Finding the right engineer for your team can be a real headache. Endless resumes, countless interviews, and the risk of hiring the wrong person can drain resources and slow down progress. The solution? Engineering recruitment agencies.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to 17 of the best outsourcing companies for hiring engineers and break down their strengths, specialties, and what sets them apart.
17 Most-Reliable Engineering Recruitment Agencies
Here are the top 17 engineering recruitment agencies to help you find the talent that you might not reach on your own.
1. Genius
Genius specializes in recruiting top-tier engineering talent through on-the-ground sourcing and a strict vetting process, ensuring only the best candidates are shortlisted. Genius is ideal for US business owners who are looking for data engineers, software engineers, and other computer or code-related roles.
We source skilled engineers from the Philippines and Latin America and offer free interviews along with a 180-day satisfaction guarantee to ensure you find the right talent for your project.
Best Features
- Rigorous vetting process
- Free interviews
- Pre-screened applicants tailored to client needs
- Risk-free hiring
Expertise
- Data Engineers
- Software Engineers
- Full Stack Engineers
Cost: One-time 25% fee based on the talent’s first year salary.
2. Hays Engineering
Hays Engineering specializes in providing temporary engineering solutions for specific tasks or projects that your existing employees are unable to manage. They are licensed in multiple US states and can be certified in your state through NCEES. They also carry professional liability insurance to cover project risks.
Their expertise is in machinery and equipment design, intellectual property development, custom equipment, tooling, and process applications. They also offer 3rd party verification and design of business systems and equipment. Their services cover structures, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and automation.
Best Features
- Business consulting
- Training
- Compliance verifications
Expertise
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
3. Michael Page Engineering
Michael Page Engineering has over 40 years of experience in recruitment and operations across 37 markets. They partner with both multinationals and startups to source top engineering talent who will drive your organization forward.
Their experienced consultants, advanced technology, and rigorous screening ensure you get only the best candidates. They also work to improve your employer brand and help you refine your hiring strategies. Michael Page Engineering ensures inclusive hiring practices for a diverse and innovative workplace.
Best Features
- Industry expertise
- Market insights
- Global talent pool
Expertise
- Process Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
- Production Manager
Cost: Custom plans.
4. Kelly Engineering
Kelly Engineering is part of the top recruiting specialists in engineering with over 55 years of experience. They are ranked # 4 in engineering staffing providers in the US. They offer temporary staffing, permanent placements at scale, and full outsourcing. They analyze your business and emerging trends and build tailored solutions for your needs.
Best Features
- Custom solutions
- Recruiters have engineering backgrounds
- Advanced solutions – StatementworX
Expertise
- Automation Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Industrial Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
5. Randstad Engineering
Randstad Engineering is your partner for finding top talent in engineering and design. With a large pool of pre-qualified candidates, industry expertise, and deep insights into workforce dynamics, they simplify your recruiting and help you scale your workforce quickly and cost-effectively.
Their team of specialists, all with backgrounds in engineering, connects you with innovative and reliable engineers who can oversee any project through its life cycle. They offer comprehensive services – talent acquisition, expert advice, and payroll administration – so that your company thrives with the best talent.
Best Features
- 24/7 online platform
- Find workers fast with the Randstad app
- Turns your data into intelligent insights
Expertise
- Construction Engineers
- Energy Engineers
- Oil Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
6. Adecco Engineering & Technical
Founded in 1996, Adecco Engineering & Technical is a recruitment expert in technology and engineering. Using the latest recruiting technologies, Adecco helps organizations locate the most qualified engineering professionals to meet their specific needs.
With over 1,700 specialized recruiters across the country and decades of experience in staffing, Adecco Engineering combines industry expertise with the latest research to deliver top-tier staffing solutions. They are part of a Fortune Global 500 company and remain committed to excellence and customer service.
Best Features
- Award-winning safety team
- Custom workforce solutions
- Innovative tech and a data-informed approach
Expertise
- Automotive Engineers
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Technology Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
7. Robert Half Engineering
Robert Half Engineering is a leading global staffing and consulting firm founded in 1948 and specializes in connecting you with top engineering talent. Their Protiviti division offers expert consulting and advisory services for critical business challenges related to engineering like risk management, compliance, technology, and internal audits.
Robert Half Engineering provides executive search services to help companies find senior-level and specialized engineering professionals. Using a large network and deep industry expertise, they identify and place the best candidates for engineering roles.
Best Features
- Global consulting expertise
- Custom AI for quick candidate match
- Local specialists
Expertise
- Software Engineers
- Systems Reliability Engineers
- Data Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
8. Manpower Engineering
Manpower Engineering is known for its scientific engineering staffing solutions. They deliver tailored project solutions and professional resourcing to fit your business needs. With 320 offices across the US, they offer nationwide support. Their recruiters are degreed engineers with an average of 7 years of experience. This ensures they understand your needs and quickly connect you with specialized talent.
