package.

You’ve used a  resume template  to write your resume, so you know your job application is on point so far.

There is just one problem,  the job posting asks for a cover letter  along with the rest of your application.

In theory, it doesn’t take too long to create an engineering cover letter, but you want to  do it the right way , so let’s not rush it.

If you write a run-of-the-mill cover letter, it will end up in the rejection pile before the hiring manager even gets halfway through reading it. You’ll want to ensure your cover letter stands out and  grabs the employer’s attention right away .

Luckily, there is a tested method to create a cover letter that  will help you stand out  from the rest of the applicants.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to:

• Write a cover letter if you have work experience Write a cover letter if you have no work experience Write your cover letter if you have an employment gap

You’ll also get some useful  cover letter  tips for engineering, and be able to see expertly-written engineering cover letter samples.

To familiarize yourself with what a good cover should look like, you can review this cover letter sample below, along with a resume example.

Hiring Manager’s name

Company name

Company address

Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. [Hiring Manager Name]

I’m very excited to be applying for the [POSITION] at [COMPANY]. As an Electrical Engineer with more than 4 years of experience working in component design and manufacture for production lines, I am confident I can bring the attention-to-detail and professional oversight necessary to achieve great results.

During my professional work as an Electrical Engineer so far, I have become familiar with formulating solutions to complex problems in circuit board design and power management, as well as preventing component malfunctions in the production line process. In fact, during my last year with [CURRENT COMPANY], my work helped to decrease production downtime by 23%.

Additionally, I am well versed in managing large scale projects, overseeing more than 20 employees, and creating a productive and safe working environment. Furthermore, I bring excellent communication skills, experience in training staff, and first-class accuracy with regards to diagnostics.

I was initially compelled to apply for this position as it focuses on industrial production. This is a field with which I am very familiar and am eager to further progress by taking on a position with more responsibility. However, I also feel that [COMPANY]’s devotion to high standards compliments my own well.

I have attached my resume which details my full career experience and training credentials. I hope that we can meet in person in the near future to discuss the opportunity and how I can help advance the goals of [COMPANY].

Please feel free to contact me via [PHONE NUMBER] between 5 pm and 8 pm any day of the week. I am also available at any time via [EMAIL ADDRESS].

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Name

Address Phone number Email address

In addition to these samples, you can use a cover letter or  resume builder  to make the entire writing process go much smoother.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Engineering with Experience

Having experience can help you a lot when you’re writing your cover letter. However, including any of your  prior work experience is only half the battle .

Remember, your cover letter is not supposed to be exactly like a resume.

You want to  show you are motivated and going to be valuable  to the company you want to work for.

If you don’t start and end your cover letter well, there’s a good chance the hiring manager will not continue with your job application.

So getting your engineering cover letter right is essential!

So how do you  start your letter ?

Let’s take a look at the correct way and the wrong way.

I am an engineer with 5 years of experience. I am writing this letter as part of my application for the engineering vacancy at your company.

This is a very generic opening that won’t grab the manager’s attention at all. It also says very little about you except that you have some experience.

After 5 years of being a team lead that increased productivity at x company by 25%, the engineering vacancy at x company jumped out at me and seems like the perfect opportunity to continue improving and applying my skills.

This is a much better example as it shows an achievement, your experience, and your motivation to do well and even improve.

This opening paragraph should set up the rest of your letter to state the skills you have and  your motivation for working at the new company .

To end your letter , make sure you review the company’s needs and how your experience and skills meet those needs.

Remember to  keep it personal  as well.

How to Write a Cover Letter with an Employment Gap

When looking at cover letter and  resume examples  for inspiration, you may have a tough time figuring out what to include if you’ve had a gap in your employment history.

With a  gap in your employment history , you may think you have no chance of landing the job.

However, that doesn’t necessarily need to be the case.

There are plenty of  good reasons someone did not work  for a certain amount of time.

So what are some things you should include in your cover letter if you were out of work for an extended period?

• Be honest: A hiring manager will probably find out about it and may come to the wrong conclusion. Briefly explain why you weren’t or couldn’t be working.
• Don’t worry about every single gap: If it’s a short amount of time, or it was a long time ago, you probably don’t need to mention it.

When it comes time to interview, you should also  be prepared to answer any question  related to your gap in employment.

You could even turn your gap into a positive. You can briefly mention any  relevant skills  you learned in your cover letter or resume.

However, remember to stick to the correct cover letter and  resume format  when creating your documents.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Engineering with No Experience

One thing a lot of applicants read that stops them from even applying, is when the posting wants someone with job experience.

If you see that and don’t have any engineering experience,  don’t delete your application .

Even with no engineering experience, you can create a cover letter that shows  how your qualities match the vacancy  and that you are a fantastic fit for the available position.

So what’s  the secret ?

What you should do is, fully  understand what the company needs . That means analyzing what they want from their employees and what the goals of the company are.

Once you do that,  use your education and any internship experience  to demonstrate that you are a good fit.

In your cover letter, make sure to give  examples of your personality  and internship or freelancing experience and touch on:

• Company needs
• Relevant achievements
• Your valuable skills

By including those 3 points, it will make the hiring manager feel you know what you’re doing.

You may not be as experienced as other applicants, but you can  show you fill the company’s needs  and be a valuable employee.

When writing the motivation statement, you have the opportunity to convince the employer you’re ready to learn and will work harder than the rest of the applicants.

Engineer Cover Letter Tips and Advice

Engineering jobs are technical and specific in nature. The field of engineering is very wide and can range through  civil , electrical, and  mechanical  disciplines amongst others. It’s therefore critical that you  tailor your letter as much as possible to the type of job on offer  and to communicate your specific experience.

Double-check everything before you hit send on your application. One small mistake can absolutely scupper your chances of getting the job.

It’s important to throw in some examples of where your  efforts have yielded results.  A few carefully chosen statistics such as any percentile improvements in efficiency you helped achieve, production increases or cost savings that occurred on your watch will all help to do this.

Also, remember that Engineering is a career that is highly regulated and often requires a state license. Because of this, it is highly worth mentioning the status of your  PE (Professional Engineering)  license, especially if the job description specifies it.

Finally, don’t forget to proof everything once done  and to be mindful of the amount of industry-focused keywords you use in your letter. The level of complexity for an Engineering covering document should be detailed enough to show you know how to do the job but accessible for a recruiter to be able to understand without a background in engineering itself.

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Engineering Cover Letter: 10 Samples & Writing Tips

In today’s competitive job market, it is essential to have a standout cover letter that catches the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. A cover letter is a crucial component of a job application, and it can help you land your dream job in the engineering industry. This article aims to provide you with useful tips and 10 sample cover letters to help you craft an effective cover letter that showcases your skills, qualifications, and experience.

Importance of a Cover Letter

A cover letter is a document that introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications for the job. It complements your resume and showcases your writing skills, attention to detail, and communication abilities. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position.

General Tips for Writing an Engineering Cover Letter

If you’re applying for an engineering position, your cover letter is an opportunity to make a great first impression on a potential employer. Here are some general tips to help you craft a successful engineering cover letter.

A. Customization

One of the most important things you can do when writing an engineering cover letter is to customize it for the position you’re applying for. This means tailoring your letter to match the job description and highlighting the skills and experience that make you a good fit for the role.

Start by carefully reading the job description to understand the employer’s needs and requirements. Then, use the language and terminology from the job ad to show that you understand the position and are a good match for it.

B. Conciseness

Employers don’t have time to read lengthy cover letters, so it’s important to keep your letter concise and to the point. Be sure to highlight your most relevant skills and experience and explain why you’re a strong candidate for the position.

Use bullet points or short paragraphs to make your letter easy to skim, and avoid repeating information that’s already included in your resume.

C. Formatting

A well-formatted cover letter can help demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism. Use a standard font and formatting style, and be sure to include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information.

You can also consider adding some design elements, such as a header or bullet points, to make your letter stand out. Just be sure to keep the overall design clean and professional.

D. Sign-off

Finally, make sure to end your cover letter with a strong sign-off. Use a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”, followed by your name and contact information.

Remember to proofread your letter carefully for spelling and grammar errors, and ask a trusted friend or colleague to review it as well. With these general tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a winning engineering cover letter.

Types of Engineering Cover Letters

When it comes to writing an engineering cover letter, there are several different types that you might need to consider. Below, we’ll take a look at some of the most common types of engineering cover letters, along with examples and tips for writing each one.

A. Entry-Level Engineering Cover Letter Example

If you’re just starting out in your engineering career, you’ll need to write an entry-level engineering cover letter. This type of cover letter should focus on your education, internships, and any relevant coursework or projects that you’ve completed.

Here’s an example of an entry-level engineering cover letter:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to submit my application for the entry-level engineering position at ABC Company. As a recent graduate of XYZ University’s mechanical engineering program, I have developed a strong foundation in engineering principles and design.

During my time at XYZ University, I completed several projects that allowed me to apply my engineering knowledge to real-world problems. For example, I worked with a team of classmates to design and build a prototype for a solar-powered car. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration and communication in engineering projects.

I am confident that my engineering skills, combined with my strong work ethic and eagerness to learn, make me an excellent candidate for the entry-level engineering position at ABC Company. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

B. Experienced Engineering Cover Letter Example

If you have several years of experience in engineering, you’ll need to focus on highlighting your accomplishments and skills in your cover letter. This type of cover letter should also demonstrate your knowledge of the industry and the company you’re applying to.

Here’s an example of an experienced engineering cover letter:

I am excited to apply for the senior mechanical engineer position at DEF Company. As a mechanical engineer with over 7 years of experience in the aerospace industry, I have a proven track record of designing and implementing successful engineering projects.

In my most recent role at GHI Corporation, I was responsible for leading a team of engineers in the development of a new aircraft engine. Through my leadership and technical abilities, we were able to bring the project in on time and under budget.

I am impressed by DEF Company’s commitment to innovation and creativity in the aerospace industry. I am confident that my experience and skills make me an excellent candidate for the senior mechanical engineer position, and I look forward to contributing to the success of the company.

C. Internship Engineering Cover Letter Example

If you’re applying for an internship in engineering, your cover letter should focus on your educational background and any relevant experience or coursework. You should also demonstrate your enthusiasm for the industry and the company you’re applying to.

Here’s an example of an internship engineering cover letter:

I am excited to apply for the engineering intern position at JK Company.

Engineering Cover Letter Dos and Don’ts

When it comes to writing your engineering cover letter, there are certain things that you should do, and others that you should avoid. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

Show your passion:  Let the hiring manager know that you are truly passionate about engineering. Explain what inspires you and motivates you to pursue this field.

Highlight your qualifications and achievements:  Showcase your education and work experience that aligns with the job requirements. Highlight any notable achievements, such as projects you led or awards you received.

Address the job description:  Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Use keywords and phrases from the job description to show that you have carefully read and understood the requirements.

B. Don’ts

Use generic language or clichés:  Avoid using overused phrases like “team player” or “results-driven”. Instead, use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.

Repeat your resume:  Your cover letter should complement and expand upon your resume, not restate it. Avoid simply rehashing the information listed on your resume.

Make spelling or grammar errors:  Mistakes in grammar or spelling can make a bad impression on a potential employer. Proofread your cover letter and have someone else read it over before submitting. Utilize software, such as Grammarly, to ensure your letter is free of errors.

By following these dos and don’ts, you can create a compelling engineering cover letter that showcases your skills, passion, and qualifications.

Reverse Chronological Order – The Key to Highlighting Your Experience

As an engineer, highlighting your experience is essential in creating a convincing cover letter. One way to structure your experiences is through reverse chronological order. By doing so, you start with your most recent experience and work your way backwards. This format is commonly used by professionals since it effectively showcases the latest skills and accomplishments.

A. How to Structure an Engineering Cover Letter

When structuring your engineering cover letter in reverse chronological order, follow these steps:

• Start with your most relevant and recent work experience. Highlight the key responsibilities and achievements you had during your time in that position.
• Follow with your previous job experiences, working your way back in time, but remember to stay relevant.
• Continue to highlight the key experiences you’ve had, always making sure that they support the role you are applying for.
• Conclude by briefly stating why you are a great fit for the position and express your enthusiasm for the job opportunity.

By structuring your cover letter in reverse chronological order, you are able to emphasize the relevance of your experiences and how it makes you an ideal candidate for the job.

