We've been hearing from some members that, despite putting qualifications in their job posting, they are receiving candidates who don't meet the criteria. To combat this, we suggest a few things when crafting your job posting:
- List the must-haves right at the top of the job description. When requirements are at the end, they can be glossed over or missed... so any essentials (certifications, local to the area, degree, etc) should be highlighted first thing.
- Use bullet points. Job seekers dedicate an average of 14.6 seconds to reading the requirements section of a job description, so it's important to make descriptions easy to scan. If you are posting to the job board, shorter job postings (around 300 words) receive more applications per view.
- Don't list "givens" like 'good communication skills,' 'team player', 'good attitude', etc.... Keep the requirements limited to the essential functions of the job.
- "Why is this a great opportunity" is the section to "sell" your job. Does your client offer a great work-life balance? Is the location in a good place to raise families with an exceptional school system? Are the job's perks and benefits above average?
Here is an example of a well-crafted job posting by one of your NPAworldwide partners:
❌ Do NOT Apply If You:
- Require visa sponsorship (H1B, TN, etc.)
- Have frequent short tenures or job-hopping with no long-term project experience
- Have no exposure to physical manufacturing environments or automation hardware
- Lack proficiency with Rockwell PLCs, HMI systems, and AutoCAD
- Do not hold a formal 4-year engineering degree
Roles and Responsibilities:
- Lead and support capital projects across the Rigid Paper and Closures Division.
- Drive automation improvements and production modernization.
- Troubleshoot and program PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and servo systems.
- Lead FAT/PAT installations, new machinery launches, and technical trials.
- Collaborate on technical design and tooling for manufacturing optimization.
- Travel to high-volume manufacturing sites, particularly Jackson, TN.
Job Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related discipline required)
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in high-speed automation, robotics, and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
- Advanced proficiency in Rockwell Automation systems including PLC programming, HMI development, and AutoCAD for layout and electrical schematics
- Proven track record in project management—from capital planning to full-cycle implementation in manufacturing environments
- Strong multidisciplinary integration skills, with expertise in both electrical and mechanical system troubleshooting and optimization
- Experience with robotic arms and machine automation is preferred
- Programming experience (PLC, HMI) is preferred
- Mechanical troubleshooting experience is preferred
- Familiarity with vision systems, servo drive systems is preferred
Interview Process
- Intro call with recruiter
- Interview with hiring manager
- Final onsite panel interview