email cover letter for engineer

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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5 Engineering Cover Letter Examples Built for 2024 

• Engineering Cover Letter
• Engineering Cover Letter by Experience
• Engineering Cover Letters by Role
• Write Your Engineering Cover Letter

As an engineer, your role holds immense significance in shaping the world around us. You’re the problem solver, the innovator, and the driving force behind complex projects. From designing sustainable infrastructure to optimizing machinery and electrical systems, your skills are diverse and impactful.

But when it comes to writing a cover letter to complement your engineering resume , it’s a different ball game, and it can definitely feel a bit daunting. We understand that articulating your engineering prowess on paper can be a challenge.

That’s why we’re here to guide you through the process. Just follow our engineer cover letter examples and tips to simplify this unique writing task and fast forward to landing your dream job in engineering.

Engineering Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

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Block Format

Copy this text for your engineering cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Dallas, TX 75001 (123) 456-7890

October 01, 2023

Isabella Hill Texas Instruments 123 Fictional Lane Dallas, TX 75001

Dear Ms. Hill:

I have always revered Texas Instruments’ dedication to innovation and forward-thinking, so I am thrilled at the chance to contribute to your advancement in electrical engineering. With a dedication that resonates with your focus on pushing the boundaries of electronics, I bring five years of relevant experience that can help accelerate the development of your products, identify engineering efficiencies, and maintain your reputation for excellence as your electrical engineer.

At Intellic Integration, my contribution was instrumental in designing and deploying 32+ distinct analog circuit projects. By employing software tools like LTspice and KiCad, I was able to aid in the reduction of design turnaround time by 27% while ensuring a defect rate of less than 4%. In collaboration with teams, I also successfully reduced the cost of raw materials by 18% by presenting an alternative vendor offering similar quality products.

While working at NXP Semiconductors, I led a team conducting comprehensive power flow studies using ETAP for 13 industrial clients. This project not only resulted in a 14% reduction in network losses but also increased network availability by 19%, thereby ensuring higher client satisfaction and retention.

My experience also includes complex problem-solving in swift turnaround settings. One notable instance was at Baker Hughes, where I designed and implemented an emergency power supply circuit within 17 hours, helping the firm avert a projected loss of $67,123 due to power outages. My Professional Engineer (PE) license further underscores my commitment to the highest technical and ethical standards.

Unwavering in my commitment to cultivating an environment of trust, respect, and collaboration, it would be an honor to bring my talent to a company as reputable as Texas Instruments. I am prepared to provide further details about my experience at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your consideration.

Matias Castro

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Professional Engineer (PE) License

Why this cover letter works

• Also, see how Matias enthusiastically kicks off this engineering cover letter. In addition, one or two soft skills should suffice (cue communication skills, project management, and problem-solving).

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Pair Your Cover Letter with a Matching Engineering Resume

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Entry Level Engineering Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your entry-level engineering cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Charlotte, NC 28202 (123) 456-7890

October 20, 2024

Mia Thomas AECOM 123 Fictional Lane Charlotte, NC 28202

Dear Ms. Thomas:

The wonder of our planet has always captivated me, a fascination that grew into a passion for technology and, eventually, a commitment to fostering a sustainable future. This passion steered me toward obtaining my civil engineering degree. With a robust skill set in software development, keen leadership in Scrum methodologies, and a collaborative spirit, I’m thrilled at the prospect of addressing the complexities involved in devising sustainable and groundbreaking engineering solutions at AECOM.

I actively contributed to the Urban Infrastructure Optimization project at Capstone Civil Group, proposing design modifications that cut construction costs by 9% and improved accuracy. My experience extends to using engineering software like AutoCAD and ArcGIS, which is directly relevant to the fieldwork and site inspection tasks described in your job posting. Additionally, my volunteer work assessing coastal resilience involved using ArcGIS for structural integrity analysis, showcasing my capability in handling complex data and field evaluations.

An internship at Wildlands Engineering enriched me with valuable experience in water resources engineering. Here, I assisted senior engineers in developing floodplain mapping models and improving flood risk assessments for over 16 properties. This experience reinforced my passion for sustainable infrastructure and gave me valuable skills to apply at AECOM.

My role as a gas attendant at QuickTrip allowed me to refine my efficiency and safety management skills. By analyzing traffic patterns and leading safety initiatives, I reduced wait times by 12% and decreased workplace accidents to just three incidents over eight months. These experiences underline my ability to support project managers effectively and contribute to your high-functioning team.

AECOM’s dedication to sustainable and transformative projects resonates with my career goals and personal values. I’m excited about applying my skills in a dynamic environment and contributing to your impactful initiatives. Thank you for considering my application; discussing how my background aligns with this civil engineering assistant role would be highly welcomed.