B. Example of Reverse Chronological Order Format

I am pleased to submit my application for the role of Lead Mechanical Engineer at XYZ Corporation. With over five years of experience in the mechanical engineering field, I am confident that my technical skills and leadership experience make me an ideal candidate.

My most recent experience was with ABC Manufacturing as a Senior Mechanical Engineer. In this role, I was responsible for managing a team of engineers in the design and implementation of mechanical systems for their product line. I also spearheaded the implementation of a new automated testing system, which resulted in a 30% increase in efficiency.

Prior to this role, I worked as a Mechanical Design Engineer at DEF Consulting, where I gained expertise in designing and developing various mechanical systems. During my time there, I played a crucial role in the development of a new ceramic coating process that resulted in a 20% reduction in manufacturing time.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from LMN University and am a licensed Professional Engineer in the state of California. I believe that my expertise in mechanical engineering combined with my leadership experience make me an excellent fit for the Lead Mechanical Engineer position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of XYZ Corporation.

Steps to Write an Engineering Cover Letter

If you’re an engineer seeking a job, you need to write a cover letter that will set you apart from the crowd. Here are the six steps to make your engineering cover letter stand out:

A. Analyze the Job Description

The first step in crafting an effective cover letter is to analyze the job description. Identify the most important skills and requirements mentioned in the job posting, and tailor your cover letter to highlight your relevant experiences and qualifications.

B. Conduct Research on the Company

Next, conduct research on the company to which you’re applying. Understanding the company’s values, mission, and culture can help you tailor your cover letter to fit their organization.

C. Create a Structure

Create a structure for your cover letter that includes an opening paragraph, a body, and a closing paragraph. This provides a clear and concise way to organize your thoughts and communicate your qualifications.

D. Write the Body

Use the body of the cover letter to expand on the qualifications mentioned in the job description, highlighting your relevant experiences and accomplishments. Provide specific examples of how you’ve used your engineering skills to solve problems and achieve results.

E. Create an Attractive Opening

The opening paragraph should be concise and attention-grabbing. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and your excitement to contribute to the company.

F. Create a Strong Closing

In the closing paragraph, summarize why you’re the best candidate for the position and thank the reader for their time and consideration. End with a call to action, such as asking for an interview.

By following these six steps, you can craft an engineering cover letter that will showcase your skills and help you land the job. Good luck!

Tips for Writing a Successful Engineering Cover Letter

As an engineering professional, crafting a cover letter that stands out is crucial to landing your dream job. Here are some tips to help you make a lasting impression on recruiters and employers:

A. Highlight Your Skills

Your cover letter should highlight the key engineering skills that you possess. This can include technical abilities such as proficiency in programming languages or software, as well as soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership. Use bullet points and concrete examples to showcase your skills and demonstrate how they align with the job requirements.

B. Emphasize Your Achievements and Accomplishments

In addition to outlining your skills, it is important to highlight your accomplishments and achievements. This can include successful projects or initiatives you have led, publications you have authored or contributed to, awards or recognitions you have received, or other accomplishments that demonstrate your proficiency and potential.

C. Show Your Compatibility with the Company

To help your cover letter stand out from the rest, show your potential employer how you are compatible with their company culture and values. Research the company and its mission statement, and tailor your letter to show how you can contribute to their goals and objectives. This can include discussing why you want to work for that specific company, your passion for the industry, or your shared values.

D. Provide Proof of Your Skills and Achievements

One way to make your cover letter more persuasive and convincing is by providing proof of your skills and achievements. This can include attaching a portfolio of your previous work, including links to your GitHub or social media accounts, or referencing relevant case studies that demonstrate your abilities. You can also include testimonials or recommendations from previous employers or colleagues.

When writing a cover letter for an engineering position, it is important to highlight your skills, emphasize your achievements and accomplishments, demonstrate your compatibility with the company, and provide proof of your skills and achievements. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of impressing potential employers and landing your dream job in the engineering field. ** Follow-Up Email After Sending an Engineering Cover Letter**

A. Purpose of Follow-Up Email

The purpose of sending a follow-up email after sending an engineering cover letter is to express your continued interest in the position for which you have applied. It also serves as an opportunity for you to reiterate your qualifications and to emphasize your enthusiasm for the role.

Sending a follow-up email also demonstrates your professionalism and proactive approach to the job search process. It shows that you are interested and committed to the position, willing to go the extra mile to ensure that you are considered for the job.

B. Sample Follow-Up Email Template

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the engineering cover letter and resume I recently sent for the [Position] role at [Company].

I am incredibly excited about this opportunity and wanted to express my continued interest in the role. I am confident that my skills and experience align perfectly with the requirements of the job.

As a [previous experience], I have developed [specific skills/qualifications] that I believe will allow me to make a significant contribution to the [Company] team. In addition, I am deeply passionate about engineering and am eager to bring my knowledge and enthusiasm to this role.

If there is any additional information you require from me, please do not hesitate to let me know. I can be reached at [your phone number/email address].

Thank you again for your consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further about how I can contribute to the success of [Company].

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Engineering Cover Letter

When applying for an engineering job, a well-crafted cover letter is crucial to stand out from the competition. However, there are common mistakes that engineers make when writing their cover letters that could hinder their chances of getting the job. Here are some of the most common mistakes that you should avoid:

A. Neglecting to Use Keywords from the Job Description

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is failing to include relevant keywords from the job description in your cover letter. Employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) which search for specific keywords to determine whether or not you are a good fit for the job. By not including the keywords, your cover letter might not make it past the initial screening process.

To avoid this mistake, read the job description thoroughly and highlight the key requirements, skills, and qualifications. Make sure to include the relevant keywords in your cover letter, but do not overdo it. The goal is to serve as a match for the position without sounding forced.

B. Making Spelling and Grammar Errors

Your cover letter is a representation of yourself and your abilities. If it contains spelling and grammar mistakes, it reflects poorly on your attention to detail and communication skills. Employers will quickly toss your application in the trash if they notice these errors.

To avoid this pitfall, make sure to proofread your cover letter several times before submitting your application. You may want to enlist someone else to review it as well. Use online tools such as Grammarly to help you catch errors that you might miss.

C. Being Too Casual or Informal

It’s essential to strike a balance between being professional and being too casual or informal. This mistake is especially common among younger engineers who may not have much experience in the workforce. A cover letter that’s too casual can give off the impression that you are not serious about the position.

To avoid this mistake, make sure to use a professional tone in your cover letter. Avoid using slang or overly informal language, and use a professional greeting and closing.

D. Focusing on Needs Rather than Qualifications

Lastly, many engineers make the mistake of focusing on their needs rather than their qualifications. This occurs when a candidate writes about what they want from the job, such as salary or benefits, instead of what they bring to the position.

To avoid this mistake, focus on your qualifications and how they align with the responsibilities of the job. Highlight your achievements and skills that are relevant to the job description. Show the employer how you can add value to the company and contribute to its success.

Avoid these common mistakes that engineers make when writing their cover letters, and make sure to present yourself in the best possible light. With these tips, your cover letter will stand out, and you will be one step closer to landing your dream job in engineering.

Engineering Cover Letter Samples for Job Application

Are you an engineering graduate looking for a job in your field of expertise? A well-crafted cover letter can make all the difference when it comes to landing your dream job. Here are three sample engineering cover letters to help you get started.

A. Sample Engineering Cover Letter 1

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With [Number of] years of experience in [Engineering Specialization], I am confident in my ability to make an immediate and valuable contribution to your team.

At my previous position at [Company Name], I was responsible for [Key Responsibilities or Achievements]. Through these experiences, I have developed a strong foundation in [Key Engineering Skills], which I believe will be essential to executing the responsibilities of this position.

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]’s commitment to [Company Values or Mission Statement], and I am excited to align myself with an organization that shares my passion for [Related Interest or Field].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

B. Sample Engineering Cover Letter 2

As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in [Engineering Specialization], I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am drawn to the opportunity to work for a company that is at the forefront of [Industry or Field], and I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team.

During my time at [University Name], I was involved in [Related Extracurriculars or Projects]. Through these experiences, I gained proficiency in [Key Engineering Skills], which I believe will enable me to excel in this position.

I am impressed by [Company Name]’s reputation for [Key Company Achievements or Values], and I am eager to contribute to the company’s continued success. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

C. Sample Engineering Cover Letter 3

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a seasoned [Engineering Specialization] professional with [Number of] years of experience, I am confident in my ability to make an immediate and valuable contribution to your team.

At [Previous Company Name], I was responsible for [Key Responsibilities or Achievements]. Through these experiences, I developed expertise in [Key Engineering Skills or Specializations], which I believe will be essential to this role.

I am impressed by [Company Name]’s leadership in [Industry or Field], as well as the company’s commitment to [Key Company Attributes or Values].

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Engineering Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Mastering the art of the engineering cover letter is crucial to successfully landing a role in this diverse field. Spanning from aerospace and electrical to chemical and civil, engineering arenas require more than a run-of-the-mill letter.

You need a targeted approach that showcases your expertise, together with your notable skills, achievements, and qualifications. Check out our savvy tips , real-world examples , and professional templates to engineer a cover letter that stands out from the blueprint.

In this guide, we'll cover essential elements that any engineering cover letter should have. Keep reading to learn all about:

• Delving into engineering cover letter samples
• Properly formatting your engineering cover letter
• Creating an effective engineering cover letter header & headline
• Personalizing the greeting of your engineering cover letter
• Writing an attention-grabbing engineering cover letter introduction
• Showcasing your skills & accomplishments in engineering
• Including powerful action words in your cover letter
• Finishing your engineering cover letter with a strong closing statement
• Avoiding common mistakes in an engineering cover letter
• Understanding average salary and job outlook for engineers
• Accessing job search resources for engineers

Junior mechanical engineer cover letter example

What are the strengths of this junior engineer cover letter sample?

• Highlighting achievements: This candidate does a great job of not just describing day-to-day duties but especially highlighting achievements like designing parts, winning an employee of the month award and finishing all projects on schedule. The impact of these achievements is especially important for a junior role.
• Relevant experiences: The writer uses specific examples from their university and work experience to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

What could be improved?

• Personalization of greeting: Using "To whom it may concern" could be considered impersonal and old-fashioned. If at all possible, the candidate should try to find out the hiring manager's name and use it. It demonstrates initiative and attention to detail.
• Direct application to the new role: While the applicant mentions several skills and achievements, it would be helpful to directly link these to the requirements of this new role at Jarx Technologies, Inc. This would show the employer how the candidate can add value in this specific role. 
• Using bullet points: The long paragraph detailing professional experience and skills could be easier to skim if it was broken down into bullet points. Bullet points help highlight individual skills and achievements and make the letter more reader-friendly. 

Civil engineer cover letter example

Why does this engineering cover letter sample work?

• Use of bullet points: The candidate has organized their achievements effectively using bullet points. This makes it easy for the reader to quickly grasp key skills and accomplishments.
• Relevant skills and certifications: The writer references their Certification in Engineering Technician and proficiency in relevant software, clearly demonstrating they have necessary qualifications and skills.

What could we enhance?

• Using a personalized greeting: Similar to the previous example, "Dear Sir/Madam" can come off as impersonal and outdated. Finding the name of the hiring manager adds a personal touch.
• Explaining why this company: While the candidate mentions the role would help their professional and personal growth, they don’t state why this particular company appeals to them. An understanding of and interest in the company's work can strengthen the connection with the reader.

Senior software engineer cover letter example

What makes this senior engineer cover letter sample effective?

• Variety of skills: The candidate mentions a broad range of skills, which demonstrates versatility. They list specific programming languages that they are proficient in, which could be directly relevant to the job.
• Adaptability: The writer communicates their ability to adapt to a variety of technologies. This can be a desirable trait in the ever-evolving field of software engineering.

How could we make this sample better?

• Greeting: Once again, "Dear Sir/Madam" can be replaced with the hiring manager's name, if it's possible to find out.
• Linking skills to job requirements: While the applicant does mention their skills, these aren’t directly linked to any job requirements. Specific examples showing how their skills have added value to previous projects would give a better idea of their practical application.
• Lack of company-specific motivation: Much like previous examples, this candidate doesn’t convey why they're attracted to the specific company. This kind of interest shows the employer that the applicant has a genuine motivation to contribute to the company.

