engineer cover letter example

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Engineering Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2023

How to craft a jaw-dropping engineering cover letter

The engineering industry covers a wide range of different positions including aerospace, chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and quality engineering. To earn a position in this field, you need a cover letter that highlights your area of expertise, as well as your most relevant skills, accomplishments, and qualifications.

In this guide, we will cover the 5 essential elements that any engineering cover letter should have. Keep reading to learn all about:

• Creating an effective engineering cover letter header & headline
• Personalizing the greeting & content of your engineering cover letter
• Writing an attention-grabbing engineering cover letter introduction
• Showcasing your skills & accomplishments in engineering
• Finishing your engineering cover letter with a strong closing statement

1. 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 is an example of a well-formatted header on an engineering cover letter

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

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.

To write such a headline, you should always use a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word, a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise.

Here is an example of an effective engineering headline, followed by a breakdown of its key components

Looking for the Perfect Engineer? Here are 3 Reasons I Would Make an Excellent Addition to Your Team

Trigger Word/Number : Looking for, 3 Reasons Keyword: Engineer Adjective/Verb: Perfect, Excellent Promise: Your Team – the addition of this detail indicates to the employer that you will relate the information in your cover letter directly to the needs of their business.

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2. personalize the greeting & content 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,

3. Write an attention-grabbing engineering cover letter introduction

The introduction of your engineering cover letter not 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.

Here is an example of a well-written introduction on an engineering cover letter

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.

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4. 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.

5. 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

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,

[Applicant Name]

Follow this cover letter outline for maximum success.

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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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.

Resume and Cover Letter Experts

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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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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Graduate Engineer cover letter examples

Are you a recent graduate looking to accelerate your engineering career?

Then you need to effectively showcase the skills and experience you gained during your studies, starting with a creative cover letter.

Find out how to tailor your application and highlight your value with our step-by-step guide below, complete with graduate engineer cover letter examples to shape your own.

Graduate Engineer cover letter example 1

Graduate Engineer cover letter example 2

Graduate Engineer cover letter example 3

These 3 Graduate Engineer cover letter example s should provide you with a good steer on how to write your own cover letter, and the general structure to follow.

Our simple step-by-step guide below provides some more detailed advice on how you can craft a winning cover letter for yourself, that will ensure your CV gets opened.

How to write a Graduate Engineer cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Graduate Engineer cover letter

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

When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.

Why do this?

Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.

If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.

So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.

Start with a friendly greeting

To build an instant connection with the recruiter reading your cover letter, start with a warm greeting.

It should be friendly but not casual – keeping it professional at all times.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

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 these methods to find it.

• 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 have opened the cover letter with a warm greeting, you need to explain which role you are interested in.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant could be managing over 10 vacancies, so it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which one you are interested in.

Highlight the department/area if possible and look for any reference numbers you can quote.

These are some examples you can add..

• I am interested in applying for the role of Graduate Engineer with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT 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 bulk of your cover letter should be focused around highlighting your suitability for the job you are applying to.

Doing this will show the recruiter that you are suitable candidate and encourage them to open your CV.

The best way to do this, is by studying the job advert you are applying to, and find out what the most important skills and knowledge are.

Once you know the most important requirements, you then need to highlight your matching skills to the recruiter. In a few sentences, tell them exactly why you are a good fit for the job and what you can offer the company.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest 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,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [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 documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Graduate Engineer cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Graduate Engineer cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Graduate Engineer cover letter templates

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

As a dedicated MEng Structural Engineering graduate with internship experience in large-scale installation projects, feasibility studies, and audits for civil and renewable energy construction companies, I am thrilled to apply for the Graduate Engineer position at Paterson Ltd.

Throughout my academic journey at the University of Glasgow, I consistently maintained a stellar academic record, achieving a 1st Class Honours. I excelled in technical research, report writing, CAD modelling, and cost/benefit analysis, contributing to a feasibility study that led to a successful renewable energy system installation with 20% cost savings for the client during my internship at Source Power. Additionally, my expertise in end-to-end component development and schematic interpretation was pivotal in completing projects 10% ahead of schedule. As a Certified AutoCAD Professional, I utilised computer modelling to conduct complex data analysis and site audits, achieving a 95% accuracy rate during technical drawing inspections. During my internship at Source Power, I led a site audit of a 10-turbine field, identifying an unreported 300 sqm submerged rock area, which was promptly rectified, ensuring compliance, and preventing potential hazards.