Best Features
- Workforce success index & Client insight tools
- Flexibility staffing
- Mature Worker Program taps into the talent of experienced workers
Expertise
- Mechanical Engineers
- Quality Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
9. NES Global Talent
Founded in 2012, NES Global Talent is a Philippines-based engineering staffing agency. They offer talent solutions from initial recruitment to onboarding. The company specializes in oil and gas, power, renewable energy, and infrastructure industries.
NES Global Talent employs strict screening processes and ensures compliance with local labor laws and international regulations. This includes thorough background checks, skills assessments, and certification verifications.
Best Features
- Global mobility
- Market insights & reports
- 100% compliant recruitment solution
Expertise
- Chemical Engineers
- Mining Engineers
- Construction Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
10. Spencer Ogden
Spencer Ogden sets the standard for an engineering staffing agency. They specialize in the global energy transition with a strong focus on renewables, which account for over 70% of their business. With offices in the UK, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Spencer Ogden offers top recruitment services for both contract and permanent roles.
Since 2010, their core values – people, accountability, collaboration, and excellence – have driven their success. They have a special focus on sustainability and their work with Seven Clean Seas and Cool Earth to fight plastic pollution and deforestation has made a positive impact on the environment.
Best Features
- 24/7 recruitment support
- Employer branding support
- Performance tracking and analytics
Expertise
- Infrastructure Engineers
- Sustainability Engineers
- Natural Resources Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
11. Sthree Engineering
Sthree Engineering is a top Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM ) professionals recruitment agency. They specialize in permanent and contract roles in the manufacturing, construction, and energy industries.
Since 1990, they helped organizations and professionals thrive by understanding their unique engineering needs. In 2023 alone, they matched 2,369 organizations with exceptional engineering experts.
Best Features
- Environmental responsibility
- Insights & research
- Support for compliance needs
Expertise
- Constructions Engineers
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Energy Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
12. Brunel
Brunel specializes in connecting organizations with niche, technical, and highly skilled engineers. They offer tailored staffing solutions whether you need an entire workforce or project-based engagements.
Operating since 1997, they use their global network of over 45 countries and 120 offices to provide expert talent for your staffing and workforce goals. With more than 12,000 specialists, they’re ready to meet your engineering staffing needs and help your business thrive.
Best Features
- Advanced recruitment techniques
- Global mobility
- Full legal compliance
Expertise
- Oil & Gas Engineers
- Energy Engineers
- Mining Engineers
Cost: Custom Plans.
13. Aerotek
For over 40 years, Aerotek has helped businesses grow and overcome engineering challenges. It provides staffing solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, and facilities maintenance. They offer expertise, solutions, and skilled engineering professionals from over 250+ offices across the globe.
Best Features
- Diversity, equity, & inclusion
- Corporate social responsibility
- Market insights
Expertise
- Aviation & Airport Engineers
- Manufacturing Engineers
- Construction Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
14. G.A.S. Global
G.A.S Global’s engineering recruiters understand industry standards and new certifications to evaluate candidates based on experience, expertise, and project specifics. With strong connections in the energy industry and a growing network of experts, GAS uses online advertising, job boards, email campaigns, and social media to find the best talent.
Their people-centered approach ensures ongoing success in matching the right engineering professionals to the right roles.
Best Features
- Updated database of resumes
- Market research
- Free consultation
Expertise
- Energy Engineers
- Electrical Engineers
- Infrastructure Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
15. Belcan
Belcan is an engineering staffing agency with over 4,000 skilled professionals. With decades of experience and multi-industry expertise, they deliver qualified engineering candidates exactly when needed.
As a global leader in engineering services, Belcan partners with you to drive success at every project stage, from analysis and design to validation and beyond. They offer both full-time and contract engineers, which gives you the flexibility to accelerate timelines and achieve business goals.
Best Features
- Worldwide support
- Full compliance with safety standards
- Customer-driven solutions
Expertise
- Product Engineers
- Software Engineers
- Digital Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
16. Experis Engineering
Experis Engineering combines top technical skills with soft skills for their digital engineering talent. They offer recruitment, project, and talent management solutions to help organizations build teams ready for the digital age. As a global leader, they transform digital infrastructure, enterprise applications, cloud, and cybersecurity for businesses.
Best Features
- Expert advisory services
- Flexible technology solutions
- Equip professionals with skills
Expertise
- Data Engineers
- Cloud Infrastructure Engineers
- Cyber Security Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
17. Omega Resource Group
Omega Resource Group has over 27 years of success in recruiting for the engineering sector. Their skilled consultants are backed by a dedicated Account Manager to meet your unique needs.
