If you’re a mechanical engineering student looking to kickstart your career with a competitive edge, then creating an effective intern resume is crucial. Your mechanical engineering intern resume serves as the foundation for building a positive first impression with potential employers.
In this comprehensive guide, we will outline everything you need to know about crafting an impactful mechanical engineering intern resume that stands out from the rest. We’ll also highlight some of the top tips and tricks from industry professionals to help you secure your dream internship.
This guide has been specifically curated to provide you with the necessary tools to make your resume shine, including formatting guidelines, buzzwords, and examples of successful resumes. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve an existing resume, this guide has got you covered.
Keep reading to learn about the importance and purpose of a mechanical engineering intern resume, and an overview of what you can expect to find in this article:
Importance of a mechanical engineering intern resume
A mechanical engineering intern resume is an essential tool for students to secure internship opportunities. It serves as a marketing document for your skills, experience, and qualifications to potential employers. Hiring managers use resumes as an initial screening tool to shortlist candidates for interviews, making it critical to stand out from the crowd.
Having a well-crafted intern resume that showcases your abilities, relevant projects, and notable achievements can significantly increase your chances of landing a coveted internship.
Overview of the contents of the article
This comprehensive guide to creating a mechanical engineering intern resume includes the following topics:
- Key sections to include in your mechanical engineering intern resume
- Tips on formatting, tone, and content to make your resume stand out
- Examples of strong mechanical engineering intern resumes
- A breakdown of the best industry buzzwords to include in your resume
- Pro tips from experienced professionals in the mechanical engineering field
- Common mistakes to avoid when creating an intern resume
By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create a compelling mechanical engineering intern resume that will get noticed by reputable employers. Let’s dive in! As a mechanical engineering intern, you must craft a resume that not only highlights your experience but also showcases your relevant coursework, technical skills, projects, and achievements. Below are the key sections to include in your resume.
Header
The header section should include your full name, contact information (email and phone number), and current address. Make sure your email address is professional.
Objective or Summary
Your objective or summary should be a brief statement that highlights your career goals and what you can bring to the table as a mechanical engineering intern. Make sure it is clear and concise.
Education
The education section should list your academic credentials, including your degree type, major, and graduation date. Include the name of the university or college as well.
Relevant Coursework
List courses that are relevant to the mechanical engineering field, such as dynamics, thermodynamics, mechanics of materials, and others that showcase your technical knowledge.
Technical Skills and Certifications
Highlight your technical skills and relevant certifications such as knowledge of CAD (computer-aided design) software, proficiency in certain programming languages, and any relevant certifications like Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.
Work Experience
This section should include your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. Describe your job duties and how they relate to mechanical engineering.
Projects and Accomplishments
Highlight your relevant projects and accomplishments, including research projects, design projects, or any other relevant work that showcases your skills and experience.
Extracurricular Activities
List extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership skills, community involvement, and team collaboration.
Awards and Honors
Include any academic and non-academic awards and honors you have received that demonstrate your achievements and successes.
References
Include references only if requested by the employer. List three professional references with their names, titles, and contact information.
Header Section
The header section in your mechanical engineering intern resume is a crucial aspect that introduces you to the recruiters. It comprises identification information such as your name, address, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile link.
- Identification Information
Your full name should be at the top center of your resume in a larger font size than the rest of the text. You can also make it bold to give it more emphasis. Next is your address, make sure it’s complete with the street address, city, state, and zip code. This shows your location, making it easier for the recruiters to reach out to you. Add your phone number and email address. Ensure they are current and professional. You don’t want to miss a call or email from a potential employer because your contact information was incorrect or unprofessional.
- LinkedIn Profile Link
A LinkedIn profile link is an excellent way to introduce yourself to recruiters as a mechanical engineering intern. It’s a platform to highlight your skills and accomplishments beyond your resume. A well-optimized LinkedIn profile can help you establish connections and attract job opportunities.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and professional. Include a professional photo, a well-written headline, and a summary that highlights your expertise and relevant work experience. Add your education achievements, certification, and technical skills to your profile. You can also showcase your portfolio, projects, and publications relevant to your field.