1. Properly format your engineering cover letter

Just as the efficiency of a well-constructed bridge depends on its structure, the effectiveness of your cover letter rests largely on its format . The appearance of your letter can influence the first impression you make on hiring managers.

Here are some general formatting tips to make your cover letter clear, concise, and reader-friendly:

• Alignment and margins: Align your text to the left margin. This layout is easier to read and looks tidy. Stick to standard 1-inch margins for a neat presentation. 
• Font consistency: Pick a professional font such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Keep your font size somewhere between 10 and 12 points for optimal legibility. The same rule applies to your resume, ensuring that your job application package is consistent.
• Spacing : Avoid solid blocks of text, which can be difficult to digest. Use single spacing within paragraphs and a space between each paragraph. 
• Bullet points: When highlighting key achievements or skills, consider using bullet points. They make your achievements stand out and are conveniently easy to scan through.
• The rule of one: Keep your cover letter to a single, one-sided page. You want to convey the essentials while respecting the time of your reader.
• Document file type:  If the job post doesn't say otherwise, save your cover letter as a PDF before sending it. This will maintain your formatting across different devices and screen sizes.
• Proofreading:  It might not directly connect to the format, but even the most elegant letter can be undermined by typos and grammatical errors. Ensure perfect punctuation, grammar and spelling before sending it off.

The cover letter is your professional introduction to potential employers. It's a chance to direct attention towards your strongest attributes and to show an understanding of the company's values. And so, it should look as professional as the expertise it describes.

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2. create an effective engineering cover letter header & headline.

To start writing your engineering cover letter, the first key step is to create a header and headline.

A cover letter header refers to the block of text found at the top of the document. In this header, you will include all the necessary information about yourself and the company you are applying to.

Following the header is the cover letter headline , a title statement used to hook the attention of employers with an accurate and compelling preview of the most important information in the letter. While a headline is considered optional, it can be a powerful tool to use to intrigue employers.

Below are more in-depth explanations and examples of the cover letter header and headline:

Formatting the header

The header is the first bit of information an employer will come across on your cover letter. As such, you want your name to be noticeable and the header to be well-organized.

An engineering header should contain:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name of the company & department you are applying to
• The address of the company you are applying to

 Here are two contrasting examples of cover letter headers:

Bad example of a cover letter header

Hank Green mobile: (123) 456-7890 email: [email protected] Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/hank-green To Atlanta Engineering Group's Construction & Management Department

Why is it weak? This header seems jumbled and lacks organization due to different uses of punctuation and inconsistent formatting. The wording and layout make it harder to see at a glance who the letter is from, who it's to, and the relevant contact details. It also looks less professional and doesn't leave the best first impression.

Good example of an engineering cover letter header

Hank Green , Civil Engineer (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/hank-green

To: Atlanta Engineering Group Construction & Management Department 1234 Street Address Atlanta, GA, 30301

Why does it work? There is clear and consistent formatting throughout. The applicant's name and title are at the top, followed by their contact information including phone, email, and LinkedIn — all neatly separated by vertical separators. Next, the recipient's company and department are clearly noted. This means that Hank Green has taken the time to address his letter to the specific department where he wants to apply, showing his genuine interest in the position.

Writing the headline

While a headline is considered an optional element of a cover letter, a well-written headline can go a long way in initially impressing and intriguing an employer. While it isn't mandatory, it's a way to differentiate your application and succinctly state your value proposition.

A good headline, much like the title of an article, gives the reader an idea of what to expect from the content. Just one short, punchy statement can set you apart.

Bad cover letter headline example

Applying for the Civil Engineer Job

Why is it weak? This rather lackluster headline doesn't tell the employer anything beyond what they already know (you're applying for the job), and it lacks energy and professionalism. It's a missed opportunity to highlight experience, skills, or a unique selling proposition.

Good cover letter headline example

Experienced Civil Engineer Specializing in Sustainable Urban Infrastructure

Why is it effective? This well-constructed headline immediately informs the employer that this candidate has experience, a field of specialty, and a specific focus (sustainability) — three things that are likely to be of interest to an engineering firm.

All in all, an effective headline should quickly and clearly present who you are as a professional and what you bring to the table. It's a chance to captivate the hiring manager and spark their interest in learning more about you.

3. Personalize the greeting of your engineering cover letter

Anytime you write an engineering cover letter , it is crucial to personalize both the greeting and content of the letter. To do so, you will need to thoroughly research the company beforehand, including:

• Who will review your cover letter and application
• What the company’s values and goals are
• How your experience relates to the company’s projects

A personalized greeting is a type of greeting that addresses a specific person by name. By including this type of greeting, you immediately show the employer that you have researched their company and have excellent attention to detail.

Here are 3 examples of personalized greetings

• Dear Mrs. Jane Doe,
• To Mrs. Jane Doe, Hiring Manager at Atlanta Engineering Group,
• To Mrs. Jane Doe & the Engineering Team, 

However, there may be scenarios where you may not find the exact person who will be reviewing your application. In such a case, don't panic. You can still address your cover letter with a general but still professional greeting.

Avoid overly generic phrases such as "To whom it may concern," or "Dear Sir/Madam," as these can feel impersonal and outdated. Instead, opt for a more current and less gender-specific greeting.

Here are 3 examples of general greetings for your engineering cover letter

Dear Hiring Manager, To the Engineering Team, Dear [Company Name] Team,

While these greetings aren't as personalized as addressing someone directly, they still provide an appropriately formal and respectful introduction to your engineering cover letter. Just remember to follow these greetings with a comma or colon as per your preferred style and regional norms.

4. Write an attention-grabbing engineering cover letter introduction

The introduction of your engineering cover letter not only introduces you to the employer but also ensures their interest stays piqued, encouraging them to read further.

To make your introduction compelling, you should include:

• A brief overview of your professional history using quantifiable facts (years of experience, position titles, etc.)
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible) — including a mutual acquaintance provides the employer with a trusted professional reference, as well as helps you to build credibility.

Pro Tip: If you do not have any mutual acquaintances, connecting with relevant professionals on LinkedIn is a great way to build your professional network.

Bad example of an engineering cover letter introduction

Dear Hiring Manager,

You should hire me as I have been a mechanical engineer for a few years now. I know how prototypes work and think your company could use someone like me.

 Why does it fall flat? It's simply too vague and lacks excitement about the role or the company. It also doesn't give enough detail about the candidate's experience from the start.

Good engineering cover letter introduction example

To Mrs. Jane Doe & the Engineering Team,

I am a Mechanical Engineer with more than 6 years of experience working in prototype design. The description for this position is an excellent match for my skill set and I am confident I will be a worthwhile and profitable addition to your team. To learn more about your company, I reached out to your Head of Communications – Jack Smith – on LinkedIn, who strongly recommended I apply upon reviewing my resume.

Why does it work? This   example provides the hiring manager with a clear and concise snapshot of the applicant's background, states exactly how their skills pair well with the job specifications, and even goes as far as to name-drop a known contact.

In brief, while developing your introduction, always aim to strike a balance between informative and concise, ensuring each word serves a purpose. Relay your enthusiasm for both the role and the company, and if possible, make a mention of any meaningful connections or interactions you've had with anyone from the company.

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5. Showcase your skills & accomplishments in engineering

With your introduction in place, the next step is to write the largest section of your cover letter — the body paragraphs. In these body paragraphs is where you will expand upon your various relevant skills, accomplishments, and qualifications.

You should aim to include between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that answer the following key questions:

• What excites you about working at this company?
• What can your skills and experience contribute to the company?
• What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
• What key skills do you possess that are relevant to the position?

Here are 6 examples of engineering skills to include in your cover letter

• Computer modeling
• Problem-solving
• Structural analysis
• Project management
• Collaboration

When including skills, make sure to give them context – such as how you applied them at previous positions and how you plan to employ them in this new position.

Here are some examples of how to describe an accomplishment in an engineering cover letter

Successfully Led Complex Engineering Projects: In my previous role as a Senior Mechanical Engineer at XYZ Company, I led a cross-functional team in the successful design and implementation of a cutting-edge manufacturing process. By overseeing the project from concept to completion, I achieved a 30% increase in production efficiency while reducing costs by 20%. This accomplishment demonstrates my ability to manage complex engineering projects, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and deliver tangible results.

Improved Product Design and Performance: As a Design Engineer, I played a pivotal role in enhancing the performance of a key product line. Through rigorous analysis and testing, I identified design flaws and implemented innovative solutions that resulted in a 15% improvement in product reliability. By closely collaborating with the manufacturing team, I also achieved a 10% reduction in product assembly time, leading to increased productivity and customer satisfaction.

Streamlined Engineering Processes: In my role as a Process Engineer, I implemented process improvements that significantly enhanced operational efficiency. By conducting time studies, analyzing workflow, and introducing lean principles, I achieved a 25% reduction in production cycle time and a 30% decrease in material waste. These improvements not only optimized resource utilization but also improved overall product quality and reduced lead times.

6. Make your engineering cover letter stand out with action words

When crafting your engineering cover letter, choosing the right verbs is crucial to convincingly paint a picture of your skills, work experience, and achievements. These action words demonstrate your contributions in prior roles and can make your letter more engaging , powerful and memorable .

Action words are effective because they provide a dynamic description of your abilities. They make your experiences more vivid for the reader, providing concrete examples of what you can accomplish. 

Here's a selection of action words that can help illustrate your engineering abilities

Using these action words strategically throughout your cover letter can give it a significant boost, making your experiences stand out and leaving the hiring manager with a solid understanding of your abilities. The key here is authenticity — make sure the verbs you choose accurately portray your skills and experiences.

7. Finish your engineering cover letter with a strong closing statement

To conclude your engineering cover letter, end with a strong closing statement that includes:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
• A formal sign-off

Bad example of an engineering cover letter conclusion

Thanks for reading my letter. Let me know if you are interested.

[Applicant Name]

Why does it fall flat?  This example lacks the enthusiasm and initiative that would compel the hiring manager to reach out. There's no clear indication of follow-up, and it doesn't give explicit contact details or preferred times for contact. 

Here is an example of a well-worded closing statement from an engineering cover letter

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I greatly look forward to hearing from you and will reach back out next Wednesday if I have not heard back. The best time and way to reach me is from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, at (123) 456-7890.

Warm Regards,

Why does it work? This example keeps the reader engaged to the end. The writer thanks the hiring manager for their time, shows eagerness about hearing back, and takes the initiative to follow up. The added detail about the best times for contact also shows consideration for the hiring manager's time.

In conclusion, wrap up your cover letter on a high note — make it clear that you're excited about the potential opportunity, indicate your plan for follow-up, and ensure your contact details are easily accessible. This leaves a lasting impression and steers the conversation towards the next steps.

Follow this cover letter outline for maximum success.

8. How to avoid common mistakes in an engineering cover letter

When crafting your cover letter, it's easy to overlook small details. Let's explore some common pitfalls that can potentially dull the impact of your cover letter and ways to avoid them.

• Lack of focus:  Going off on a tangent in your cover letter isn't just distracting—it can also be off-putting for the reader. Stick to your most relevant experiences and skills. For instance, if you're applying for a civil engineering role, detailing your experience as a retail assistant may not be pertinent, unless you can tie it back to transferable skills. Avoid: "In my previous role as a retail assistant..." Use: "Through my experience as a project engineer, in which I consistently collaborated with diverse teams..."   
• Forgetting to proofread:  A typo or grammatical error can potentially harm your professional image. Triple-check your document before sending it.  
• Failing to mention the company:  Generic cover letters lack the personal touch that can make an application stand out. Tailor each cover letter to the company and role to show your interest. Instead of: "I look forward to the opportunity to work in this role..." Try: "I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to ABC engineering's innovative projects..."  
• Neglecting to show enthusiasm:  Enthusiasm for the role can set you apart from other candidates who have similar qualifications. Show passion for both the role and the company in general. Avoid: "I am applying for this position because I am looking for new opportunities..." Try: "I am eager to bring my creative problem-solving skills to XYZ Company, which I admire for its innovative approach..."

Using cliches or buzzwords: Language that's too generic can seem insincere and fail to show your unique qualities. Avoid: "I'm a team player with excellent communication skills..." Opt for: "In my previous role, I collaborated with a diverse group of colleagues to successfully complete a challenging bridge project ahead of schedule..."

