Want a stronger cover letter?

Use our extensive library of best cover letter examples as practical starting guides. You’ll also find ready-made content with our helpful Cover Letter Builder simply click, customize and download.

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How to Format Your Cover Letter

Visit our helpful cover letter format and writing guide for additional advice on how to customize your application, or read on to find civil engineering-related advice.

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  • Contact information:

    • Make sure your professional cover letter header matches your resume for a cohesive look. Include your name, phone number, and email.

  • Date and recipient's mailing information:

    • Visit the company’s directory to research the hiring manager and contact info. Add the date of writing, followed by the manager’s name, job title, and professional mailing address.

  • Greeting:

    • Begin the letter with a professional salutation. We prefer the following formal greetings: “Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,” “Hello, Mr./Ms. Last Name,” or the last resort, “To whom it may concern.”

  • Introduction:

    • Add the name of the position and company, how you learned about it, and one civil engineering skill or accomplishment to advertise your suitability in this opening paragraph.

  • Body:

    • Use one or two paragraphs to elaborate on one or two accomplishments listed on your civil engineer resume. The goal is to quantify your training further and prove your proficiency.

  • Closing statement:

    • In the final paragraph, reiterate your interest and qualifications. Express your eagerness to discuss your candidacy in an interview further.

  • Signature:

    • End the letter with a formal closing followed by your full name and, if applicable, your professional titles or certifications. Acceptable signatures include “Salutations,” “Best,” or “Regards.”

Use skills to personalize your civil engineer cover letter

These resume skills and accomplishments are the foundation to building a strong civil engineer cover letter. Highlight your soft skills, hard skills and technical skills to provide exceptional patient care and support within medical settings.

1
AutoCAD proficiency:

Using AutoCAD software to design engineering plans and drawings.

2
CAD software (e.g., Revit):

Familiarity with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software beyond AutoCAD, such as Revit for Building Information Modeling (BIM).

3
Construction management:

The skill to effectively plan, schedule and oversee construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

4
Construction materials testing:

Conducting tests on construction materials to ensure quality and durability.

5
Cost estimation:

Accurately estimating project costs, considering materials, labor, equipment and other factors.

6
Environmental impact assessment:

Ability to evaluate and minimize the environmental impact of construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with regulations.

7
Geotechnical engineering:

Expertise in assessing soil and rock properties to determine their impact on construction projects, including foundations and retaining structures.

8
Hydraulic engineering:

Proficiency in crafting water control and distribution systems, encompassing stormwater management and flood control tasks.

9
Project management:

Managing all aspects of civil engineering projects, including scope, budget, scheduling and resource allocation.

10
Quality control and assurance:

Implementing processes and protocols to maintain high-quality standards in construction and engineering projects.

11
Risk assessment and mitigation:

Identifying potential project risks and implementing mitigation strategies.

12
Structural analysis:

The ability to analyze and design structures to withstand various loads and environmental conditions, ensuring safety and stability.

13
Structural inspection:

Conducting inspections of existing structures to assess their condition and recommend maintenance or repairs.

14
Surveying:

Proficiency in land surveying techniques and equipment to gather data for project planning and design.

15
Transportation engineering:

Skill in designing efficient transportation systems, comprising roadways, highways and transit networks, to optimize traffic flow.

Free Civil Engineer Cover Letter Example

Dear Ms. Bailey:

Upon learning of your need for a Civil Engineer, I felt compelled to submit my resume for your review. With more than 16 years of experience in building and structure development, installation, modification and maintenance — as well as my superior project management and team leadership abilities — my talents would significantly benefit your organization.

My expertise lies in performing detailed feasibility studies, designing initial structure plans, adhering to defined budgets, and resolving issues or concerns while minimizing environmental impact. From determining project scopes and consulting with clients to overseeing comprehensive engineering functions and training and supervising teams, I successfully drive all phases of civil engineering projects from ground to finish.

Consider the following highlights of my qualifications:

1. Supervising all aspects of operations, development, and execution of a $25M bridge building project, a $23M roadway project and a $49M sewer rehabilitation project; obtained all necessary permits, addressed the public and various agencies regarding potential disruptions, and led weekly status update meetings with contractors and inspectors.

2. Reviewing and approving project drawings and specifications, preparing cost estimates, preparing proposals and schedules, and tracking expenses and deadlines to meet all deliverables.

3. Facilitating success for quality-focused projects through expertise in AutoCAD.

4. Utilizing superior organizational, interpersonal and motivational skills to propel projects and teams to peak results.

My superior knowledge and experience in civil engineering and project leadership will contribute immensely to the success of future projects with Surface International. I look forward to discussing the position in further detail. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Robert L. Rego

This cover letter is strong because it effectively communicates the applicant’s qualifications, experiences and enthusiasm for the position clearly and professionally. It’s personalized, showcases relevant skills and achievements and leaves a positive impression on the reader.

Add a Resume as a Foundational Base

A cover letter helps promote your resume — but your resume acts as an essential building block for your job search. This concise summary helps hiring managers trace your training, experience, skill development and accomplishments. The following help articles, online tools and samples can help you improve your resume.

Civil Engineer Cover Letter FAQ

What's the significance of tailoring my civil engineer cover letter?

Tailoring your cover letter to the job highlights your genuine interest and shows how your skills align with the role, increasing your chances of getting noticed.

How do I make my cover letter ATS-friendly for online applications?

Use keywords from the job description, keep formatting straightforward, and avoid graphics. This customization ensures applicant tracking systems (ATS) can scan and rank your application effectively.

Is it OK to mention projects not directly related to the job I'm applying for?

Yes, but focus on transferable skills. Emphasize how skills gained from other projects can benefit the prospective employer, even if the projects were in different domains.

Should I include action verbs in my cover letter?

Absolutely! Action verbs add impact and convey your achievements effectively. Use strong verbs like “managed,” “designed” and “implemented” to showcase your skills and contributions.

What's the ideal length for a civil engineer cover letter?

The best cover letters aim for one page. Keep it concise, highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences. A shorter, well-crafted cover letter will likely capture the reader’s attention.