They use a database of over 600,000 contacts and social media to find quick and reliable engineering resources. They use cutting-edge recruitment tools so you can find the perfect match and focus on achieving your business goals with confidence.
Best Features
- Full headhunt approach
- Market-leading technology
- Brand protection
Expertise
- Energy Engineers
- Aerospace Engineers
- Automation Engineers
Cost: Custom plans.
When Is It Best to Work With An Engineering Recruitment Agency?
It’s best to work with recruitment agencies during these times to overcome staffing challenges in engineering:
- If your company is launching a new data analytics project, hire a data engineer.
- When expanding your manufacturing operations, bring in a manufacturing engineer.
- If you need to improve your production efficiency, recruit a process engineer.
- For large-scale infrastructure projects, hire a civil engineer.
- When developing new electrical systems, bring in an electrical engineer.
- If your company is entering the aerospace market, recruit an aerospace engineer.
- When implementing sustainable practices, hire an environmental engineer.
- For construction management and site supervision, bring in an on-site engineer.
- If you need expertise in software development for engineering applications, hire a software engineer.
- When addressing compliance and quality control in production, recruit a quality assurance engineer.
- If your company is undertaking a new product design, bring in a mechanical engineer.
8 Factors To Consider When Deciding What Engineering Recruitment Agency To Hire
Here are 8 factors you should consider when hiring an engineering recruitment firm:
I. Reputation and Track Record
Check the reputation and track record of an agency to ensure they can deliver high-quality candidates, provide reliable service, and meet your specific needs.
Here are 4 ways to work with engineering recruiting experts with a proven track record:
- Read testimonials and reviews from previous clients on the agency’s website, Google, or professional networking sites like LinkedIn. This will help you know their client satisfaction and the agency’s effectiveness in placing quality candidates.
- Request case studies or success stories from the agency that show their success in placing candidates in similar roles or industries.
- Check if the agency has received any industry awards or recognitions. This indicates their reputation and excellence in the recruitment field.
- Verify if the agency is a member of relevant professional associations or holds industry certifications like the American Staffing Association (ASA) or the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC). This validates their high standards and ethical practices.
II. Specialization
Some agencies focus on particular engineering fields, which means they have in-depth knowledge and a network of candidates within that niche. Choosing an agency that specializes in your specific industry can help find better matches and hire more efficiently.
For example, if you need experts in data engineering, an agency like Genius might be a good fit because they have extensive experience in placing candidates in data engineering, software engineering, and other computer or code-related roles.
III. Candidate Pool Quality
Assess the quality of their candidate database. Inquire about their sourcing and vetting processes to ensure they provide highly qualified professionals.
You can ask these questions to your engineering staffing agencies:
- What is the average level of experience and qualifications of the engineers in your candidate pool?
- How do you source and screen your engineering candidates?
- Can you provide examples of successful placements in similar roles or industries?
- What percentage of your placed candidates stay with the employer for more than one year?
- Do you have access to niche or specialized engineering talent, and how do you ensure they are up-to-date with the latest industry standards and technologies?
- Can you share client testimonials or case studies that highlight the quality of your engineering candidates?
- How do you verify the technical skills and competencies of your engineering candidates?
- What is your process for matching candidates with specific job requirements and company cultures?
- How do you support continuous learning and professional development for your engineering candidates?
- Can you provide references from clients who have hired engineers through your agency?
IV. Range of Services
Consider the range of services offered. Make sure they provide different options for your staffing needs like temporary, permanent, and contract-to-hire options.
V. Cost and Pricing Structure
Understand their pricing model. Compare costs with other agencies and make sure there are no hidden fees. It’s best to balance cost with the quality of service provided.
Here are pricing models you can verify with the hiring managers of an engineering staffing agency:
- Contingency Fee: The agency charges a fee only when a candidate is successfully placed, typically a percentage of the candidate’s first-year salary.
- Retainer Fee: The client pays an upfront fee to retain the agency’s services, with additional payments made at various stages of the recruiting process.
- Hourly Rate: The agency charges an hourly rate for the time spent on recruitment activities, providing a more flexible and transparent pricing structure.
- Flat Fee: The agency charges a fixed fee for each placement, regardless of the candidate’s salary or position level.
- Contract Staffing: The agency charges a markup on the hourly rate of temporary or contract employees, covering their recruitment, administrative costs, and overheads.
VI. Client Support and Communication
Choose an agency that offers excellent client support, is responsive, and keeps you informed throughout the hiring process.
Look for these 5 tools to ensure the agency has good client support and communication:
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems like Salesforce or HubSpot help the agency manage interactions with you, track communications, and maintain detailed records of your preferences and needs.