Your header section should have your name, address, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile link. They are crucial pieces of information that make it easier for recruiters to contact you and learn more about you. Make sure they are current, professional, and optimized to give your job application a competitive edge.
Objective or Summary Section
When writing a Mechanical Engineering Intern resume, it’s important to include an Objective or Summary section that quickly grabs the attention of hiring managers and highlights your career aspirations.
Explanation of Goals, Objectives, and Aspirations
Your Objective or Summary should convey your short-term and long-term career goals, and be tailored to the specific job opening you are applying for. This section is an opportunity to showcase what you bring to the table and how your skills and experience make you the ideal candidate for the role.
Tips for Tailoring to Specific Job Openings
To tailor your Objective or Summary section to a specific job opening, you should carefully read the job description and company values. Aim to demonstrate how your experiences and aspirations align with the goals of the company, and how you can contribute to their success. This can include showcasing relevant technical skills, personal qualities, or past projects that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the company’s success.
Examples of Objective and Summary Statements
Here are some examples of Objective and Summary statements that you can use as inspiration when crafting your own:
Objective Statement Example 1:
To secure a Mechanical Engineering Internship position at XYZ Company, where I can utilize my strong technical skills in CAD, SolidWorks, and Finite Element Analysis to contribute to team projects, develop my problem-solving abilities, and gain hands-on experience in the field.
Objective Statement Example 2:
To obtain a Mechanical Engineering Internship position at ABC Corporation, where I can leverage my academic and research background in thermodynamics, materials science, and fluid dynamics to support the design and testing of innovative products, and contribute to the growth of the company.
Summary Statement Example 1:
Results-oriented Mechanical Engineering student with a passion for design and testing, seeking an internship opportunity where I can apply my strong analytical and technical skills, as well as my ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, to make a meaningful contribution to the company’s ongoing success.
Summary Statement Example 2:
Highly motivated Mechanical Engineering student with a track record of academic excellence, seeking an internship position where I can apply my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for problem-solving to support the development of cutting-edge technologies and processes, and develop my skills as an engineer.
By crafting a compelling Objective or Summary section that is tailored to the specific job opening, you can increase your chances of landing an interview. Use your Objective or Summary section as an opportunity to showcase what sets you apart, and demonstrate how you can make a valuable contribution to the company’s success.
Education Section
When crafting your mechanical engineering intern resume, the education section should highlight your academic achievements and demonstrate that you are a qualified candidate for the role. This section should include a list of your academic qualifications, any relevant coursework, and any academic achievements you have obtained.
List of academic qualifications
Begin by listing your academic degrees, starting with your highest degree first. For example:
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, XYZ University (2020)
- Associate of Science in Engineering, ABC College (2016)
If you are currently pursuing a degree, indicate the expected graduation date.
Pointers for highlighting academic achievements
When highlighting your academic achievements, include any honors or awards received, academic clubs or organizations joined, and any relevant coursework. Including relevant coursework is especially important if you do not have any work experience in the field of mechanical engineering.
For example:
- Received Dean’s List award for maintaining a 3.5 GPA
- Completed coursework in engineering design, manufacturing processes, and thermodynamics
- Participated in the ABC College Mechanical Engineering Club and served as treasurer for two years
Keep in mind that it is important to quantify your achievements whenever possible. For instance, providing a percentage or number can make your achievements more impactful.
Discussion on the relevance of GPA and class rank
The relevance of GPA and class rank will depend on the company and industry you are applying to. Some employers may consider your GPA and class rank to be a critical factor in your qualifications for the role, while others may place more emphasis on your work experience and skills.
As a mechanical engineering intern, having a strong academic record can demonstrate your discipline and ability to learn complex technical concepts. However, it’s important to note that a lower GPA or class rank does not necessarily disqualify you from the role.
If a high GPA or class rank is something that you want to highlight, consider including it in your resume as part of your academic achievements. However, if you do not have a high GPA or class rank, focus on highlighting other areas of your resume such as relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, and previous work experience.
When crafting your education section, focus on highlighting your academic qualifications and achievements in a way that best demonstrates your abilities and qualifications for the mechanical engineering intern role.
Relevant Coursework Section
As a mechanical engineering intern, your coursework plays a crucial part in your resume. It can give potential employers a glimpse into what you have learned and the skills that you bring to the table.
