10 Essential Skills Every Engineering Lead Should Look for in New Hires

When it comes to assembling an exceptional engineering team, the right mix of skills can make all the difference. 

Imagine this: You're not just hiring employees; you're building the backbone of innovation and problem-solving within your organization. 

In fact, a 2024 report from TestGorilla found that 81% of employers are using some form of skills-based hiring in 2024 (up from 73% in 2023 and 56% in 2022).

But where do you start? 

What qualities should you prioritize to ensure your team is set up for success?

Today’s great engineers are not just code wizards but also agile problem-solvers and effective collaborators. You may ask what does a great engineer bring to the table? Here’s the answer– they bring creativity and innovation to the table while maintaining meticulous attention to detail. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the top traits you should be looking for in candidates and why they matter.

Ready to build your dream team? Let’s dive in!

1. Technical Proficiency: Naturally, this comes first. You're seeking individuals with a solid foundation in the relevant programming languages, as well as a deep understanding of engineering principles. When assessing technical skills, consider their practical knowledge of tools and technologies used in your specific domain.
2. Problem-Solving Acumen: Great engineers possess a natural ability to dissect a problem and devise creative, efficient solutions. Look for candidates who can demonstrate their problem-solving skills through past experiences or scenarios.
3. Adaptability and Flexibility: The tech world is ever-changing, so an individual's capacity to adapt to new technologies and methodologies is vital. A candidate who can show they've successfully navigated changes in previous roles is worth their weight in gold.
4. Strong Communication Skills: The myth of the solitary genius coder is just that – a myth. Effective collaboration and communication are essential for any successful engineering team. Seek out candidates who can articulate their ideas clearly and work effectively with others.
5. Leadership Potential: Even if the role you're hiring for isn't a leadership position, identifying individuals with leadership potential can be invaluable. The ability to guide others, take initiative, and inspire those around them can lead to strong team dynamics.
6. Project Management Skills: Engineers who understand the principles of project management can be incredibly valuable. Whether it's Agile, Scrum, or any other methodology, a solid grasp of project management principles can keep your team on track and focused.
7. Creativity and Innovation: The best engineering teams thrive on creativity. Look for candidates who have a track record of innovation and can bring fresh perspectives to your projects.
8. Attention to Detail: In the world of engineering, a small error can have huge repercussions. Attention to detail is a non-negotiable trait, so seek out candidates who demonstrate meticulousness in their work.
9. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: A great engineer isn't just someone who writes flawless code—they understand the human element too. Empathy and emotional intelligence are crucial for effective collaboration and team morale.
10. Continuous Learning Mindset: The tech world moves at a lightning pace, and the best engineers understand that learning is a lifelong journey. Look for candidates who have a thirst for knowledge and a history of continued learning and self-improvement.

Here’s More To Know

These essential skills are not only crucial for the success of your team but also critical for the overall growth and adaptability of your organization in the long run. 

In fact, a survey by CareerBuilder revealed that 75% of employers have experienced a negative impact from a bad hire in the past year. The same survey found that it takes an average of 42 days to fill a position and costs an average of $4,129. That's a hefty price to pay for the wrong fit!

By focusing on these essential skills, you're setting your team on the path to success. After all, a study by Deloitte found that organizations with a culture of learning are 92% more likely to innovate, 52% more productive, and have 37% higher employee productivity.

Remember, finding the perfect fit might take time, but the investment is worth it. Additionally, it's not just about finding the right individuals but also ensuring they are a great fit for your team's culture. 

Hence in a survey conducted by Glassdoor, 77% of adults would consider a company's culture before applying for a job there, and 56% of employees believe that a great workplace culture is more important than salary.

So, as you embark on the journey of growing your engineering team, keep these essential skills at the forefront. Your team's success hinges on the individuals you bring on board, so take the time to find those who embody these crucial traits. Happy hiring!