I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and look forward to discussing this further.

Kind regards,

Orla Powell ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to apply for the Graduate Mechanical Engineer position at Sunner Yachts. As a highly competent Engineering Intern pursuing an integrated master’s in mechanical engineering, I possess a profound passion for engineering and a diverse skill set that makes me a suitable candidate for this role.

During my internship at Jameson Boats Ltd, I actively contributed to the development and testing of systems and components for large freight ships. Notably, I played a crucial role in reducing wasted aluminium by one third in a development project, showcasing my resource management and sustainable engineering skills. Additionally, I independently designed an anchor pulley system that was incorporated into a successful final prototype, demonstrating my technical prowess in CAD modelling and end-to-end product development. Throughout my studies at the University of Southampton, I have maintained a 65% grade average and excelled in modules such as Vibrations & Aeroelasticity and Nuclear Systems. My commitment to meeting project deadlines and delivering high-quality results was evident in my distinction-earning third-year project on the ‘Design and fabrication of an S10 submarine engine.’

Thank you for your consideration and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Sam Healy ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Dear Mr Pelton,

As a recent graduate with a BEng in Aerospace Engineering, I am thrilled to apply for the Graduate Aerospace Engineer position at BAE Solutions and I am confident in my ability to make a measurable impact on your team.

During my 12-month industry placement at Airbus Defence and Space, I conducted simulations and analyses on satellite subsystems using MATLAB, leading to a remarkable 30% reduction in design time. Additionally, my innovative MATLAB tool automated the generation of system requirements documents, resulting in an impressive 50% decrease in document generation time, significantly improving overall efficiency. During my time at Rolls-Royce, my contributions to the design and analysis of engine components resulted in a substantial 15% improvement in component performance. Additionally, throughout my academic journey at the University of Liverpool, I maintained a strong academic record and, my final project on the ‘Design and Analysis of a Quadrotor VTOL Aircraft for Urban Delivery’ received the Steinman Prize for its innovative approach and successful completion.

I am excited about the opportunity to join your R&D team and will be available from next month for an interview to discuss further how my skills align with your company’s objectives.

Liam McClean ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Graduate Engineer 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!

3 Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter Examples for 2023 

• Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter
• Mechanical Engineering Internship Cover Letter
• Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter
• Write Your Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter

In the world of mechanical engineering, your influence extends far and wide. You design complex machinery and troubleshoot robust systems, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

From optimizing machinery efficiency to problem-solving in the nitty-gritty of technical details, your skills shape the world around us. Yet, when it comes to writing a cover letter and complementary mechanical engineer resume , the gears may feel a bit rusty. 

Don’t stress—it’s just a different kind of challenge, and we’re here to guide you through it. Dive into our mechanical engineer cover letter examples and tips to navigate this unique terrain and showcase your expertise effectively.

Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• Balance the technical side by underscoring your soft skills , including teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. Genuine admiration for the hiring company and alignment with its vision is an excellent way to add flair to your mechanical engineer cover letter.

Mechanical Engineering Internship Cover Letter Example

• Close it off by expressing your eagerness to contribute and learn and inviting the recruiter for further conversation.

Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter Example

• Go beyond academic qualifications, narrating the real-world application of relevant skills and tools (cue Autodesk and Abaqus) during internships and volunteer programs. Tie it all up by expressing your drive to capitalize on this beginner role for mutual growth.

Related cover letter examples

• Mechanical engineer resume
• Engineering
• Data engineer
• Software engineer
• Entry level

How to Write a Stand-Out Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter

As a mechanical engineer, your cover letter is your blueprint for success, much like your meticulous approach to engineering challenges. To make it stand out, channel the same precision you put into your work into your letter. Read the job description , identify specific skills or experiences that the company wants, and use them to your advantage. 

As an example of this, if the role values expertise in thermal analysis, emphasize your accomplishments in that arena. It’s not just about showcasing your skills but aligning them seamlessly with what the employer is seeking. By customizing your cover letter, you’re not just applying for a job; you’re proving you’re the missing gear the team needs to achieve greatness.

