Pre-Employment Tests For Mechanical Engineers
Top Skills and Abilities:
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Information Ordering
- Mathematical Reasoning
Top 3 Tasks:
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports.
- Assist drafters in developing the structural design of products using drafting tools or computer-assisted design (CAD) or drafting equipment and software.
- Research, design, evaluate, install, operate, and maintain mechanical products, equipment, systems and processes to meet requirements, applying knowledge of engineering principles.
Overview
Mechanical engineering is a broad field that encompasses robotics, structural analysis, thermodynamics, and machine design. Mechanical engineers work in a variety of different environments, including government offices, architectural firms, and research labs. They have the option of taking a variety of paths after college, but the common thread of their work regardless of the path chosen is the study and application of machines and mechanical structures.
Education
Mechanical engineers are typically highly educated. Mechanical engineering coursework includes introductory classes such as math, physics, and design classes. Additionally, engineers can also sub-specialize in fields such as aeronautics, automotive mechanics, or acoustical mechanics, to name a few. As a result, work is relatively easy to find compared to other fields. Hiring managers seeking mechanical engineers should target applicants with advanced degrees and relevant work experience, as these are the two areas in which applicants have the ability to make themselves stand out in some form or fashion.
Assessments for Mechanical Engineers
Even in a field in which most applicants will be of significantly above average intelligence, aptitude tests are a great predictor of job success for mechanical engineers. Extremely high scores on aptitude tests like the Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) can reveal great potential in engineers without extensive work experience, and employers can use the CCAT to identify exceptional problem solvers.
Another test commonly administered to Mechanical Engineers is the Employee Personality Profile (EPP), a personality test that determines how well a candidate's traits match the requirements of engineering roles, including their drive to complete tasks and persistence to overcome challenges (associated with Achievement), attention to detail (associated with Consciousness), and problem solve (associated with Openness).
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Source: U.S. Department of Labor