What are employers looking for in an engineering graduate?

We spoke to Phil McKee, Manager of Engineering Development for EnergyAustralia

What are the generic attributes you require in an employee and why are these important in the workplace?

• Communication skills (written and verbal)
• Interpersonal skills
• Customer focus
• Good leadership potential
• Committed to working as part of a team
• People who are creative, innovative and self-motivated
• Also people with strong theoretical knowledge and who have the ability to use it

The above skills and attributes are important because engineering is about people.

What do you look for when you are interviewing an engineering graduate for a position?

The right mix of the above skills and attributes demonstrating a well-balanced person who genuinely shows a desire to work for our company.

"Come prepared to the interview... be well-dressed and never be late..."

What advice would you give to undergraduate students who are looking to become more employable by the time they graduate?

Work hard at university to ensure you obtain a credit average and be selective when choosing your undergraduate work experience to ensure its relevance to your career path.

Do you have any other insights from an employer's perspective?

Come prepared to the interview. Ensure you research the company. First impressions do count – be well-dressed and never ever be late.