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to make an impression. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure that what stands out to a hiring manager is your competency and dedication to the role, not easily avoidable errors or irrelevant information.

9. Average salary and job outlook for engineers

When considering a career in engineering, it's crucial to understand the industry's landscape. Let’s take a look at the most recent statistics to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

According to the Michigan Technological University , the average annual salary for engineers in 2024 in the U.S. stood at a comfortably high figure of $100,640 . This demonstrates the significant financial prospects of an engineering career.

But it's not just about the promising salary; the job outlook for engineers also proves encouraging. Across the board, the engineering field is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2020 to 2030. This positive forecast equates to the creation of almost 146,000 new engineering jobs in the next decade.

These figures confirm the stability of pursuing a career in engineering. What's more, this constant demand for engineers means the industry’s key role in developing solutions for our modern world’s grand challenges.

10. Top job search resources for engineers

Venturing into the engineering job market requires a smart strategy, equipped with varied resources. Here are a few categories you should consider:

• Industry websites and blogs: Websites like Engineering.com don't just list jobs — they serve as a trove of industry information, thought-provoking articles, and networking opportunities.
• Social media groups: Communities on LinkedIn and Facebook cater to engineers offering a platform where professionals can interact, ask questions, and often find job postings.
• Online courses: Stay sharp and up-to-date in your specific field with courses on platforms such as Coursera and Udemy . 
• Professional organizations: Joining groups like the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) can provide fantastic networking opportunities, industry news, and job listings.
• Job boards: Broaden your search beyond generic job boards. Engineer jobs Simply Hired  and IEEE Job Site , for instance, cater specifically to engineers. They're a valuable resource for accessing a wide array of engineering jobs all in one place.

In an industry that is always changing and innovating, staying in the loop is important. And these resources can help you do just that.

Engineering Cover Letter FAQ

What should be the main focus of my engineering cover letter.

Your cover letter should highlight your specific engineering expertise, core skills, key achievements, and how they align with the job requirements. Proving that you understand the role and can contribute significantly to it is pivotal. 

How important is personalization in my engineering cover letter?

Hugely important. A generic cover letter is a missed opportunity. Tailor your cover letter to each job application, addressing the hiring manager by name if possible, and clearly articulating why you're a good fit for that particular role at their company.

How long should an engineering cover letter be?

Keep your cover letter concise, ideally one page. Recruiters spend only a few seconds scanning each application, so make sure every sentence counts.

Can I repeat what's on my resume in my cover letter?

No, your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it. While you can highlight key achievements and experiences from your resume, use your cover letter to delve deeper, explaining the context and impact of your accomplishments.

What if I don’t have a lot of engineering experience?

If you're just getting started in your career, focus on your education, internships, projects, and transferable skills relevant to the role. Describe how these experiences have equipped you with the skills needed for the job.

Nikoleta Kuhejda

A journalist by trade, a writer by fate. Nikoleta went from writing for media outlets to exploring the world of content creation with Kickresume and helping people get closer to the job of their dreams. Her insights and career guides have been published by The Female Lead , College Recruiter , and ISIC, among others. When she’s not writing or (enthusiastically) pestering people with questions, you can find her traveling or sipping on a cup of coffee.

Subcategories

• Aerospace Engineer
• CAD Designer
• Chemical Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Production Manager
• QA Engineer (Quality Assurance)
• Quality Engineer

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Engineer Cover Letter Example

Engineers play a critical role in numerous industries, including construction, aerospace, chemical development, manufacturing, and more. They perform highly technical work and are responsible for ensuring that finished products function safely and as intended. An expertly crafted engineer cover letter will help you demonstrate your qualifications and land an ideal position in your chosen specialty. Check out our engineering cover letter example so you know exactly what your letter needs to include.

Why a profession-specific cover letter matters 

A profession-specific cover letter is crucial in the competitive field of engineering.

When paired with a well-organized resume , a cover letter is your opportunity to demonstrate how your unique skills and experiences align with the role and the company’s needs. Engineering positions often require specific technical competencies, project management skills, and problem-solving abilities.

A generic cover letter fails to showcase these qualities effectively, instead leaving you lost in a sea of applications. Tailoring your cover letter to the engineering discipline not only highlights your expertise but also shows your genuine interest and dedication to the field, significantly enhancing your chances of landing the job.

Key components of an engineer-specific cover letter 

An engineering cover letter will include similar components to a CV for other professions. When writing a cover letter for an engineering job, think of it as your chance to chat with the hiring team and show them what makes you the right person for the job.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what to include:

• Friendly Hello and Quick Intro: Start with a warm introduction, telling them which job you’re interested in and letting them know you’re excited about the opportunity
• Your Career Highlights: Talk about your engineering experience, focusing on what you’ve done that’s similar to the job you’re applying for; if you’ve got some impressive achievements under your belt, be sure to mention them
• Your Tech Skills: Engineering jobs often require certain technical know-how, so make it a point to mention the software or techniques you’re especially good at
• Your Problem-Solving Stories: Share a story or two about how you’ve thought outside the box to fix a tricky problem
• Team Player Points: Since engineering often involves working with others, let them know you’re great at working in a team
• Why You Like Their Company: Show that you’ve done your homework about the company — note any projects they have underway, what they stand for, and other specific points
• A Friendly Sign-Off: End by saying you’re looking forward to chatting more about how you can help them

While your resume is all about your skills and experience, your cover letter is your chance to show your personality and articulate why you’d fit in great at a particular company. 

Engineer Cover letter format 

When it comes to writing a cover letter, engineering professionals need to follow a standard business format. Here’s what your engineering cover letter needs to include:

• Header: Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s name and contact information
• Greeting: Address the letter to a specific person, if possible; if not, use a general greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager”
• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state the position you’re applying for
• Body: In one or two paragraphs, highlight your relevant skills and experiences
• Conclusion: Summarize your qualifications, express your interest in the role, and include a call to action
• Closing: End with a professional closing, such as “Respectfully,” followed by your name

Depending on where you work, your employer might request a CV instead of a cover letter. Using CV templates can help you adapt to the subtle differences between CVs and cover letters.

Sample cover letter for engineering 

John Smith [email protected] (281) 867-5309 Houston, TX 77089

Sandra Hyres Power Company USA 123 Broadway Ave, Suite 221 Houston, TX 77092 27 October 2023

Dear Mrs. Hyres,

My name is John Smith, and I am writing to express my interest in the mechanical engineering position at Power Company USA, as advertised on Jobseeker. With a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and four years of experience in product design and development, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team. 

As a native of the great state of Texas, I have spent countless hours commuting down the Katy Freeway and have passed your headquarters hundreds of times. For years, I have viewed your company logo as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. These values align with my own passion for creating a greener, cleaner, and more efficient future for our fellow Houstonians, as well as the global community.

In my current role at Products ‘R’ Us, I have led a team in designing and developing a new line of energy-efficient heating systems, which resulted in a 20% increase in market share within two years. My proficiency in SolidWorks and AutoCAD, coupled with my strong background in thermodynamics and materials science, was pivotal in this achievement.

I am particularly drawn to Power Company USA due to your commitment to sustainable engineering solutions. My experience in implementing eco-friendly design principles aligns with your company’s vision and mission. Additionally, my proven ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams would enable me to integrate seamlessly into your organization. 

At Products ‘R’ Us, I was also responsible for overseeing the entire product lifecycle, from conception to production. This experience honed my project management skills and my ability to work under tight deadlines without compromising on quality. Moreover, I consistently employed innovative problem-solving techniques to overcome design challenges, reducing production costs by 5% without affecting product integrity.

I am eager to bring my expertise in mechanical engineering and my passion for sustainable design to Power Company USA. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your upcoming projects and collaborate with your talented team. Together, I believe we could continue to pursue innovation and bring Power Company USA customers newer, more efficient home solutions.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application in further detail.

Respectfully,

Attachments: Resume and supporting documents 

Dos and Don’ts 

Now that we’ve provided some engineering cover letter examples, let’s shift our focus to some general “dos” and “don’ts” that will help you craft a great letter. 

• Do customize your cover letter for each application
• Do research the company and reference specific projects or values
• Do use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact
• Do keep your cover letter concise and focused
• Do proofread to avoid any grammatical or spelling errors
• Don’t use generic terminology
• Don’t include irrelevant experiences or skills
• Don’t repeat your resume; instead, complement it
• Don’t use overly complex jargon that obscures your message
• Don’t forget to include a call to action in your conclusion

Your engineering cover letter is supposed to be all about you and your skills, abilities, and achievements. That said, it’s important to balance confidence with humbleness and a team focus.

Make sure you bring up the company’s values and briefly outline how they align with your own. By doing so, you can illustrate that you’re a good fit for the business and instill confidence that you’ll have near-instant chemistry with the existing team.

Additional tips 

Perfecting your engineering cover letter will help you stand out and land your dream job. However, a lot goes into writing the perfect engineering cover letter. With that in mind, here are some additional tips to consider:

• Showcase Soft Skills: Highlight your communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities along with your technical skills
• Be Specific: Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and experiences
• Use Keywords: Include relevant keywords from the job description in your cover letter
• Maintain a Professional Tone: Maintain a professional yet approachable tone throughout your cover letter
• Follow-Up: If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up email reaffirming your interest 

It’s a good idea to check out more cover letter and CV examples , as each can serve as inspiration for your own cover letter. We also recommend using resume templates to go with your cover letter and present a great overview of yourself as a candidate.

Stand out with our engineering cover letter templates

When using an engineering cover letter example as a guide, always tailor your messaging to address your unique audience. Maintain a professional tone and avoid calling attention to any experience or skill gaps.

It’s important to be authentic from the introduction to the call to action. Articulate your responsibilities and accomplishments in a way that highlights their value while maintaining a confident tone.

As you can see, a lot goes into creating an engineering cover letter and resume. Fortunately, Jobseeker’s resume examples and cover letter templates make it easy to stand out while pursuing your dream job. Start creating your engineering cover letter today with Jobseeker.

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Engineering cover letter examples

If you’re ready to secure your next engineering role, you need an engaging application that helps you to stand out.

But when you’re working with similar skills and qualifications to other candidates, you need to go one step further to grab the hiring manager’s attention.

To help you do this, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide, complete with several detailed engineering cover letter examples to shape your own.

CV templates 

Engineering cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

Engineering cover letter example 2

Engineering cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Engineering cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write an Engineering cover letter

Here’s a simple process to write your own interview-winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

Type the content of your cover letter directly into the email you are sending, or if you are applying via a job board, directly into their messaging system.

The reason for doing this it to ensure that your cover letter gets seen instantly and you can start connecting with the recruiter as soon as they open your message.

If you attach your cover letter as a separate document, the recipient will have to open up the document, which will slow the process down, or make them less likely to even open your cover letter – which could mean your application gets skipped over.

Start with a friendly greeting

To start building rapport with the recruiter or hiring manager right away, lead with a friendly greeting.

Try to strike a balance between professional and personable.

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Stay away from old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies – they can come across as cold and robotic.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try to uncover it via these methods.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Engineering role* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Engineering cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Engineering cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

• Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
• Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
• The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
• Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
• Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

Engineering cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Engineering cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Hope you’re well.

I would like to express my sincere interest in the Senior Civil Engineer position you have available at Jacobs Engineering Group. With my 15+ years of experience, including 10 years in management roles, I have a proven record of driving a variety of small and large-scale construction projects.

In my current role as a Civil Engineer at Marx Group, I have consistently lowered expenses, accomplished high revenue, and optimising client satisfaction. Over the past 8 years, my initiatives have led to 25% reduction in costs, 40% boost in profits through winning numerous tenders, as well as a 15% increase in CSAT due to delivering projects ahead of schedule. I am commitment to the quality, safety, and sustainability of operations, as well as complying with relevant codes, regulations, and best practices.

I am excited about the opportunity to meet you at your earliest convenience to further discuss how my skills and experience could add value to your department.

Kind regards

John Hamilton ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Graduate Civil Engineer position at Gannett Fleming, as advertised on LinkedIn. As a recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of London, I am eager to begin my professional career and make a meaningful contribution to your esteemed establishment.

I have developed a solid foundation in engineering principles and gained hands-on experience through 13 projects during 3 internships, where I contributed towards lowering material costs by 10% and bolstering client satisfaction levels by 15% as a result of fostering strong communication efforts. My dedication to learning, coupled with my strong analytical and problem-solving skills, has equipped me with the necessary competencies to excel in this field. I am proficient in using industry-standard software, such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and SAP2000 for design, drafting, and analysis purposes.