Noah Garcia

Enclosures: Resume Transcript 2 letters of recommendation

• Take Noah, for example. He connects the dots between his fascination for Planet Earth, commitment to a sustainable future, and drive to study civil engineering. Doesn’t that paint a picture of a passionate candidate, possibly with much potential waiting to be unleashed? But more than that, it’s a great strategy for building rapport with the recruiter reading your piece and setting your candidacy up for success.

Software Engineering Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your software engineering cover letter!

Riley Parker FedEx 123 Fictional Lane Memphis, TN 38101

Dear Mr. Parker:

As a full-stack developer with six years of experience and countless more as an avid problem-solver, I am confident I would make a skilled and valuable addition to FedEx’s team. I thrive on each new coding challenge and excel in environments that push my strategic thinking and innovative use of technologies like JavaScript, React, Node.js, and MongoDB. My proven track record in developing robust, scalable applications aligns with FedEx’s dedication to cutting-edge solutions and operational excellence.

During my tenure at Deloitte, I architected and implemented over 29 software systems, enhancing performance and responsiveness across various platforms. By integrating existing software into upgraded systems and executing comprehensive tests, I reduced operational downtime by 264 hours annually, saving the company approximately $154,086 in maintenance costs.

My work at Comspark International further honed my skills as I developed and maintained robust code for critical systems and participated in significant business continuity exercises. During this time, I led initiatives that cut down system recovery times by 28%, ensuring minimal disruption to business operations. These experiences have given me a solid foundation in front-end and back-end development, from database management to dynamic user interfaces.

Moreover, my proactive stance on analyzing user needs and managing project milestones has markedly improved application performance and solved intricate issues. Mentoring over 41 students as an assistant lecturer at Tennessee Tech University honed my capability to navigate and solve complex coding problems, further enriching my development expertise. Thank you for considering my application. I’m eager to learn about FedEx’s innovative endeavors and demonstrate how my experience and skills can propel your company’s achievements even further.

Matteo Esposito

Enclosures: Resume Application form 2 letters of recommendation

• The saying, “Numbers speak louder,” couldn’t be truer when proving you’re up to snuff. For one, they break the monotony of bland narration. But more importantly, they showcase your ability to drive desired results. Maybe you built 29 software systems that enhanced performance and responsiveness. Perhaps recount that development that saved a particular company $150K+ in maintenance costs. Such mentions are music to the ears of a recruiter filling a software engineer position.

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your mechanical engineering cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Chicago, IL 60007 (123) 456-7890

James Lewis United Airlines 123 Fictional Lane Chicago, IL 60007

Dear Mr. Lewis:

Studying the combustion of jet engines while pursuing my mechanical engineering degree left an indelible impression on me. The intricate fusion of precision, power, and excellence not only fascinated me but also pushed me to make it a part of my career journey. Carrying this passion forward, I have been fortunate to fuse my knowledge with my profession over the past six years. Emulating a similar pattern towards success and precision, I am eager to embark on a new adventure with United Airlines as your next mechanical engineer.

At Invernergy, I utilized SOLIDWORKS and ANSYS for designing and simulating mechanical systems. Due to my efforts, there was a decrease in the production defect rate by 17%, and I managed to extend the product lifecycle by 13%, amplifying cost savings.

Together with the team at James Hardie, we tapped MATLAB for several predictive maintenance assignments. Utilizing predictive models, we were able to flag the signs of imminent equipment failure, slashing the failure probability by 14% and achieving a 9% increase in production volume.

At Arrow Gear, my skills in ANSYS facilitated finite element analysis, leading to a substantial 23% decrease in material stress concentration points in our product line. This directly led to a spike in the product safety and compliance rating by 29%. I look forward to the opportunity to bring my unique set of skills and the spirit of perseverance to United Airlines. Thank you for considering my application.

• Use real numbers to underpin impacts generated from industry-specific skills in previous roles (cue 13% improvement in product lifecycle). Proficiency in pertinent software like MATLAB, ANYSYS, and SOLIDWORKS is a welcome bonus.

Civil Engineering Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your civil engineering cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Detroit, MI 48127 (123) 456-7890

Noah Moore Wade Trim 123 Fictional Lane Detroit, MI 48127

Dear Mr. Moore,

Since my tender age, I have been utterly fascinated by the intriguing bond between civil engineering and societal development. Starkly etched in my memory is the 2013 Detroit flooding, a catastrophic event that could have decimated my family were it not for the efforts of the resilient city engineers and planners. It served as my pivotal moment, sparking a burning desire to become a civil engineer who didn’t just build structures but shaped lives and society. Now, I am thrilled to bring my expertise in SAP2000, Geotechnical Engineering, and more to Wade Trim as a civil engineer.

During my tenure with Smith Group, harnessing the power of SAP2000, I proposed ground-breaking enhancements to existing structures, which ushered in an unprecedented 19% surge in load-bearing capacity. That was instrumental in bolstering public safety and triggering significant urban developments.

