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 an engineer, how do you land the job that’s right for you?
Your starting place is an outstanding resume and cover letter that are well-written and correctly formatted. A provocative cover letter that makes a personal appeal to a hiring manager will set you apart.
Engineering full text-only cover letter example
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
Sections of an engineering cover letter
It’s easiest to present your arguments and tell your story when you follow a logical cover letter format. Your engineering cover letter should contain the following elements:
- Cover letter header. Include your name, phone number, and email address.
- Greeting. Make a personal connection by addressing your letter to the right hiring authority. If you can’t determine who that is, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.
- Introduction. Set the scene by introducing yourself and what you bring to the table.
- Body. Delve into the specifics of your engineering expertise and skill set to build a strong foundation for your candidacy.
- Conclusion. Sum up your qualifications and reiterate your interest in the role. Don’t forget to thank the reader for their consideration.
- Signature. Sign off with a professional farewell and sign your name.
Each section has its own purpose, coming together to form a cohesive narrative.
Aim for a one page that shows your personality, expertise, and knowledge.
Need more inspiration? View our other related cover letter examples:
Once you’ve added your header and addressed the hiring manager, it’s time to get started on your introduction.
Introduction of an engineering cover letter
Open your letter with a paragraph that makes your reader sit up and take note of your achievements.
Use bold, energetic language and a confident tone to entice the reader and set the stage for the rest of your letter.
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.
Hello, my name is Leslie and I’m seeking a position in engineering. I have extensive experience and am very interested in your company.
Rather than a basic introduction that rephrases your resume, choose an example or story that packs a punch. Did you design a top product or improve any processes? The more specific, the better.
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.
Engineering cover letter body
The body of your cover letter should follow a clear template for maximum impact:
- Flesh out your work experience, qualifications, and achievements
- Show how you're a perfect fit for the company’s culture
- Close with a conclusion that leaves them wanting to reach out
- Sign off with a call to action
First body paragraph: your suitability for the role (skills & experience)
Start off by showcasing how you’re an outstanding candidate for the job by focusing on the following:
- Highlight your education. Mention your education, certifications, or any special engineering training. Make it clear how your education aligns with the job; for instance, if you have a degree in mechanical engineering or electrical engineering, call that out.
- Emphasize your engineering experience. Use the STAR method—“Situation, Task, Action, Result”—to describe engineering challenges you’ve faced, how you addressed them, and what you achieved. Use facts and figures wherever possible.
- Show your technology chops. Describe your expertise with relevant technologies. You might mention your experience using CAD software, specific programming languages, simulation tools, etc.
- Detail your knowledge of industry regulations. Mention your fluency in various standards, codes, and regulations.
- Prove your project management abilities. Show how you’ve led projects: budgeting, planning, scoping, and more.
- Describe how you collaborate. Make it clear how you work within a team, and if you happen to have leadership experience, describe that as well.
Second body paragraph(s): alignment with the organization
Your cover letter explains why you’re able to do the job—it should also show why you want the job.
Tailor your letter to the company’s culture and mission; do some research, then show how your own values and experiences align with theirs.
In this example of Engineero, their website states they focus on:
- Being pioneers in the engineering industry
- A customer-focused approach
- Looking to the future
- Innovation and a human touch
Discuss how these resonate with you and make you excited to work with the company.
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.
Call to action & conclusion: Finish off strong
Wrap up your letter by providing a compelling final statement on your qualifications. Encourage the reader to act on your letter: scheduling an interview, talking on the phone, or at least sending a reply.
Thank the reader for their time and consideration. Not only is this kind, it also lets you reiterate your interest and excitement.
Close with a professional sign-off and your name.
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
How to write an engineering cover letter with no experience
Without experience, how can you make sure your cover letter wows the reader?
Remember that engineers are in demand. Focus on your academic achievements, student projects you completed, and your drive to be a great engineer. Consider these points:
- Highlight transferable skills. Maybe you have project management experience, for example, even if it’s not related to engineering.
- Emphasize technical proficiency. Perhaps you’ve worked with coding languages or engineering software, even if you haven’t held an engineer position.
- Showcase your academic achievements. In addition to your engineering degree(s), show off past projects, involvement in engineering clubs, coursework, or lab experience.
- Include internships. Note any engineering internships you've completed. Try to land an internship if you don’t already have one.
- Document personal projects. If your area of engineering is one that lends itself to personal projects (such as software engineering), make note of these.
- Show your passion for engineering. Even without direct experience, chances are you’re strongly interested in the engineering field. After all, you wouldn’t be applying otherwise! Illustrate your passion for the industry.
Consider ATS
An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software used by companies to collect, track, and manage applications. If you submit an application online, chances are you’re using an ATS.
Some advanced ATS tools use algorithms to scan and rank applications based on keywords that match the job posting. To give yourself the best chance of success, note the important terms in the job posting and include them in your cover letter.
Example:
- “Engineering”
- “CAD software”
- “Master’s degree”
Key takeaways
A well-written engineering cover letter displays your skills, expertise, and passion for the industry. Use this letter to show off your engineering strengths and experience; if you lack direct experience, focus on your passion, education, and transferable skills.
Increase your success by using a professionally designed template from our cover letter generator , which takes care of the hard part for you so you can focus on landing the job.
