This section contains handy recruiting tools and advice to help future transportation professionals find a job such as recruiting search engines and agencies, Canadian transportation-related companies, engineering associations, tips to building an efficient transportation-related résumé, and preparing for an interview.
Click on the spreadsheet (insert file size) to obtain additional information.
Building an Efficient Transportation-Related Résumé
Format Résumé Wisely
- use a logical format including wide margins, readable font and clear headings
- apply bold and italic typeface selectively to help guide the reader's eye
- use bullets to call attention to important points (i.e. accomplishments)
Focus on Technical Knowledge of Transportation Engineering in Canada
- latest software for specialized fields (such as MEPDG for pavement engineering, Synchro for traffic or road safety engineering)
- Canadian guide or practice ( e.g. TAC Guide for Pavement Asset Design and Management, ITE Canadian Capacity Guide for Signalized Intersections)
Identify Accomplishments not Just Job Descriptions
- include a brief job description first, then list your accomplishments
- list the benefits of your accomplishments
- avoid using generic descriptions of jobs and be specific
Quantify Your Accomplishments
- include and highlight specific achievements that present a comprehensive picture of your marketability
- quantify achievements by listing examples of interest percentages, dollars, number of employees
Preparing for an Interview
- Research all aspects related to the job description to enable you to perform any required tasks in the interview process.
- Learn about what the company does on a high-level basis and details of the specific department/division listed in the job posting.
- Research corporate objectives, values, history, area(s) of work, and organizational structure.
- Bring a list of questions you might have to ask at your interview; remember, interviews are a two-way process.
- Review previous work experience and know the details of your projects.
- Study any notes or textbook material relating to the job description; transportation engineering technical questions and problem-solving skills are often involved.
Final Thoughts
- Make sure you do your homework before going into an interview.
- Understand the job description and technical expectations of the job. Explain your technical strengths and how they match the position. Prepare yourself to answer this question: "Why should we hire you?"
- Target your résumé for the job you are applying for.
- Do not put anything in your résumé that you are not prepared to talk about.
Presentation and Résumé
- If there is a presentation during the interview, prepare and practice before your interview day.
- Take copies of the presentation with you, as well as your résumé and any other examples of your work relevant to the job posting.
Plan Your Interview Day
- How will you get to your interview?
- Is there any parking?
- Is it close to public transport?
- Do you have the company's address and important contact details?
- Do you have a street map?
Remember, knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and recognizing your areas of development shows maturity and awareness of your skillset.