Nailing the greeting and intro

Kick off your cover letter with a dynamic greeting, ideally addressing the hiring manager by name. Whether through LinkedIn, the company website, or a direct call, finding this personal information makes all the difference and helps you stand out immediately. 

Following the greeting, dive into an engaging opening paragraph that forms an instant connection. Express your passion for the engineering industry, citing specific mechanical projects or challenges that resonate with you. 

Make it clear why this company stands out to you and display genuine interest in its goals. Don’t forget to mention it by name and pick out a couple of key job skills from the job description that you hope to bring to the role.

Here’s what not to do. This opening lacks enthusiasm, doesn’t showcase any knowledge about the company, and fails to highlight the candidate’s unique strengths.

Big mistake…

I’m fresh out of school and I need a job. You’re hiring, so I thought I’d apply.

This opening, on the other hand, is detailed and passionate. It shows more than just a passion for engineering—it expresses a passion for the specific goals and purposes of the company in question. 

I would love to explore the dynamic world of rail transport and make lasting contributions as your next entry level mechanical engineer at Union Pacific Railroad. Born and raised in Omaha, NE, the strong presence of Union Pacific in our community inspired me to pursue mechanical engineering in hopes of one day joining your prestigious organization. As a recent graduate proficient in Autodesk, Abaqus, and more, I am eager to apply my skills and make meaningful impacts early in my career.

Getting the body content just right

Now, let’s dive into the meat of your mechanical engineer cover letter—the body paragraphs. Here, elaborate on your professional journey and highlight accomplishments you’re proud of. 

Whether it’s streamlining design processes, overseeing successful projects, or implementing innovative solutions, showcase the impact you had. Support your claims with quantifiable metrics, such as project completion times, efficiency improvements, or successful prototypes. 

Don’t forget to tailor these paragraphs to the job description . Emphasizing work experiences and job skills that are directly relevant to the role is the best way to get the hiring manager’s attention. By aligning your achievements with the employer’s needs, you’re not just telling them you’re a good fit; you’re proving it with concrete examples and measurable success.

A shining example!

While working on my capstone project at The University of Memphis, I utilized AutoCAD to design and model a biomedical device, reducing the component failure rate by 43%. Furthermore, I’ve optimized manufacturing processes for Memphis-based MedTech firm Medtronic, where I implemented Six Sigma methodologies to improve product consistency, resulting in a decrease in production errors by 29%.

Signing off with style

As you wrap up your mechanical engineer cover letter, reinforce your enthusiasm for the company by tying your values and qualifications to its mission and commitment to cutting-edge technology or innovation. 

Highlight a specific aspect from the job description or company ethos that resonates with you, showing you’ve thoroughly researched. For instance, if applying to a company with a focus on sustainable engineering, express your passion for eco-friendly solutions. 

Reiterate your suitability by summarizing your key skills and experiences in alignment with the company’s needs, and wrap it all up with a respectful “thank you for your consideration.”

Here’s what to avoid. A closer like this shows the candidate’s lack of dedication to the role and the application. Of course, everyone applies to multiple places, but the cover letter is about making the company feel special!

Never do this!

I hope to hear from you soon, but just to let you know, I’ve been applying everywhere so I don’t know how long I’ll remain available. 

Instead, focus on maintaining impeccable professional politeness and sincere enthusiasm for the opportunity, like this next example. 

Professional and memorable!

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to delve deeper into how I can contribute to your prestigious team and assist Siemens Energy in delivering on the fundamentals and furthering the energy transition.

Highlight your education and relevant certifications, emphasizing your readiness for the job. Discuss any transferable skills gained from past roles, such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, or teamwork. 

Demonstrate your knowledge of the company by referencing specific engineering projects or achievements, such as prototyping a unique part that improved the efficiency of a CNC machine. In addition, look to the future and imagine yourself as an employee of your dream company. Aligning your goals with theirs fosters a sense of connection.

Strike a balance. While demonstrating your technical expertise is crucial, avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive jargon. Use technical terms only when they serve a purpose, and explain them briefly if needed, ensuring your message is accessible to a broader audience because you don’t know who will read it first.