Finding a Job

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.

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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.