Overview of Coursework Relevant to the Internship or Job
When crafting your relevant coursework section, it’s important to focus on the courses that best align with the requirements of the internship or job you’re applying for. You want to highlight the coursework that showcases your knowledge and ability to take on the responsibilities of the position.
Tips for Framing Course Work in Terms of Strengths and Competencies
While listing your relevant coursework, it’s important to frame it in a way that highlights your strengths and competencies. Start by identifying specific skills that are required for the job. Then, match the skills with the relevant coursework and briefly explain how the coursework strengthened each skill. Be sure to discuss any group projects, research or lab work that has demonstrated your ability to work collaboratively, analyze data, and critical thinking skills.
Example Section with Relevant Courses for the Job
Here’s an example of how to showcase relevant courses on your resume for an internship in mechanical engineering:
Mechanical Engineering Coursework:
- Thermodynamics: Learned the principles of thermodynamics background and how it relates to energy systems, gases, and heat transfer, etc.
- Design and Manufacturing: Designed and manufactured several prototypes, utilizing AutoCAD and SolidWorks to design components to exact specifications.
- Material Science: Studied the properties and behaviors of different materials, including metals, ceramics, and plastics, and how they are used in various applications.
- Control Systems: Learned about the principles of feedback control systems, including PID control and system modeling. Designed and analyzed control systems for a robotic arm project, utilizing Matlab and Simulink.
- Machine Design: Analyzed the design principles and design processes for mechanical systems, with an emphasis on the selection of components and materials. Collaborated as a design engineer for a project designing and building advanced drone frames.
- Engineering Mechanics: Studied statics, dynamics, and mechanics of materials, including stress, strain, and deformation analysis. Analyzed materials under various loading conditions, and applied mathematical models using principles of calculus, centroids, and moments of inertia.
By framing the relevant courses in terms of the specific competencies and strengths required by the internship, you present a comprehensive picture of your abilities to potential employers.
Remember to tailor your coursework section to the specific job or internship you’re applying for, providing contextual information on the coursework that will give your resume an edge over others and ultimately help you land the job.
Technical Skills and Certifications
As a mechanical engineering intern, the candidate possesses a set of technical skills that are necessary to excel in their role. These skills include proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD), knowledge of materials science, and experience in experimental design and data analysis. They are also well-versed in statics and dynamics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics – skills that are crucial for the successful completion of mechanical engineering projects.
In addition to their technical skills, the candidate also boasts a range of relevant certifications that demonstrate their proficiency in specific areas. These certifications include Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA), Certified in Engineering Design (CED), and Certified in Mechanical Engineering Fundamentals (CMEF). These certifications are valuable additions to the resume and help to demonstrate the candidate’s level of expertise in the field.
The candidate’s technical skills have been put to use on a range of projects, including the design and development of industrial machines and equipment. For example, they have designed and prototyped parts using CAD software, and have conducted stress analysis and finite element analysis on these parts to ensure their durability and performance under pressure. They have also conducted experiments to evaluate the wear and tear of materials under different conditions, and have analyzed the resulting data to make recommendations for material selection in future projects.
Other examples of the candidate’s technical skills in action include their creation of detailed engineering drawings and specifications for equipment installation and fabrication. They have also demonstrated their ability to troubleshoot and repair complex machinery, and have even designed custom tooling to streamline production processes. Their technical skills have allowed them to tackle a variety of projects with confidence, from the design of simple mechanical devices to the management of large-scale engineering projects.
The candidate’s technical skills and certifications are essential components of their resume, and demonstrate their ability to excel in a mechanical engineering intern role. From their proficiency in CAD and data analysis to their expertise in materials science and thermodynamics, the candidate has the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. Their relevant certifications further demonstrate their level of expertise and commitment to their profession, and set them apart from other candidates. The candidate’s technical skills and certifications make them an outstanding candidate for any mechanical engineering intern position.
Work Experience Section
The work experience section of your mechanical engineering intern resume is critical in demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects. This section should list all relevant work experience, including roles, internships, or volunteer experience.