I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my career aspirations align with your objectives. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Christopher Brown ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Good morning, Amanda

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing in response to AE Yates’ advertisement for a Civil Engineering Manager on your website. As a seasoned civil engineer with 20+ year of experience in the industry, I have efficiently spearheaded and delivered a wide range of complex construction project solutions.

I have been a Senior Civil Engineer for the past 10 years with PT Construction Corporation, where I have obtained 100% regulatory approvals and permits for 200+ projects, decreased delays by 25% through effective resource allocation, as well as implemented sustainable design practices which reduced in energy consumption by 35%. I am highly skilled in using engineering software to streamline processes and enhance efficiency, while fostering strong communication and collaboration with team members and clients. My strategic mind-set has enabled me to excel in identifying risks and opportunities that drive business continuity.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your team and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Adam Jenkins ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing an Engineering job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 project engineer cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Project Engineer cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Project Engineer
• Senior Project Engineer
• Assistant Project Engineer
• Associate Project Engineer
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Project Engineer resume examples

Project Engineer Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, highlighting relevant accomplishments.

By sharing a specific accomplishment that aligns with the company's mission, you demonstrate your ability to contribute to their goals. Include quantifiable results to further emphasize your impact.

Sharing Additional Successes

Providing another example of a successful project showcases your skills and experience in the industry. This further strengthens your case as a strong candidate for the role.

Expressing Genuine Excitement

Showing enthusiasm about the role and the company's projects creates a connection with the employer. This indicates that you genuinely care about the position and will be highly motivated to contribute to their success.

Show genuine enthusiasm for the company

Mentioning the company's name in your introductory paragraph and expressing your passion for what they stand for can help capture the attention of the hiring manager. It shows your genuine interest in the company, not just the role. It also demonstrates that you've done some research on the company and align with their values.

Narrating Your Unique Journey

Telling your personal story can be quite powerful. By saying "My journey in engineering has been anything but typical," you show that you're not just another candidate with a similar background. It makes a recruiter curious to learn more about your unique path and experiences.

Quantifying Success

When you say you "increased project delivery speed by 30%," you're providing concrete evidence of your abilities. A percentage increase is easy to understand and gives a clear picture of the impact you had. It's much more persuasive than just saying you improved something.

Aligning Personal Goals with Company's Vision

Expressing that you "see Siemens as the perfect stage to take this passion to the next level" shows that you share the company's values and are ready to contribute meaningfully. It tells me that you've done your research and see yourself fitting in well with the company's mission and culture.

Emotionally Connecting with the Role

Stating "What excites me most about this role is the opportunity to work on projects that matter" shows you're motivated by more than just a paycheck. It signals that you genuinely care about the work you do, which can make you a more engaged and productive employee.

Expressing a Greater Purpose

By saying "It's not just about being a Project Engineer; it's about being a part of something bigger than myself," you're showing that you're not just focused on the day-to-day tasks, but you're also interested in the bigger picture. This indicates you have a broader perspective and can be an asset to any team.

Connect with the company's mission

When you share why you're drawn to the company, it shows that your values match theirs. This is a key point for any project engineer applying for a job.

Detail your project successes

Specific examples of your work, like leading an engineering team or improving efficiency, show you can handle the tasks of a project engineer.

Demonstrate your ability to manage projects

Highlighting your skills in managing complex projects and working with teams gives a clear picture of what you bring to the table.

Highlight your passion for sustainable solutions

Expressing your interest in sustainability aligns with modern engineering values and shows you're forward-thinking.

Show eagerness for the role

A polite closing with a call to action, expressing hope for a discussion, makes your application memorable.

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Show admiration for the company’s mission

Expressing excitement for the role and appreciation for the company's innovation and quality demonstrates your genuine interest and alignment with their goals.

Detail your project management experience

Describing your skills in project management, problem-solving, and leadership not only highlights your qualifications but also how they directly apply to the role you're seeking.

Value your teamwork and communication skills

Emphasizing your ability to work well with others and convey ideas effectively shows your capability to contribute positively to the team dynamic.

Align your passion with company objectives

Sharing your enthusiasm for innovative solutions to complex challenges and how it matches the company's vision underscores your potential as a forward-thinking team member.

Convey eagerness to contribute to success

Ending your letter with a thank you and a forward-looking message about contributing to the company's achievements is both respectful and optimistic.

Show enthusiasm for the company's projects

Your excitement about the employer's work can make your cover letter stand out. Mentioning specific projects shows you've done your research and are genuinely interested in what the company does.

Detail your project engineer skills

Highlighting specific skills and how you've applied them in your career can demonstrate your capability for the role. It's important to show, not just tell, how you've used these skills effectively.

Emphasize relationship-building in engineering projects

Strong relationships are key in project management. Showing you can work well with clients and teams suggests you're not just technically competent, but also a team player who values collaboration.

Connect your values with the company’s mission

By aligning your passion for innovation with the company's commitment to pushing boundaries, you're showing a deeper level of compatibility with the potential employer's culture and goals.

Express eagerness for the interview

Closing your cover letter by looking forward to an interview discussion reaffirms your interest in the position and shows you're eager to contribute to the company's success.

Senior Project Engineer Cover Letter Example

Highlight relevant achievements.

Sharing past accomplishments relevant to the role you're applying for, especially those that had a substantial, quantifiable impact, is crucial. Remember, hiring managers want evidence that you can not only do the job but excel at it. Your past achievements serve as testimonies to your potential future successes.

Expressing Core Philosophy

Outlining your core belief, like "At its core, my engineering philosophy is about making the impossible possible," provides a sense of who you are as a professional. It tells me that you're not only technically competent but also have a guiding principle that motivates your work.

Highlighting Innovation

When you mention "resulting in a patented solution that cut energy consumption by 25%," you're showing that you can innovate effectively. A patented solution is a solid proof of unique thinking, and it's even better when this solution brings measurable benefits.

Displaying Effective Leadership

The phrase "managed a cross-disciplinary team on a multimillion-dollar project that came in 10% under budget and two weeks ahead of schedule" shows your ability to lead and deliver results. It provides evidence of your project management skills and your capacity to handle large-scale assignments.

Communicating a Shared Ethos

By saying "Your commitment to innovation and sustainability matches my professional ethos," you're aligning your personal brand with the company's ethos. It tells me you've done your homework and believe in what the company stands for, which makes you look like a good cultural fit.

Building on Legacy

When you express the desire to "build on the company's legacy of innovation," you show respect for the company's past and enthusiasm for its future. It presents you as someone who is forward-looking and eager to contribute to the ongoing success of the company.

Showcase leadership in engineering projects

Emphasizing your successful leadership in past projects suggests you're ready for the senior project engineer role.

Prove your strategic and technical skills

Detailing specific achievements and how you accomplished them proves your capability in strategic planning and technical execution.

Express enthusiasm for the company's vision

Showing excitement about the company's innovation and excellence demonstrates you're a good fit for their culture and goals.

Stress your commitment to sustainability

Your experience in green engineering and dedication to improvement shows you're aligned with the company's mission for a sustainable future.

Invite further discussion

Ending with a courteous thank you and a look forward to discussing your application further leaves a positive impression.

Show your project engineer impact

When you talk about completing projects on time and under budget, it shows you can handle responsibility and save resources. This is exactly what hiring managers want to see.

Highlight your teamwork and risk management

Explaining how you work with teams and handle problems before they happen proves you’re a leader who thinks ahead. This can make a big difference in big projects.

Connect with the company’s mission

Mentioning your excitement for the company’s projects shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in what they do. This makes you look like a better fit for their team.

Emphasize leadership in engineering

Talking about leading teams and mentoring others shows you’re not just skilled in engineering, but also in managing people. This is key for a senior role.

Combine expertise with impact

Stating your confidence in making an immediate impact with your technical and leadership skills invites the hiring manager to envision you in the role, making you a memorable candidate.

Demonstrate leadership in senior engineering roles

Showing you can guide multidisciplinary teams and manage significant projects underscores the leadership skills crucial for a senior project engineer position.

Highlight your problem-solving strategies

Discussing how you've identified and mitigated risks in projects showcases your proactive approach to problem-solving, an essential skill for senior engineering roles.

Show alignment with the company’s sustainable goals

Expressing admiration for the company's commitment to sustainable solutions highlights your shared values and interest in contributing to meaningful projects.

Emphasize your experience with advanced technologies

Mentioning your experience with cutting-edge technologies and your enthusiasm for innovation demonstrates that you're not only qualified but also forward-thinking and ready to tackle future challenges.

Convey strong interest in contributing to the company

Ending your cover letter with a statement of eagerness to contribute to the company's success reinforces your commitment and excitement for the role.

Assistant Project Engineer Cover Letter Example

Show your enthusiasm for project engineering.

Sharing your passion for engineering and interest in infrastructure projects sets a positive tone and shows your genuine excitement about the opportunity.

Highlight real-world experience

Talking about your internship and the responsibilities you handled demonstrates your readiness to apply your academic knowledge in practical scenarios.

Connect with the company's values

Mentioning your alignment with the company's commitment to innovation and sustainable solutions helps establish you as a good cultural fit.

Emphasize adaptability and continuous learning

Stating your strong work ethic and eagerness to learn is crucial in showing your potential to grow and excel in a challenging environment.

Express gratitude and eagerness to contribute

Closing your letter by thanking the hiring manager and reiterating your excitement to contribute underscores your professional etiquette and enthusiasm for the role.

Show your assistant project engineer teamwork and technical skills

When you talk about working well in both individual and group settings, you make it clear that you're versatile. It's good to show you can handle various aspects of engineering projects, from the technical details to cooperating with a team.

Highlight your project success

Describing a specific project where you excelled is a solid move. It shows you're not only passionate about engineering but can also face big challenges and find smart solutions. This kind of story is exactly what makes you memorable.

Pointing out why you're drawn to the company is smart. It shows you've done your homework and you're not just looking for any job but a place where your values and the company's align. This is a strong way to demonstrate you're a good fit.

Show enthusiasm for learning and growth

Expressing your eagerness to learn from and work with a team of experts is a great strategy. It tells me you're someone who's not only skilled but also keen on growing and contributing to important projects.

Express your eagerness to contribute

Finishing by reiterating your desire to use your skills to help the company succeed is a powerful closing. It wraps up your cover letter on a high note, reinforcing your commitment and excitement about the opportunity.

Associate Project Engineer Cover Letter Example

Express your enthusiasm for engineering.

Your excitement about joining a company because of its mission demonstrates that your values align with theirs, which is appealing to employers looking for passionate team members.

Detail your project management skills

Describing your hands-on experience with projects during your studies shows that you not only have theoretical knowledge but practical skills too, making you a strong candidate even as a recent graduate.

Show your commitment to sustainable engineering

Highlighting your experience with green building and sustainability initiatives illustrates your commitment to important industry trends and practices, making you stand out as a forward-thinking candidate.

Share your interest in innovative projects

Expressing excitement about working on cutting-edge projects shows that you are eager to tackle challenges and contribute to significant advancements, which is exactly the kind of drive companies look for.

Thank the hiring manager

Closing your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for their time and expressing eagerness to discuss your application further shows professionalism and respect for the recruitment process.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / 12 Best Engineering Cover Letter Examples (Writing Tips)

12 Best Engineering Cover Letter Examples (Writing Tips)

Engineering is one technical field that requires you to convince recruiters of your aptitude outside of the classroom and the ability to tie learned knowledge with the daily challenges in this field. Hence, a cover letter and your résumé give the potential employer an overview of your skills, experiences, and technical knowledge that will benefit them as an organization. In addition, it gives them a general first impression of what you have to offer them.

Writing a cover letter is therefore essential to your resume since it launches your engineering career off to a great start. Thus, this article has outlined significant points, which you must include in it to represent you as skilled in your field.

Free Sample Letters

The cover letter aims to introduce you to a potential employer and sell you to them as the best candidate for the available job. In about 400 words, the document summarises your skills, work experiences, and benefits that you can bring to the organization. In addition, and although this is part of your résumé, the cover letter allows you to interact with the employer and gives the feel of physical interaction.