Later, in my role at Giffels Webster, I played a crucial part in a monumental urban revitalization project, applying my expertise in soil mechanics, slope stability, and foundations. Seeing our landslide risk plummet by a spectacular 27% was a testament to our hard work, ensuring the structural safety of the new community development.

In my stint with the flood control task force at WSP, I capitalized on HEC-RAS to model and decipher the complex dynamics of floodplain scenarios. After relentless ideation, I spotted and redesigned critical bottlenecks in the waterways. This strategic move led to a remarkable 16% dip in flooding risks for susceptible zones in the Detroit metropolitan region.

Wade Trim stands as a beacon of engineering brilliance and I look forward to discussing how my civil engineering savvy can catalyze your continual growth and, in return, enrich urban landscapes and escalate societal quality of life. Thank you.

Mikhail Ivanov

• But again, you must prove your competence. Enter detailed and snappy highlights of your experiences showcasing the use of industry-specific skills like Geotechnical engineering and HEC-RAS and complemented with tangible results.

Related cover letter examples

• Engineering resume
• Computer science
• Web developer

How to Write a Persuasive Engineering Cover Letter

Precision and attention to detail are second nature to you, and writing a great cover letter is already well within your skill set—because you know what makes a good engineer. To truly showcase this expertise and stand out to each potential employer, it’s crucial to tailor your cover letter to the specific job description . 

For instance, if the role emphasizes management skills, highlight your experience in successfully overseeing complex engineering projects. Doing this demonstrates that you’ve read the job requirements and understand how your qualifications align with the employer’s needs. 

Getting the greeting right

To kick off your engineer cover letter with a bang, start by addressing the recipient by name. You can find this information by scouring the company’s website and LinkedIn profile, or even making a quick phone call. If you absolutely can’t find a name, a polite “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company] Team” will still do the trick.

Following the greeting, your opening paragraph should be a captivating hook. This is your opportunity to connect with the company and demonstrate why you’re tailor-made for the role. 

Mention your passion for tackling complex engineering challenges or your admiration for the company’s groundbreaking projects. Personalize this for each job application; for example, if the role emphasizes designing and reading blueprints, mention your confidence in that regard.

Now, let’s steer clear of some common pitfalls. This example falls flat because it lacks enthusiasm, doesn’t address why you’re a great fit, and fails to make any connection with the employer or its specific needs. 

A bit bland…

I saw your job listing for an engineer online. I noticed you haven’t gotten many responses, so I hope you can hire me.

This next example, on the other hand, is positively bursting with enthusiasm. The applicant sounds like they’re applying for their ultimate dream job, and that’s exactly the impression you want to give.

Enthusiastic and exciting!

Crafting compelling body paragraphs

In the body paragraphs of your cover letter, it’s time to build on the strong foundation you’ve laid. For engineers, this is your opportunity to discuss specific projects you’ve worked on, your technical expertise, and the impact you’ve made. 

Whether it’s managing complex infrastructure projects, optimizing machinery for efficiency, or solving intricate electrical system challenges, focus on the engineering tasks that make you stand out. 

Numbers are your friends here. Share metrics that illustrate your contributions—whether it’s the number of successful projects you’ve completed, the percentage increase in productivity you achieved, or how your innovative solutions reduced costs or improved safety.

Your expertise will shine!

Closing and signing off your cover letter with style

In the closing paragraph of your engineer cover letter, your goal is to leave a lasting impression by summarizing how your values, qualifications, and job skills align perfectly with the company.

Begin by reiterating your excitement about the opportunity. Demonstrate that you’ve done your research by mentioning something specific about the company or role that resonates with you. For example, if applying to a company known for innovative sustainability projects, express your passion for environmental responsibility.

Lastly, never forget to express gratitude for the consideration and conclude with a professional signoff like “Sincerely, [Your Name].”

This closing line is a no-go because it introduces a potential obstacle and is unprofessional for a cover letter. Always leave such discussions for later stages of the hiring process! 

Not so fast!

I’m looking forward to working with you. Just so you know, I play golf every Friday so I need to leave by 2 pm on that day. Thanks!

The next example is far more on point. Any company will choose the passionate applicant over everyone else because it gives the impression that you’ll go above and beyond. 

In modern cover letter writing, including addresses is largely unnecessary. Instead, focus on the letter’s content, which should emphasize your job skills in engineering and the field you specialize in the most, such as civil engineering.

Customize your cover letter for each job application by mentioning specific aspects of the company that resonate with you. For example, if the company is known for introducing innovative solutions in the medical field, emphasize your excitement at contributing your engineering expertise to such an important mission.

Tailor the tone to match the company culture and job description . If the company has a formal culture, keep your language professional. If it’s more relaxed, you can be slightly more informal, but always maintain a respectful and positive tone. Don’t be afraid to use technical engineering jargon to show your knowledge.

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

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

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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