5 Ways to Stand Out in the Evolving STEM Job Market

Thinking about a job change? Given the fewer number of available STEM roles and layoffs happening today—be sure to make it count. Science, engineering, and technology are the most dynamic forces propelling our world into the future. In these ever-changing disciplines, the ebb and flow of innovation and evolution never ends. That constant change is also reflected in their respective job markets. 

But using this dynamic to your advantage is crucial to thriving as a professional in these technical industries. So, it’s key to arm yourself with the right strategies and insights to navigate your career with confidence. Use these five tips to help yourself stand out and transition seamlessly to a new role in today’s rollercoaster job market.

Showcase your expertise.

To shine among other candidates, you need to showcase your expertise. Make sure your resume and LinkedIn profile are up-to-date and accurately reflect your authority in the field. Include recent conferences or events you’ve attended, certifications you’ve earned, and articles or research studies you’ve published. Look for innovative ways to demonstrate your knowledge. For example, Kelly recruiters have noticed software engineers who publish their resumes on GitHub to reinforce credibility. Other candidates in science are exploring avenues to publish research they’ve done, to showcase their work in a context that clients already know and respect. These nuances make a big impression on hiring managers, who appreciate the difference.

Highlight your problem-solving abilities.

Employers in the science, engineering, and technology industries are always looking for individuals who can effectively solve problems. Use examples from your previous experiences to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities. This could be anything from overcoming challenges on a project to finding innovative solutions to complex issues. Be specific! Do some research on the companies you’re targeting. If you’re a sustainability engineer, for instance, submit an idea in your cover letter to address an issue in waste reduction or efficiency that the company is currently experiencing. In one clear example, you’ll demonstrate that you both understand the company’s challenges, and exactly how you can solve them.

Grow your skill set.

When thinking about a new role, consider expanding your skill set to be as competitive as possible. Look for free online courses, webinars, or training programs that could expand your skill set. Or take part in a hackathon or other community event that could help you build your knowledge. 

In fact, did you know that only 15% of qualified scientific candidates typically have the latest requirements? That’s why, for instance, we’ve developed the Kelly Certification Institute—a sustainable, virtual training and certification service that offers current certifications in GMP, GxP, data integrity, and other crucial requirements. You can show your talent backed by a strong, comprehensive certification history to gain an edge with employers.

Tailor your resume.

In today’s market, transferrable skills are key. Requirements and cultures vary widely across companies and different jobs, so tailoring your resume for each application will increase your chances of transitioning to your next role. Like with problem-solving above, research your ideal companies and jobs and adapt your resume and application to align. Don’t hesitate to ask an expert for help. More than 80% of Kelly recruiters have a background in the engineering, technology, or science and clinical fields they recruit for—so we understand your needs, speak your language, and know how your skills can transfer to new roles. 

We’re also experts in specific industry job markets, so we know what capabilities will stand out on your resume. And despite advances in job board algorithms, sometimes it also helps to get that human touch. As one candidate notes: 

 Build your network.

Networking is vital to navigating any job market, but it’s particularly advantageous recently, as a fewer number of STEM roles are becoming available. Attend professional events and conferences, join LinkedIn groups, and build relationships with key professionals in your industry. Connect with recruiters that specialize in your field, like the team at Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom to gain access to exclusive jobs and insider market information. 

 For example, we host exclusive events like the upcoming 3rd webinar in our (Ex)2: Expert Exchange series—The New Biomanufacturing Landscape: Discover the Skills You Need to Succeed. This event will connect biomanufacturing experts with industry leaders, fresh job opportunities, a vibrant community network, and the chance to meet directly with our Kelly recruiters in 1:1 sessions. Sometimes, it’s all about who you know, as another candidate confirms:   

With these tips in mind, you can truly set yourself apart in the technical worlds of science, engineering, and technology. To stay ahead of the competition, keep updated on the latest industry developments, and continuously work to improve your specialized skills and expertise. Finally, connect with experts like Kelly to ensure you put your best foot forward.