How to Write a Mechanical Engineer CV That Makes an Impact

Landing your dream job as a mechanical engineer starts with crafting a modern CV that effortlessly showcases your skills, accomplishments, and potential. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, your CV is your gateway to securing that all-important interview.

In this guide, we show you how to create the best mechanical engineer CV that lands you the job. With examples and actionable tips, you can learn how to showcase your key achievements, highlight your technical expertise, and craft a compelling document that grabs the attention of hiring managers and sets you apart from the competition.

In this article, we share:

• A professional mechanical engineer CV example

• What to include in your CV, step by step for any mechanical engineer role.

• How to highlight key skills, from technical to soft skills

• Writing tailored personal profiles for different career stages

• Showcasing work experience and education effectively

• Enhancing your CV with additional sections, like certifications

• Formatting tips, FAQs, and more.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with all the tools needed to write an applicant tracking system (ATS)-friendly CV that stands out.

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Mechanical Engineer CV Example

Mechanical Engineer CV sample PDF free download

This mechanical engineering graduate CV example not only highlights Irene's skills and experience but also reflects her unique qualities as a candidate. Using a modern CV template that’s ATS-friendly can save time, streamline the creation process, and ensure his CV has a polished, professional layout that recruiters and hiring managers will appreciate. 

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our CV templates for various tailored designs.

Boost your job application for a mechanical engineer job with a matching engineer cover letter.

What to include in a mechanical engineer CV? 

The perfect CV strikes a balance between professionalism, clarity, and individuality, ensuring it stands out while remaining easy to read. A strong mechanical engineer CV features the following essential sections:

1. Personal details on a CV: Start with your name, contact information, and professional LinkedIn profile or website portfolio link. 

2. Personal profile: A concise but impactful summary that highlights your experience, skills, and professional career goals. 

3. Key achievements: A standout section where you showcase measurable CV accomplishments directly related to the job description. 

4. Work experience: Detailing your most relevant positions with specific job titles, years of experience, and achievements. 

5. Education: Academic credentials, relevant degrees, and technical coursework. 

6. Skills: Focus on both technical expertise (like CAD software) and soft skills in a CV (like communication and teamwork). 

7. Additional sections: Include certifications, volunteer roles, or training to reinforce your relevance to the role. 

If you're stuck, refer to our master CV writing guide for detailed templates and tips to begin building your CV.

How to write a mechanical engineer CV in 5 key steps

1. What are key skills for a mechanical engineer?

Mechanical engineers require a blend of both hard and soft skills to excel in their roles. Hard skills include technical expertise such as proficiency in CAD software, knowledge of materials science, and an understanding of thermodynamics and structural analysis. Soft skills, on the other hand, involve effective communication, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and project management. It’s important to identify and highlight these skills in a dedicated section to showcase the full range of competencies required for success in this field.

Essential skills for a mechanical engineer with a definition

1. Problem-solving: Mechanical engineers need to identify problems and create practical solutions. This requires critical thinking and technical expertise to address complex challenges.

2. Technical proficiency: A solid grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics is essential. Skills in CAD software and simulation tools are crucial for designing and analysing systems. 

3. Project management: Effective project management involves organization, time management, and coordinating teams. Mechanical engineers often handle budgets, timelines, and resources to meet project goals. 

4. Communication: Engineers must communicate clearly with team members, present ideas to stakeholders, and write technical documents. Explaining complex concepts in simple terms is key. 

5. Creativity and innovation: Designing new solutions or improving systems requires creativity. Mechanical engineers should think outside the box to develop innovative products and processes.

Explore the following CV examples for more inspiration:

• Civil engineer CV

• Electrical engineer CV

• Renewable energy engineer CV

• Engineer CV.

Learn more about how to list skills on a CV.

2. How to write a personal profile for a mechanical engineer CV

A CV personal profile, also known as a personal statement, is a brief introduction at the top of your CV that highlights your skills, experience, and career goals. For a mechanical engineer, it should include your key technical skills (e.g., CAD software proficiency, problem-solving abilities), relevant experience in the field, and your professional objectives, such as contributing to innovative engineering projects or improving system efficiency. When writing your summary, make sure it is:

• 4–6 lines long 

• Tailored to the job description 

• Focused on your key strengths and career goals. 

Personal profile examples for your CV

Want more tips for preparing to apply for jobs after graduation? Explore our graduate CV example for further guidance.

Get more job interviews with a professional CV

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3.How to include practical work experience

In the work experience CV section for a mechanical engineer, use bullet points to clearly outline your responsibilities and achievements in past roles, making your experience easy to read and impactful. 

• Start each bullet point with strong action verbs like “designed,” “led,” or “implemented” to convey a sense of initiative and accomplishment. 

• Be specific and concise, highlighting the skills and contributions most relevant to the role you’re applying for. 

• Focus on measurable results, such as percentages, revenue growth, or other quantifiable outcomes, to show the value you brought to previous positions. 

When it comes to the struture of the work experience entry, follow these tips to make it easy-to-read:

• Use action verbs to demonstrate your contributions clearly.

• List years of experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent role.

• Include job title, company name, location, and dates.

