How to List Engineering Skills on a Resume: Best Skills and Examples

Quick Navigation:


Engineering is divided into several different branches, each requiring a distinct set of skills. Both technical and soft skills are an essential addition to your engineering resume. In this article, find out which engineering skills you should include on your resume and how to list them effectively.

Why employers want to see engineering skills on your resume

Engineers operate in various industries, and employers want to select candidates with distinct skills that are relevant to their specific industry. Given that engineers are creative problem-solvers, they must have the technical skills to succeed in these types of innovative roles. Engineers must also be able to demonstrate the interpersonal skills, or soft skills, that employers are seeking such as communication and leadership.

How to list engineering skills on a resume

Follow these steps to list engineering skills on your resume:

1. First, review the job posting 

Each skill that you add to your resume must be custom-tailored to the specific needs of the engineering field you are applying for. Take your time to carefully read the job posting, then list your applicable skills that are relevant to the job. 

2. Second, make a list of your strongest skills

Write a list of the various skills that you have acquired. Compare this list with the job requirements. By doing this step, you will be able to decide which skills you are going to include in your skills list and work experience section. You should also be able to see where they intersect with the specific job requirements. 

3. Next, highlight specific examples of your engineering skills in your work experience

If you have a particular skill that is relevant to the job, support it with a suitable example. For example, describe an instance in which you used your data modeling skills in a previous role. 

4. Last, organize your skills to make them easier to read

This is achievable through the use of logically organized bullet points. Use a clear, easy-to-read format to list the skills you choose. It is usually best to list skills in a one- or two-column format on a resume. 

Best engineering skills to add to a resume

Here is a list of the best engineering skills to add to your resume: 

  • Statistics and probability skills. Closely intertwined abilities with machine-learning logarithms, which are applicable in removing data uncertainties
  • System design skills. Ability to understand how smaller components can fit into larger systems of services and products
  • Data modeling skills. Ability to estimate the underlying structures of datasets to identify useful patterns
  • Computer science fundamentals. Ability to show familiarity with logarithms, computer memory manipulation and data structures 
  • Giving and receiving feedback. Ability to provide kind, actionable and honest feedback when working with teams as well as being able to listen attentively for feedback from other members of the team
  • Attention to detail. Ability to consider a myriad of details from the problem-solving and concept stages to the testing and modeling phases, and ensuring that nothing critical gets lost in the process
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Ability to approach every problem and task with a calm and analytical mind, and being able to solve all aspects of issues at reduced risk levels
  • Desire to learn. Staying updated on industry trends while absorbing new technologies 
  • Excellent communication skills. Ability to give instructions to members of the team, and being able to explain various concepts to managers and clients clearly and concisely 
  • Management and leadership skills. Ability to take on responsibilities and lead a team by knowing when to mentor, how to use the strengths of a team member, and how to recognize other people’s skills

Having the most appealing skills on your resume will make your application an attention grabber, thus putting you at a competitive advantage. 

How to improve engineering skills

Here are a few steps you can take to improve your engineering skills:

1. First, attend several training sessions

The best way to build your knowledge and skills is by attending training sessions. Such training enables you to refresh your current skills while also developing new ones. Learning new skills can make you a dependable employee who is dedicated to keeping up with industry trends. 

2. Second, ask plenty of questions

If you don’t understand something, the best thing you can do is ask for help. You can be resourceful and research on your own or ask coworkers directly. 

3. Third, learn things by doing them

The best approach for new engineers may be hands-on learning. You could ask to collaborate on some ongoing projects in order to gain some new experience at work. Depending on your field of interest, you could join a club or organization to develop your technical skills or teamwork abilities.

4. Fourth, embrace changing technology

Engineering is never a static field. There are always rapid changes in technologies and, as an engineer, you must be ready and willing to take up the changes as they come. This way, you will remain flexible and prepared to learn the best approaches to give to any situation, thus improving your efficiency and work output.

Improving your engineering skills will enable you to increase your work efficiency. It is also one way of preparing yourself to advance your career.