Most résumés only cover the essential highlights of your career achievements. Still, a cover letter is an opportunity for you as an engineer to vie for the position by addressing the employer personally and making a case for why you deserve the employment. Therefore, it should always go with your résumé, unless the hiring company specifically asks you not to include one.

Cover Letter Format and Layouts

Research has shown that we can convey about 7% of our message through physical interactions and only communicate most of our message through non-verbal interactions. Hence, you must maximize your cover letter as a medium to sell yourself to a potential employer as a competent engineer.  To keep your employer interested in your letter, the presentation of the cover letter is just as crucial as its wording.  In this way, you ensure that your letter fulfills all the rules of a formal business letter format and still gives an outstanding and unique description of your best qualities.

As an engineer, you must apply the following rules in your cover letter format:

• It would be best to keep a one-inch margin at the end of the document.
• You should align your work on both sides to improve ease of reading.
• Professional font styles such as Calibri, Ariel, and Times New Roman must be used.
• You can use a single line or 1.15 line spacing for a professional letter.
• There should be a blank space following each section that separates it from the next. These sections include your contact information, a greeting/salutation, significant paragraphs within the body of the letter, and then a closing/sign-off.
• You must save your documents as PDF files to prevent misalignment when opening the letter on devices other than Word applications.

Research the company. To further engage the potential employer, investigate the company‘s current projects and mention parts of these projects, that match your interests. This will earn their interest and improve your chances of earning employment. You can also state specific areas in ongoing projects within the company where your skills and experience can be helpful and how the company can benefit from employing you.

Writing a Cover Letter

The cover letter is a formal business document and therefore should follow a set pattern and contain significant points that employers look out for.

The following are steps for writing an excellent cover letter:

Provide a formal header

The header should have your name, address, contact information, date, the manager or employer’s name, and the name and address of the employing company. The formal header also includes greetings and a subject line.

Gerald Foster 011-980-3256 [email protected] Bruxal Lane, Laisy County

September 23, 20xx

Michael Lod Head Engineer, Daisy Mines & Engineers Ltd., 02 Street, Laisy County

Subject: Engineering cover letter

Introduce yourself and identify the job

The introduction determines how you can hold the employer’s interest. Hence, you have two to three lines to make an impression. You must set your letter apart from many other applicants by conveying aptitude and diligence in introducing yourself and the specific job you want to hold in that company.

I am writing this letter in response to the ad in today’s daily newspaper for the civil engineer position at Daisy Mines & Engineers Ltd., as I am interested in this position. Having held the position of Head Civil Engineer at Tom Field Engineering, I am confident that my skills and experience will benefit your company.

Mention your relevant skills and strengths

Talk about your skill set as an experienced engineer that makes you qualified for the vacant position, alongside positions that you have held in various past organizations. This will sell you to the potential employer as a driven, focused, and experienced engineer.

Also, if you recently graduated from college, you may not have sufficient experience. However, this does not limit you. You can expound on your experience during project and field attachments or internships and talk about the skill set and experience you garnered during these periods.

I led the Cout gold mine project in Cout. This enhanced my team management and leadership abilities and my ability to moderate and modify plans for the project. It has also improved my experience in task management and implementation

Explain why you want to work with this particular company

Employers often have many graduate engineers with beautiful curriculum vitae who need something refreshing and unique. Hence, in the cover letter, you must convince them of your interest in their company and the benefits that they would gain from having you as their employee. This requires background research about the company and its project’s vision and mission.

Engineering is a work field that amalgamates several parts of science, realistically defining imagination. Daisy Mines and Engineers Ltd. has shown this to be true for all facets of engineering. I want to be a part of this great movement and contribute all that I can to create new and clear paths in mining engineering, using this company as the platform for change.

Give details of your accomplishments and educational background

You must state the name of your school and the milestones of your education. In addition, it would be best to highlight the achievements during your studies or previous employment that are relevant to this job and state all additional workshops and training you had, such as additional degrees, industrial training, and workshops.

I acquired a Bachelor in Engineering from Michigan State University and obtained a Master’s degree and a doctorate in Mining Engineering from the Chicago School of Engineering. In addition, I have committed to a yearly refresher course in civil engineering and maintain a standard of diligence and knowledge.

Mention the attached documents

Most employers will ask for an attachment of the cover letter to curriculum vitae and other necessary documents. You must state that you have attached all documents to this letter and clearly state what documents you have attached.

I have attached all requested documents to this cover letter. These include my resume and recommendation letters from previous places of employment.

Write a call to action statement and sign off

The call to action should include your personal phone number and a request that the employing company call or contact you to arrange an interview. This is the final paragraph of the cover letter and, therefore, should convey enthusiasm and professionalism as you wrap up the letter without seeming rude or cold. However, remember that the end of your letter is just as important as the body, so you must take care to address the employer professionally and courteously.

Don’t hesitate to contact me at 011-980-3256 between 9 am and 7 pm to schedule an interview. I look forward to getting a pleasant response and hope to work for this esteemed organization soon.

Yours sincerely,

Gerald Foster

Engineering Cover Letter Template

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Today’s Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[Their Job Title, if known]

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

Subject: Application for [Specific Engineering Position, e.g., Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer] – [Your Full Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Specific Engineering Position] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job listing]. As a [Your Degree, e.g., Bachelor’s/Master’s in Civil/Mechanical Engineering] graduate from [Your University] with [number] years of experience in the [specific field, e.g., construction, automotive, manufacturing] industry, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise in [mention specific areas, e.g., structural analysis, product design, project management] to your team.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong aptitude for solving complex engineering problems, contributing to successful project completions, and driving innovation within my roles. At [Previous Employer], I was instrumental in [describe a significant project or achievement], which resulted in [mention the outcome, e.g., enhanced efficiency, cost savings, improved safety]. My hands-on experience with [mention specific tools/software, e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, MATLAB] has enabled me to deliver high-quality work efficiently.

What draws me to [Company Name] is your commitment to [mention what you admire about the company, e.g., cutting-edge technologies, sustainable engineering solutions, innovative product development]. I am particularly impressed by [specific project/initiative of the company], and I am eager to contribute to such impactful work. My background in [mention a relevant skill or area] aligns well with your needs, and I am confident that I can bring value to your team by [mention how you plan to contribute, e.g., enhancing design processes, optimizing project workflows].

I am known for my [mention key personal qualities or professional skills, e.g., analytical thinking, leadership, collaboration], which have been pivotal in managing projects efficiently and fostering teamwork. I am enthusiastic about the chance to leverage my skills at [Company Name] to contribute to your projects and help achieve your strategic goals.

Enclosed is my resume, which further outlines my achievements. I am excited about the chance to talk about how my experience, abilities, and passion meet [Company Name’s needs]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Thank you for considering my application. I am keen to bring my passion for engineering and my dedication to excellence to the [Company Name] team.

Sample Cover Letters for Engineers

Sample cover letter civil engineer.

Subject: Experienced Civil Engineer Seeking New Challenges

Dear Ms. Green,

I am writing to express my interest in the Civil Engineer position advertised on the ASCE Career Center, which caught my attention due to Greenway Infrastructure Solutions’ reputation for innovative and sustainable engineering projects. With over ten years of experience in the civil engineering field, specializing in urban infrastructure and water resource management, I am eager to bring my expertise in project management and design optimization to your esteemed team.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of leading diverse projects from conception through completion, demonstrating a strong capacity for solving complex engineering challenges, enhancing operational efficiencies, and achieving significant cost savings. Notably, while at Urban Engineering Innovates, I spearheaded the redesign of the City Central Water System, a project that not only improved the water efficiency for over 500,000 residents but also resulted in a 20% reduction in project costs due to innovative design solutions.

My professional journey has equipped me with a profound understanding of the intricacies of civil engineering, including, but not limited to, comprehensive site evaluations, detailed design development, and the integration of sustainable practices. I am particularly drawn to Greenway Infrastructure Solutions’ commitment to creating eco-friendly and community-centric infrastructure projects. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to such impactful work, aligning with my passion for advancing sustainable engineering solutions.

Key highlights from my career that I believe would benefit your team include:

• Successful management and delivery of multi-million-dollar infrastructure projects, ensuring completion on time and within budget.
• Expertise in the latest civil engineering software, including AutoCAD Civil 3D, Revit, and HEC-RAS, enhancing project visualization and design accuracy.
• A collaborative leadership style, fostering team cohesion and driving cross-functional teams towards shared project goals.

I am keen to further discuss how my background, skills, and passion for civil engineering can contribute to the innovative projects at Greenway Infrastructure Solutions. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at (503) 555-0198 or via email at [email protected]. Enclosed is my resume, which provides a detailed overview of my achievements.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and playing a key role in the success of future projects.

Alex Johnson

Sample Cover Letter Mechanical Engineer

Subject: Application for Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer Position

Dear Mr. Turner,

I am writing to express my interest in the Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer position at Innovative Solutions Inc., as advertised on your company website. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas Tech University, I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and passion for mechanical design and analysis to real-world applications.

During my academic career, I had the opportunity to engage in a comprehensive project focused on the design and optimization of a solar-powered water purification system. This project not only honed my skills in CAD software like SolidWorks and AutoCAD but also taught me the importance of sustainable engineering solutions. My role involved conducting detailed design analyses, simulating fluid dynamics, and collaborating with a team to refine our prototype, which ultimately received recognition at the university’s engineering showcase.

I have also completed an internship with MechTech Solutions, where I gained hands-on experience in product testing, data collection, and analysis. This experience provided me with a solid foundation in the practical aspects of mechanical engineering, including troubleshooting mechanical issues, improving product designs for efficiency, and working closely with senior engineers to implement innovative solutions.

What excites me about the opportunity at Innovative Solutions Inc. is your commitment to pushing the boundaries of engineering to develop cutting-edge products. I am particularly impressed by your recent launch of the EcoDrive engine system, which aligns with my interest in sustainable engineering and innovation. I am keen to contribute to such projects that challenge conventional design limits and drive technological advancement.

I am confident that my academic background, coupled with my internship experience, has equipped me with the skills necessary to make a meaningful contribution to your team. I am particularly adept at:

• Utilizing mechanical design software to create and analyze designs.
• Conducting research and applying engineering principles to solve complex problems.
• Collaborating effectively with team members to achieve project goals.

I am enthusiastic about the chance to bring my unique skills to Innovative Solutions Inc. as an Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be reached at (555) 678-1234 or via email at [email protected]. Enclosed is my resume, which provides further detail on my accomplishments and skills.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the innovative projects at Innovative Solutions Inc.

Elena Martinez

Both cover letters effectively introduce the candidates and convey their enthusiasm for the respective positions. They start with a professional greeting and clearly state the position they are applying for. Both candidates demonstrate their understanding of the company’s values and projects, showing that they have done their research. They highlight their relevant qualifications and experiences, showcasing specific achievements to support their claims.

Additionally, both candidates emphasize their alignment with the company’s goals and values, indicating their enthusiasm for contributing to the organization’s success. They provide concrete examples of their skills and accomplishments, such as project management, design optimization, and proficiency in relevant software. Moreover, they both express their eagerness to discuss further and provide their contact information for convenience.

Overall, both cover letters effectively present the candidates as qualified professionals who are passionate about their respective fields and eager to contribute to the success of the companies they are applying to. They strike a balance between showcasing their skills and experiences while also demonstrating their understanding of and alignment with the company’s mission and objectives.

Essential Tips to Stand Out

The trick is to capture and maintain the employer’s interest throughout your letter. To do this, you must create an appealing yet professional cover letter. To draft an excellent cover letter, you must ensure to do the following:

Emphasize attention to detail

Companies are always keen on employing people who are so ardent that they recognize little details in the construction and needs of society. Hence, as part of your skills, you must emphasize and show that you are keen on detailed work.

Be specific

This shows the employer that you know exactly what you want and that you were diligent enough to perform a background check on the employing company. This improves your chances of getting the job by almost 50%. Always write out the specific position for which you are applying and the roles you can fill in the ongoing company projects.

Proofread the letter

An engineering cover letter is a letter that represents you and gives the employer a first impression of who you are. Therefore, it must be void of errors and have the proper sentences and technical terms. You must proofread the letter as many times as it takes to get it to a state of perfection.