When elaborating on your work experience, focus on your achievements and responsibilities. Use specific examples to show how you contributed to the success of the project, including any challenges you faced and how you overcame them. Highlight your technical abilities by describing the methods you used to solve problems, design solutions, and test prototypes.
Here is an example work experience section that showcases achievements:
Example Work Experience Section
Mechanical Engineering Intern, Acme Co.
June 2020 – Present
- Designed and prototyped a new gearbox for a low-cost wind turbine, resulting in a 25% increase in energy efficiency and a 50% reduction in manufacturing cost
- Conducted finite element analysis (FEA) simulations to optimize the design of a carbon fiber bicycle frame, reducing weight by 20% without sacrificing strength
- Assembled and tested a new 3D printing system, reducing print time by 50% and improving print quality by 30%
- Collaborated with the engineering team to streamline the production process of a high-precision medical device, reducing assembly time by 40%
Engineering Intern, XYZ Co.
January 2020 – June 2020
- Assisted in the design and testing of a new 5-axis CNC machine, resulting in a 30% increase in production speed and a 20% reduction in machining errors
- Conducted market research on composite materials for use in aircraft structures, leading to the successful adoption of a new material that improved fuel efficiency by 10%
- Worked with the quality assurance team to create a new testing protocol for a critical component of a satellite, resulting in a 100% increase in testing accuracy and a 50% reduction in testing time
Volunteer Engineer, Habitat for Humanity
May 2019 – August 2019
- Instructed and supervised a team of volunteers in the construction of a residential house, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations and coordinating with subcontractors
- Designed and built an energy-efficient heating and cooling system for a Habitat for Humanity house, reducing energy costs by 30% and improving indoor air quality
Your work experience section should demonstrate your technical abilities and your ability to solve complex problems. Use specific examples to show your contributions to the success of the project, and highlight your achievements and responsibilities.
Projects and Accomplishments Section
When it comes to showcasing your mechanical engineering skills and experience in your resume, highlighting your projects and accomplishments can make all the difference. This section is where you can elaborate on your academic or extracurricular projects, publications, patents, or research initiatives, and provide concrete examples of your achievements.
One important tip for expressing your accomplishments is to use quantifiable terms. This means providing specific numbers, percentages, or other measurable data to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, rather than saying you “improved production efficiency,” you could say you “increased production efficiency by 25% by implementing a new manufacturing process.”
To give you an idea of the types of mechanical engineering projects you can include in this section, here are some examples:
- Design and fabrication of a prosthetic hand for a child with a limb difference. The project incorporated 3D printing technology and robotics to create a functional and affordable solution.
- Development of a solar-powered car with a team of engineering students. The project involved designing and optimizing the car’s aerodynamics, powertrain, and electrical systems to maximize efficiency and speed.
- Optimization of a manufacturing process for a medical device company, resulting in a 30% decrease in production costs and a 20% increase in output.
- Publication of a research paper on the use of artificial intelligence in predicting equipment failures in the aerospace industry.
- Patent for a new type of energy-saving HVAC system for large-scale commercial buildings.
By including specific details about these projects and accomplishments, you can demonstrate your skills, creativity, and ability to make tangible contributions in the field of mechanical engineering. Don’t be afraid to highlight your achievements, and remember to use quantifiable data wherever possible to showcase your impact.
Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are a crucial aspect of any well-rounded college experience. They provide an opportunity for students to pursue interests outside of their academic commitments, develop new skills, and showcase their unique strengths to potential employers. As a Mechanical Engineering Intern, it is important to highlight your extracurricular activities on your resume to stand out in a competitive job market.
When discussing your extracurricular activities, it is essential to emphasize those that demonstrate relevant skills to the position. These can include hobbies related to engineering, such as robotics, coding, or 3D printing. Discussing these interests shows that you have a passion for the field and have taken the initiative to explore it outside of the classroom.
However, it is also important to highlight activities that may not be directly related to engineering but can demonstrate valuable transferable skills. For example, participation in a sports team or club can showcase teamwork, leadership, and communication skills. Volunteer work or involvement in a community organization can demonstrate your commitment, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities.
When discussing how your extracurricular activities demonstrate transferable skills, it is important to provide specific examples. For instance, if you were part of a robotics club, you can highlight how the experience helped you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Similarly, if you participated in a sports team, you can discuss how it helped you develop leadership and communication skills through teamwork.