Mechanical engineer CV work experience examples

Mechanical Maintenance Engineer, Precision Tools Inc., Birmingham, 2018-2023

Performed routine inspections and preventive maintenance on mechanical systems to ensure optimal performance and minimise downtime. Diagnosed and repaired equipment failures promptly, reducing operational disruptions and ensuring safety compliance. Directed a team of technicians, providing training on compliance and safety protocols. 

• Developed maintenance schedules to ensure peak performance of mechanical systems, reducing downtime by 15%. 

• Conducted diagnostics for mechanical failures, implementing repairs that improved system reliability by 25%.

Mechanical Designer Engineer, InnovateTech Solutions, London, 2018 - present

Create detailed technical drawings and specifications for manufacturing, ensuring seamless production processes. Work closely with cross-functional teams to prototype and refine new products.

• Designed and developed 3D models of mechanical components using CAD software, improving design accuracy by 20%. 

• Enhanced design workflows, leading to a 25% improvement in project delivery timelines.

Junior Mechanical Engineer, Steelworks Ltd., Manchester, 2024-present

Assist senior engineers with the design, testing, and implementation of mechanical systems, ensuring adherence to project specifications. Supported the development of technical documentation, including maintenance manuals and safety guidelines. 

• Collaborated with production teams to troubleshoot equipment issues, reducing downtime by 12%.

4. How to include education on a mechanical engineer CV

Educational qualifications are essential for mechanical engineering roles, so include relevant degrees and coursework. Consider adding any extracurricular activities or projects that demonstrate your skills and interest in the field. Don’t forget to list any certifications or training programs you have completed, as these can enhance your qualifications and showcase your commitment to continuous learning.

Are you graduating soon as an international student? Learn more about job opportunities for international students in the UK.

University degree example:

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, University of Birmingham, 2022

A level example:

A Levels, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, King Edward VI Grammar School, Essex, 2019

Apprenticeship example:

Manufacturing Engineer Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship, Worcestershire College, Worcester, 2020

Read more about how to list education on a CV.

5. How to add additional relevant information

You may choose to include additional details or examples in your CV to strengthen your application and provide further context. This can help highlight key achievements, demonstrate relevant skills, or clarify your experience. Adding supporting evidence, such as specific project outcomes or quantifiable results, can make your application stand out and give employers a clearer understanding of your qualifications and impact.

How to list courses and certificates

Highlight industry-recognised qualifications like Certified SolidWorks Professional or a Lean Six Sigma certification.  

How to format:

Course name, Issuer, Issued date (date of completion/in progress)

Example:

Level 3 Engineering, City & Guilds, 2023

How to list a placement year in industry

Including experience from your placement year can highlight your dedication to gaining practical skills and real-world experience. List relevant roles you held during your placement, such as managing projects, collaborating with teams, or contributing to key initiatives. Be sure to detail your responsibilities and the impact you made, as this will showcase your adaptability, work ethic, and ability to contribute to an organisation effectively.

Example:

Work student, Triumph Engineering Ltd., Liverpool, 2019-2020

Assisted in the design, testing, and analysis of mechanical components for industrial machinery, ensuring compliance with industry standards in line with university studies. 

Additional work experience can also help you build valuable contacts, expand your professional network, and develop work skills that will be essential when you start applying for graduate jobs. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and give you a head start in your career. Learn more about how to network to boost your job prospects.

Key takeaways

A well-written mechanical engineer CV could be the key to your next career move. By highlighting your skills, experience, and achievements while optimising layout and keywords, you'll be well-prepared to outshine the competition. Start creating your CV for as a mechanical engineer fresher or a senior with these proven tips!

Next steps?

Need a professional CV that opens doors? Sign up with CVMaker today and create your dream CV with ease, using our job-specific CV templates and expert tips. Explore our comprehensive career guides and articles to educate yourself on the most effective strategies for enhancing your job prospects. Plus, check out our interview blogs for guidance to ace your next opportunity! If you're ready to send your CV, don't forget to check these templates to send your CV via email to make a great first impression.

FAQs

What does a good engineering CV look like?

A tailored, concise CV that highlights key skills, achievements, and qualifications relevant to the mechanical engineer job description. Learn more about the ideal CV length.

Is mechanical engineering a good career in the UK?

Absolutely, mechanical engineering is a strong career choice in the UK. It offers diverse opportunities across industries like automotive, energy, aerospace, and manufacturing. With a steady demand for skilled professionals, competitive salaries, and clear career progression pathways, it’s a field where individuals can thrive both financially and professionally. Additionally, the growing focus on sustainability and renewable energy opens exciting new avenues for innovation in mechanical engineering.

Are mechanical engineers in high demand in the UK?

Yes, industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace actively seek professional mechanical engineers to lead innovation. Learn more about jobs that are in-demand in the UK.

What is the salary of a Mechanical Engineer in the UK?

Average salaries range from £30k for freshers to £70k+ for senior roles, depending on expertise and location.

What can I do with a mechanical engineering degree?

A mechanical engineering degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities. You can work in industries like automotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing, robotics, and more. Popular roles include design engineer, project manager, systems analyst, or research and development engineer. Learn more about how to become a mechanical engineer and career opportunities.