Things to Avoid Including in the Letter

You must not include the following:

• Including interests or projects that are not relevant to the position you are applying for is not a sensible act. This will add to the bulk of the letter without being of interest to the potential employer
• You must avoid repeating all that is in your curriculum vitae. This will be a total waste of time because it should complement the resume and not duplicate it.
• You should not recall negative experiences in your cover letter. The employer aims to recruit the best employees, not those with sob stories. Hence, you must be professional and enthusiastic in your voice as a potential employee.
• You must also avoid making negative comments about your former superiors on the cover letter.
• Never show unprofessional excitement about the job to not come off as desperate, but enthusiasm is always welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

A cover letter summarizes your professional skills and experiences that are beneficial to the job position you are seeking to hold. Therefore, most cover letters do not exceed 400 words or one page.

In general, you may only include skills necessary to the job, such as design software, analytical and mapping software skills, and soft skills such as initiative, people management, attention to detail, communication skills, teamwork, project management skills, and critical thinking skills.

Yes. Most businesses are faced with a large pool of overqualified engineers vying for available positions. However, a cover letter allows you to sell yourself and state your case as the company’s best option for that position. Therefore, as much as it depends on you, always provide a cover letter alongside other credentials when applying for a job.

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Engineer   Cover Letter

Engineer cover letter (with examples).

If you’re applying for a reputable engineering position, the chances are that you’ll be competing against a crowd of other qualified candidates.

In these cases, it’s not enough to just attach an impressive resume . If you want to truly maximize your chances of getting the job interview, you’ll need to include a well-written cover letter as well.

Cover letters allow you to go beyond just the brief overview of your abilities that your resume provides. They’re a great tool for tailoring your technical qualifications specifically to the job in question and leaving a strong impression on hiring managers .

In this article, we’ll discuss the core structure that all effective engineering cover letters follow. We’ll also provide you with free samples and important tips to help you write your own.

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Parts of an Engineering Cover Letter

No matter what type of engineering position you’re applying for, all effective cover letters include the same key elements and follow a similar core structure.

These components are:

The header. Include your contact info as well as the company’s info. You should also use a professional greeting , such as “Dear [Hiring manager ’s name],”

If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name , use “Dear Hiring Committee,”

Opening paragraph. Focus on achievements that directly relate to the position's duties. Minimize filler and grab the reader ’s attention as quickly as possible.

Body paragraph #1. Emphasize your key skills while conveying confidence and passion.

Body paragraph #2. Highlight additional, relevant key skills that fit the job description.

Closing. Thank the reader for their time and make a results-based offer.

Engineering Cover Letter Opening

“David Smith 2321 Anchor St Bloomington, IN 48363 555-333-2222 [email protected] June 12, 2021 Frank Goldsberg 4421 Rockwell Ave Charleston, SC 23212 323-999-1122 [email protected] Dear Frank Goldsberg, I am excited to be applying for the mechanical engineer position at Aerotech. During my previous position at Boeing, I led interdisciplinary teams that included both technical and non-technical professionals. Using effective communication skills, I ensured that both stakeholders and team members understood all relevant project requirements, resulting in 21% faster delivery times. Here are some other results that I’ve generated for past employers: At Boeing, implemented new testing methodologies that decreased the beta testing phase by 17% At Booz Allen Hamilton, improved project CAD designs to cut costs by 9%. At PG, cut project costs by 4% by redesigning mechanical fixtures. “

The opening paragraph is the most important section of your cover letter.

Most surveyed hiring managers say that they only spend an average of 60 seconds reading over a candidate’s application. This means that if you want to make a positive impression, you have to do it at the very start.

Establish your credibility immediately by providing an example of when you’ve proven your ability to generate positive results for a past employer.

Especially for engineering positions , it’s critical to quantify your achievements when possible. Vaguely describing how you’ve improved a company’s processes is never going to leave as strong an impression as providing actual metrics such as percentage increases or dollars saved.

Once you’ve caught the hiring manager’s attention, follow up with more achievements to hammer in your credibility. These should be short and memorable, no longer than a single sentence.

If an existing employee of the company referred you for the position , then you should also mention it at the start of your opening paragraph.

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Engineering cover letter body paragraph #1.

“With my 12 years of experience as a mechanical engineer , I’m confident that I can replicate these results at Aerotech. In addition to my M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Brown University, I also hold AutoCAD and SolidWorks certifications. ”

The job of the opening paragraph was to tout your achievements and grab the recruiter ’s attention.

With the first body paragraph, it’s now time to explicitly describe your technical skills and qualifications.

Make sure that you tailor this section specifically to the job listing in question. Whatever main qualifications and skill requirements are mentioned at the top of the listing, include them here.

You don’t actually need to mention your university degree if this isn’t an entry-level position . However, if you went to an impressive school, the wow-factor definitely makes including it as a one-liner well worth it.

Engineering Cover Letter Body Paragraph #2

“During my two years as a mechanical engineer at Lockheed Martin, I modeled over 50 components in Siemens-NX that surpassed our clients’ technical specifications by over 10% and made it to final production. I believe this experience makes the perfect candidate drive for your organization’s current initiative to develop the generation of vacuum engines. I’ve been watching the project with extreme interest, and I know there isn't another one anywhere that I would rather contribute my abilities to. ”

Note how this sample body paragraph does the following:

Aligns your skills to the needs of the company. In our sample, we’re assuming that the job listing mentions work relating to drafting components for vacuum engines, so that’s the specific topic we’re targeting.

It’s especially important to directly link your skills to the job listing since not all recruiters will be engineers themselves, but rather HR employees are given lists of skills and keywords to look for in applications.

This means that even if your engineering experience is transferable to the duties of the job, the recruiter may think they’re unrelated since you never explicitly drew the direct link.

Convey your passion and personality. When applying for engineering job vacancies, you’re likely going to be competing against a crowd of other similarly qualified candidates.

Unless your achievements and abilities are truly exceptional, you need to convey your personality in order to stand out.

Examine how our sample communicates the following:

You cared enough to research the company’s activities.

You’re genuinely interested and driven.

While your achievements and skills may grab the recruiter’s attention and get your foot in the door, it’s how well you can stand out as a confident individual that will truly make you stand out from the crowd.

Engineering Cover Letter Closing

“Working at Aerotech demands the technical abilities and drive that I have proven through my long industry track record. I look forward to further discussing with you how I can add significant value to the team. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best Regards, David Smith.”

It’s important to get the closing paragraph of your cover letter just right, as it’s your last chance to leave a strong impression on the hiring manager.

This section needs to accomplish the following:

Sums up your cover letter. The first line of our sample reminds the reader of all the technical achievements we’ve mentioned throughout our cover letter, which leaves them as a final thought in their head.

Invites the recruiter to follow up. Make sure to always mention that you’re enthusiastic and available for further discussion.

Thanks the reader for their time. It’s a standard professional practice to add a brief line to show your appreciation .

Engineering Cover Letter Sample

Here is a complete version of the engineering cover letter we’ve covered so far:

“David Smith 2321 Anchor St Bloomington, IN 48363 555-333-2222 [email protected] June 12, 2021 Frank Goldsberg 4421 Rockwell Ave Charleston, SC 23212 323-999-1122 [email protected] Dear Frank Goldsberg, I am excited to be applying for the mechanical engineer position at Aerotech. During my previous position at Boeing, I led interdisciplinary teams that included both technical and non-technical professionals. Using effective communication skills , I ensured that both stakeholders and team members understood all relevant project requirements, resulting in 21% faster delivery times. Here are some other results that I’ve generated for past employers: At Boeing, implemented new testing methodologies that decreased the beta testing phase by 17% At Booz Allen Hamilton, improved project CAD designs to cut costs by 9%. At PG, cut project costs by 4% by redesigning mechanical fixtures. With my 12 years of experience as a mechanical engineer, I’m confident that I can replicate these results at Aerotech. In addition to my M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Brown University, I also hold AutoCAD and SolidWorks certifications. During my two years as a mechanical engineer at Lockheed Martin, I modeled over 50 components in Siemens-NX that surpassed our clients’ technical specifications by over 10% and made it to the final production. I believe this experience makes the perfect candidate drive for your organization’s current initiative and to develop the generation of vacuum engines. I’ve been watching the project with extreme interest, and I know there isn't another one anywhere that I would rather contribute my abilities to. Working at Aerotech demands the technical abilities and drive that I have proven through my long industry track record. I look forward to further discussing with you how I can add significant value to the team. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best Regards, David Smith.”

Important Engineering Cover Letter Tips

Here are some additional guidelines to keep in mind when you’re writing a cover letter for an engineering position:

Use figures and percentages. The average recruiter will spend less than 30 seconds reading over your cover letter. In most cases, they’ll skim over many of the words.

Numbers help combat this issue, as they’ll stand out on the page and draw the recruiter’s attention towards important sections of your cover letter.

Make sure that you’re always using them when speaking about your achievements and work history.

For example, saying “I improved X process by Y%” is much more effective than saying “I drastically improved X process.”

Try to convey soft skills. Demonstrating your technical qualifications is obviously important for an engineering-focused position.

However, if you’re able to brand yourself as an engineer who isn’t just a technical expert but also an effective communicator and team player, you’ll instantly set yourself ahead of any candidate who’s only focusing on their technical abilities.

Use keywords. Companies often use applicant tracking software to automatically filter and rank candidate applications based on how many keywords they include.

Many hiring managers are also instructed to pay attention to how frequently candidates mention certain technologies and skills throughout their resumes and cover letters.

For these reasons, make sure that you pay attention to important skills and terms in the job listing and explicitly mention them in your cover letter.

This definitely doesn’t mean that you should just overload your cover letter with buzzwords. A human ultimately still needs to read it, and it’ll be obvious if you’re trying to resort to cheap tactics.

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets You a Job Interview

Learn to avoid the biggest mistake job seekers make and write a cover letter that truly makes an impact.

Customers Interviewed by:

Most job seekers don’t know how to write a proper cover letter. They believe a cover letter is just a “here is my resume” note. This is a wasted opportunity!

In this article, you’ll discover the secret to writing a professional cover letter that’s truly effective. It’s not hard to do and will give you a significant edge over the competition. We’ll walk you through the process in a few straightforward steps and provide examples to help you along the way.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive in and create a cover letter that opens doors to your next opportunity.

What is a cover letter and do you really need one?

A cover letter is a short document (around 300 words) that accompanies your resume. Your cover letter should not simply repeat what your resume says . Instead, it should complement your resume, highlight your personality, and potentially address any weaknesses that could otherwise prevent you from getting an interview.

But do you really need a cover letter in 2024? The short answer is YES.

“Over 80% of hiring managers read a cover letter and 60% of applications require one as part of the application,” says career coach Madelyn Mackie . “Even hiring managers and recruiters who say they never read cover letters may find themselves drawn in by a particularly compelling letter.”

In fact, Jobscan analyzed nearly 1 million job applications and found that including a cover letter with your resume makes you 1.9 times more likely to be invited for an interview compared to those who left out a cover letter.

What’s the biggest cover letter mistake?

The biggest mistake job seekers make when writing their cover letter is to focus only on themselves .

“It’s not about you,” says career coach Susan Schwartz . “It’s about what you can do for them. Talking to them about what they care about—not about what you want—is what’s going to make them want to read your letter. And to hire you!”

According to Schwartz, this is the best way to write a cover letter:

Paragraph 1. A single sentence (maximum two) stating the PROBLEM that the company faces. What is the issue/need/opportunity that this role will address?

Paragraph 2. what solution do you offer how are you the answer to their need again, keep it to a sentence or two., paragraph 3. explanation: what experience do you have that supports your assertion that you can help this paragraph can be 3-4 sentences, but keep it short., paragraph 4. call to action: suggest next steps. not “thank you” but let’s plan to discuss this next week..

Since hiring managers often spend less than 20 seconds on an application, your cover letter needs to grab their attention and get them to look at your resume. By highlighting how your experience matches the job, you make it easier for them to see you as a great fit for the role.

Now let’s examine each of these steps in more detail.

How to write a strong cover letter step-by-step

Now that you know the basics of what to include in your cover letter, let’s go through the process from start to finish to see how you can write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

1. Do your research

Before writing your cover letter, research the company to understand its current challenges and goals. Visit the company website, read their latest news and press releases, and follow their social media channels.

Don’t skip this step! It’s crucial for writing a cover letter that truly resonates with a potential employer and sets you apart from other candidates.

