What are employers looking for in an engineering graduate?

We spoke to Amal Hanna, Manager of TeleGrid for TransGrid and Vice-President of Engineers Australia

Describe the type of engineering graduate you look to recruit in your company.

An Electrical Power Engineering graduate with good knowledge of Electrical Engineering related theories and their practical application in the power industry. Knowledge of complementing subjects such as Information Technology (IT) and basic understanding of Civil and Mechanical Engineering Principles are also essential. The graduate needs to be aware of safety and environmental issues related to the power industry. Subjects related to project management; computer skills (particularly Word, Excel, etc) would also be an advantage.

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

Desirable attributes would include:

• Ability to effectively apply learned theories into real practical situations
• Good problem-solving approach
• Team-playing
• Effective communication skills both orally and in writing
• Computer skills
• Self-motivation and focus on outcomes
• Ability to actively pursue further learning by querying and investigating issues at hand and further formal specialised short studies

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

We look for:

• Level of proficiency in relevant skills set
• Level of motivation and commitment to achieve set objectives
• Communication skills
• Disposition and presentation including the presentation of a well-structured and easy-to-read CV and the preparation of a covering letter addressing the selection criteria
• Active listening ability
• Effort demonstrated in preparing for the job interview
• Records of past academic and extra-curricular achievements

Brief knowledge of the interviewing organisation's activities and background, a positive attitude and display of confidence in the graduate's own abilities also impress the interviewing panel.

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

• Acquire proficiency in the relevant skills set
• Make your skills set broad rather than narrow or specialised (specialisation can be done on the job and with further short course studies, or higher degrees)
• Be motivated and committed to achieve the set objectives
• Develop good communication skills
• Acquire as much work experience as possible while completing your undergraduate course
• Devote some time to extra-curricular activities – achievements outside of the classroom also count

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

The level of investment for general training of graduates by employers has been reduced over recent years, compared to, say, 10 or more years ago. However, employers would be prepared to invest in specialised training relevant to the workplace if the right candidates were there. Most large organisations expect some initial training and development before full productivity is expected.

Universities would assist by making available specialised short courses and/or case studies.