Your extracurricular activities can play a vital role in demonstrating your value as a Mechanical Engineering Intern. Emphasize those activities that showcase your relevant skills and highlight how they demonstrate transferable skills that can be applied to your future role. By doing so, you can maximize your chances of landing the job and starting a successful career as an engineer.
Awards and Honors
As an aspiring mechanical engineering intern, it is essential to highlight any notable awards, scholarships, or prizes you have received. Doing so can significantly increase your chances of landing your dream internship. Here are some tips on how to effectively showcase your awards and honors in your resume:
Description of Notable Awards
- Highlight any honors or awards that are relevant to your field of study, such as the Society of Manufacturing Engineers Award or the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Scholarship.
- Mention any academic achievements, such as Dean’s List or Honor Roll recognitions.
- Include information about any highly competitive programs or contests you have participated in, such as the International Science and Engineering Fair or the National Robotics Competition.
Relevance of Awards for the Job Opening
Awards and honors demonstrate your exceptional skills, achievements, and contributions in your field or academic pursuits. They show that you have taken initiatives and pursued excellence beyond what is expected of you. The relevance of awards for the job opening is in the following aspects:
Demonstrating Technical Skills
Awards can showcase your technical skills and knowledge, especially in subjects that are relevant to your prospective internship. For example, if you have received an electronics competition award, it shows your expertise in electronic devices design, programming, and troubleshooting. Such expertise can be highly valuable for mechanical engineering internships that require hands-on work with electronic equipment.
Highlighting Soft Skills
Awards can also demonstrate your communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Most awards involve working in a team, communicating effectively, and demonstrating leadership abilities. Furthermore, winning contests or competitions usually requires brainstorming, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving – all essential skills for a mechanical engineering intern.
Establishing Credibility
Winning prestigious awards or scholarships can establish your credibility and authority in your field. It shows that you have been recognized by experts, professionals, or academic institutions as a high achiever in your area of focus. This recognition can be an added advantage in a highly competitive field like mechanical engineering, where employers seek candidates with exceptional skills and potential.
When listing your awards and honors, ensure to provide a brief description and context of each award, highlighting its relevance to the job opening. Moreover, use action verbs to create a compelling narrative around your achievements and showcase your skills and potential as a mechanical engineering intern.
References
References play a critical role in the hiring process for mechanical engineering internships. They provide employers with valuable insight into an applicant’s work experience, skills, and work ethic. Having a well-vetted list of references can be the deciding factor between landing your dream internship or missing out on it.
Tips on Selecting and Listing References
When selecting references, it is essential to choose people who can speak to your work experience, skills, and character. Ideally, references should be individuals you have worked with or for, and who have a good understanding of your capabilities. It is also important to consider the relevance of the reference. For instance, if you are applying for a mechanical engineering internship, a reference from a previous or current employer in the same industry would be more valuable than one from an unrelated field.
When listing your references, ensure that you have their full name, job title or relationship to you, the company or organization they work for, their email address and phone number. It is recommended to have at least three professional references, and it is good practice to ask for their permission before listing them.
How to Ask for a Recommendation
Getting a good recommendation requires planning and clear communication. Here are some steps to follow when requesting a recommendation:
Choose the right person: Consider the relevance of the reference and whether this person can speak to your skills and experience.
Personalize your request: Reach out to your chosen reference and explain why you are contacting them, what you hope to achieve, and the type of position you are applying for.
Provide context: Briefly remind your reference about your work history together or your relevant accomplishments.
Ask specifically for what you need: Be clear on what you would like the person to emphasize or speak to. For instance, you can request that they focus on your technical skills or teamwork abilities.
Offer assistance: If your reference is hesitant or unsure about what to say, offer to provide them with additional information, such as a copy of your resume or a detailed job description.
It is important to thank your references and keep them updated on your progress throughout the application process. Remember that your references are a valuable asset, and it is essential to maintain a positive relationship with them even if you do not get the internship.
References are an integral part of the mechanical engineering internship hiring process. By selecting the right references and following these guidelines on requesting a recommendation, you can increase your chances of landing your dream internship.
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