After you’ve researched the company, carefully read the job description. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What specific problems or challenges is this role designed to address?
• How do my skills and experiences align with the job requirements?
• Am I a good fit for the role?
• What unique value can I bring to the company in this role?
• Are there any keywords or phrases that I should incorporate into my cover letter?

After researching the company and the role, you’re ready to start writing your cover letter.

2. Write your opening paragraphs

Many job seekers make the mistake of being too wordy in their cover letters. You’re not writing a novel. Use short words in short sentences. Remember, a hiring manager is going to quickly scan your application, so you need to get right to the point.

Here are some examples of how to start a cover letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I’ve noticed that NexGen is working hard to stand out in a crowded digital market, and keeping your brand top-of-mind for customers can be tough.

That’s where I come in—I specialize in creating engaging content and smart SEO strategies that boost online presence and drive customer engagement.

I understand that Weissman is seeking to maintain its innovative edge in the dancewear industry while consistently meeting sales and margin targets.

I am confident that my experience and passion for design can help Weissman continue to create stunning, market-leading dancewear.

I understand that Timmons Company needs motivated individuals to manage sales territories and boost product visibility in retail grocery stores around Quincy, IL.

I am excited to bring my self-motivation and sales-oriented mindset to your team, ensuring your products not only maintain their shelf presence but also thrive.

3. Prove you can do the job

Now you need to provide evidence that you’re the right person for the job. The best way to do this is to highlight your relevant experience and achievements. Here are some things you should focus on:

• Specific Accomplishments : Share examples of your successes, such as increasing sales, leading projects, or improving processes.
• Relevant Skills : Highlight the skills that match the job requirements, like planning, organizing, technical proficiencies, or specific industry experience.
• Problem-Solving : Discuss times when you successfully tackled challenges, such as resolving issues, managing conflicts, or implementing solutions.
• Industry Knowledge : Demonstrate your understanding of the field and awareness of current trends and standards.
• Team Collaboration : Mention how you’ve effectively worked in teams, mentored others, or collaborated across departments.

Remember to keep it concise. Your letter isn’t meant to tell your whole story; it’s about making a compelling case that you understand the key aspects of the job.

Your goal is to leave the reader eager to learn more about you. Here are some examples:

“Over the past five years, I’ve led digital marketing campaigns that ramped up organic traffic by 40% and bumped up conversion rates by 25%. I’ve worked with diverse teams to create compelling content that resonates with audiences and used data analytics to refine strategies for maximum impact. My experience with social media management and email marketing also ensures a holistic approach to your digital marketing needs.”

“With over ten years in apparel design, specializing in activewear and dancewear, I have a proven track record of developing designs that resonate with customers and drive sales. My expertise includes conducting global trend research, selecting inspiring materials, and leading teams to transform creative concepts into market-ready products. I am proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and have experience with CLO3D, ensuring that my designs are both innovative and technically sound. My leadership skills have been honed by mentoring junior designers and managing cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative and efficient design process.”

“With several years of experience in CPG retail sales and merchandising, I have successfully managed sales territories, maintained product placements, and executed promotional strategies. My ability to plan and organize, combined with proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with iPads, positions me well to contribute effectively to your sales team. I am adept at thinking on my feet and delivering results in dynamic environments, ensuring that products are always tagged, rotated, and optimally displayed.”

4. Conclude with a call to action

When wrapping up your cover letter, it’s crucial to include a strong call to action in your closing paragraph. This isn’t just about expressing gratitude—it’s about setting the stage for the next steps in the hiring process.

Instead of a simple “thank you,” aim to propose a specific plan, such as scheduling a meeting or a call to discuss how you can contribute to the company.

Here are some examples of how to end a cover letter :

“Let’s discuss how I can help NexGen Creative Agency achieve its sales goals next week. Please let me know your availability for a meeting.”

“How about we chat next week about how I can help Weissman shine even brighter? Let me know when you’re free.”

“Let’s plan to discuss how my self-motivation and sales-oriented mindset can boost product visibility for Timmons Company next week. Please let me know your availability for a meeting.”

There is no need to add anything more. Time is valuable, so hiring managers won’t spend it on a cover letter that isn’t concise and to the point.

Expert tips for writing a cover letter

We’ve gone over the basics of how to write a good cover letter. Here are some expert tips for formatting and how to make your cover letter even better.

Format your contact information correctly

Before diving into the content of your cover letter, it’s important to format the contact details and header correctly. You’ll need to include your name, full address, phone number, and email address.

Here’s an example:

Personalize your greeting

To whom should you address your cover letter to? “For maximum impact, see if you can find the hiring manager or recruiter for the role, and send your letter to them,” says career coach Susan Schwarz . “Addressing your letter to a specific person will significantly increase the likelihood of someone reading it.”

Check the company’s website or LinkedIn profile to find the name of the hiring manager. However, if you can’t find a specific name, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.

To end a cover letter, you can use “best regards” or “kind regards” followed by your full name.

Show your personality

While it’s important to maintain a professional tone in your cover letter, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. But remember, you don’t want to overdo it—keep it concise and relevant .

Here are some ways to show your personality in your cover letter:

• Briefly mention a specific project or experience you enjoyed.
• Highlight a distinctive skill or trait that sets you apart.
• Talk about how your values align with the company’s mission or culture.
• Describe a unique volunteer experience.

Emphasize your adaptability

According to LinkedIn , the top “skill of the moment” is adaptability . This means being open to new ideas, ready to pivot when needed, and always looking for ways to improve. In a world where the only constant is change, being adaptable can set you apart.

Here’s an example of how to incorporate adaptability into your cover letter:

“In my previous role as a CPG retail sales merchandiser, I consistently demonstrated my ability to adjust to changing market conditions, customer preferences, and sales strategies. This adaptability allowed me to increase sales by 25% in a highly competitive market.”

Show enthusiasm

Research shows that 40% of employers would not hire a candidate if they lacked enthusiasm. Remember, you’re much more attractive to employers when you’re on fire .

Here’s an example of how to show enthusiasm for the company you’re applying to:

“I’ve long admired Weissman’s commitment to the dance community and the artistry of your costumes. Your dedication to empowering performances and celebrating creativity is inspiring, and I’m excited about the opportunity to join your passionate team.”

Balance professionalism with friendliness

Try to strike a balance between a professional and friendly tone. Don’t use overly formal language, but make sure your writing is polished and error-free. Use humor sparingly, as it can be easily misinterpreted.

This approach helps you come across as both competent and personable, making you an ideal candidate.

Cover letter do’s and don’ts

• Do personalize . Address your cover letter to a specific person whenever possible.
• Do be concise . Keep your cover letter to one page.
• Do show enthusiasm . Mention specific reasons why you want to work there.
• Do include measurable accomplishments . These are achievements that can be quantified , such as increasing sales by a percentage.
• Do show your personality . Share brief anecdotes or unique experiences relevant to the job.
• Do be professional yet friendly . Avoid overly formal language.
• Do proofread your cover letter. A single mistake can damage your chances of getting an interview.
• Do include a call to action. Suggest scheduling a meeting or a call.
• Don’t be too formal . Strike a balance between professionalism and friendliness.
• Don’t overuse humor . Humor can be easily misinterpreted or come off as unprofessional.
• Don’t repeat your resume . Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it.
• Don’t include irrelevant information. Focus only on what’s most relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Don’t use clichés . Phrases like “I am a hard worker” or “I think outside the box” are overused and add little value.
• Don’t make excuses . Avoid explaining gaps in employment or other potential negatives.
• Don’t forget to tailor each letter . Customizing each cover letter will help it pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Cover letter examples

Here are a few cover letter examples that show how to highlight your skills, show your personality, and match your experiences with the job.

Cover letter example for someone with no work experience

Starting your career can be challenging, especially when you don’t have much experience to showcase. But don’t worry—a well-written cover letter can highlight your strengths and potential.

• Addresses the company’s needs : The letter begins by acknowledging the challenges the company faces, demonstrating an understanding of the industry and the company’s needs.
• Offers a solution : The candidate clearly states how they can provide value by offering a fresh perspective and innovative ideas.
• Highlights relevant experience : Even with limited work experience, the letter mentions a successful internship project that aligns with the job’s requirements.
• Shows enthusiasm and passion : The mention of a passion for sustainability and eagerness to contribute to the company’s efforts showcases the candidate’s genuine interest.
• Proposes next steps : The call to action is clear and professional, suggesting a meeting to discuss how the candidate can contribute, which shows initiative and confidence.

Cover letter example for someone changing careers

Changing careers can be a bold and exciting move, especially when you have a strong foundation of transferable skills. The following example of a cover letter demonstrates how to effectively highlight your previous experience and enthusiasm for a new industry.

• Engaging opening : Starts with a bold question that captures attention and sets the tone for the rest of the letter.
• Clear value proposition : Quickly establishes how the candidate’s project management skills can benefit the finance industry.
• Relevant experience : Highlights a specific project that showcases the candidate’s ability to improve efficiency and manage complex tasks.
• Expresses enthusiasm : Shows genuine excitement about the career change and the specific company.
• Call to action : Concludes with a clear and confident call to action, suggesting a meeting to discuss how the candidate can contribute to the company’s success.

Cover letter example for someone re-entering the workforce

Re-entering the workforce after a significant break can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase your resilience and the valuable skills you’ve developed during your time away.

The following cover letter example demonstrates how to effectively address employment gaps while highlighting your strengths and enthusiasm for the role.

• Strong opening statement : The cover letter begins with a compelling statement about the importance of adaptability and innovation, setting a positive and forward-thinking tone.
• Addresses employment gap : It acknowledges the employment gap upfront, providing context without dwelling on it, which demonstrates honesty and transparency.
• Highlights relevant experience : The letter emphasizes past accomplishments and specific projects, showcasing the candidate’s skills and ability to deliver results.
• Shows enthusiasm for the role : The candidate expresses excitement about re-entering the workforce and aligns their values with the company’s mission.
• Proposes next steps : It ends with a clear call to action, suggesting a meeting to discuss how the candidate can contribute to the company’s success.

Generate a perfectly crafted cover letter in seconds

If you’re still having trouble writing your cover letter, try Jobscan’s AI cover letter generator . It analyzes both your resume and the job ad to create a completely original cover letter customized for the job you’re applying for.

To learn more about how the cover letter generator works, watch this brief video:

You can try Jobscan’s cover letter generator for free below:

Key takeaways

Follow these key takeaways to write a compelling cover letter that sets you apart from other candidates and opens doors to new career opportunities.

• Write with the employer’s needs in mind. Explain how you can address their specific challenges and contribute to their goals.
• Keep it brief . Use short sentences and paragraphs to make it easy for hiring managers to scan quickly.
• Address your letter to a specific person . If you can’t find a name, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.
• Showcase your relevant experience. Use specific examples to demonstrate your abilities.
• Inject your personality. Share brief anecdotes or unique experiences relevant to the job.
• End with a strong call to action . Suggest a meeting or a call to discuss how you can contribute to the company’s success.
• Proofread your letter. A single error can torpedo your chances at getting an interview.
• Show enthusiasm. Showing excitement and a willingness to learn can make you a more attractive candidate.

A cover letter should be one page long, consisting of three to four paragraphs. The total word count should be around 250-400 words.

When you don’t have a specific name, you can use “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern,” as it is considered old-fashioned.

When emailing a cover letter, use a clear subject line like “Application for Content Developer – [Your Name].” Paste your cover letter into the email body. Attach your resume.

Yes, a cover letter is necessary because first impressions are important. By highlighting your qualifications and showing enthusiasm for the role, you can gain an advantage over someone who doesn’t send one.

Employers look for personalization in a cover letter, showing that it’s tailored to the specific job and company. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job requirements. Include specific achievements that demonstrate your capabilities and contributions.

Yes. Providing specific examples of your achievements helps demonstrate your skills and qualifications, making your application more compelling to employers.

A cover letter starts with your contact information, first and last name, the date, and the employer’s details. Begin with an introduction about your suitability for the role. Include a brief section highlighting relevant experience and skills with examples. Conclude by asking for an interview.

The primary goals of a simple cover letter are to get someone to read your resume and ultimately offer you a job interview. It also shows you have good communication skills, which are highly valuable in today’s workforce.

The opening sentence should state the problem the company faces or pose a thought-provoking question to grab the hiring manager’s attention.

Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

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