- Advanced Applicant Tracking System (ATS) like Bullhorn or Greenhouse streamlines the recruitment process, keeps you updated on candidate progress, and manages applications efficiently.
- Client portals provide a dedicated online space where you can access real-time updates, track the status of their recruitment projects, and communicate directly with the recruitment team.
- Project management tools like Trello, Asana, or Monday.com help the agency manage recruitment projects, assign tasks, set deadlines, and keep you informed about the progress of their hiring needs.
- Look for agencies that provide detailed reports and analytics on recruitment activities. Tools like Tableau or Power BI can generate comprehensive reports on hiring metrics, candidate quality, and process efficiency, ensuring you stay informed and supported throughout the recruitment process.
VII. Geographical Reach
Consider whether the agency has a local, national, or international reach. This can help if your projects span multiple locations or require specific regional expertise.
Follow these 3 steps to know the geographical reach of an engineering recruitment agency:
- Check the agency’s website for a list of their office locations.
- Request a portfolio or case studies from the agency that highlight their past and current clients, especially focusing on the geographical locations of these projects.
- Inquire about the size and diversity of their candidate database, including the geographical distribution of their talent pool.
VIII. Cultural Fit
Make sure the agency understands your company culture and values. A good cultural fit ensures long-term employee satisfaction and retention.
Here are 5 ways to check the cultural fit with your engineering recruitment agency:
- Compare the agency’s core values and mission statement with your own to see if they align.
- Ask the agency to complete a survey that covers various aspects of their company culture like communication styles, work environment, and team collaboration.
- Read through testimonials and case studies from the agency’s past clients and candidates. Look for recurring themes and values that match your company’s culture.
- Have a conversation with the recruiters from the agency. Ask about their approach to recruitment, how they handle conflicts, and their views on work-life balance and employee engagement.
- If possible, visit the agency’s office to observe the work environment and meet their team. Pay attention to how employees interact with each other and the overall atmosphere.
Interview Questions To Ask Engineering Recruitment Agencies & Candidates
To pick an engineering recruitment agency and evaluate potential candidates, ask these questions to find a good fit for your company:
Questions to Ask Agencies
1. What is your experience in sourcing candidates for [specific engineering field]?
Ideal Answer: “We have over 10 years of experience sourcing candidates specifically for civil engineering roles, with a strong network of qualified professionals in this field.”
2. Can you explain your candidate vetting process?
Ideal Answer: “Our vetting process includes thorough technical assessments, background checks, and detailed reference checks to ensure candidates meet our high standards.”
3. How does your recruitment team stay updated on industry trends and requirements?
Ideal Answer: “We regularly attend industry conferences, subscribe to engineering journals, and engage with professional networks to stay current on the latest trends and requirements.”
4. What is your success rate in placing candidates in long-term positions?
Ideal Answer: “Our success rate is over 90%, with most of our placements successfully transitioning into long-term roles.”
5. How do you handle urgent hiring needs?
Ideal Answer: “We have a dedicated team for urgent placements, allowing us to quickly match qualified candidates with immediate job openings.”
6. Can you provide client testimonials or case studies?
Ideal Answer: “Yes, we can share several client testimonials and case studies that highlight our successful placements and satisfied clients.”
7. What industries do your candidates typically come from?
Ideal Answer: “Our candidates primarily come from sectors such as construction, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing, ensuring a diverse pool of talent.”
8. How do you ensure a cultural fit between candidates and companies?
Ideal Answer: “We conduct in-depth interviews to understand both the candidate’s and the company’s culture, ensuring a good match beyond just technical skills.”
9. What is your fee structure and what services does it include?
Ideal Answer: “Our fee structure is based on a percentage of the candidate’s first-year salary and includes services like candidate sourcing, vetting, and initial onboarding support.”
Questions to Ask Candidates:
1. Can you describe your most recent engineering project and your role in it?
Ideal Answer: “In my last project, I led the design and implementation of a new HVAC system for a commercial building, ensuring compliance with all regulations and completing it on time and within budget.”
2. How do you stay updated with the latest developments in your field?
Ideal Answer: “I regularly attend industry seminars, take online courses, and participate in professional organizations to stay current with new technologies and methodologies.”
3. What engineering software are you proficient in?
Ideal Answer: “I am proficient in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and MATLAB, which I use regularly in my design and analysis work.”
4. How do you handle tight deadlines and high-pressure situations?
Ideal Answer: “I prioritize tasks, maintain clear communication with my team, and stay organized to effectively manage tight deadlines and high-pressure situations.”
5. Can you provide examples of how you solved a challenging engineering problem?
Ideal Answer: “In a recent project, we faced an unexpected materials shortage. I researched alternatives, conducted cost-benefit analyses, and proposed a viable substitute that met all project specifications.”
6. How do you ensure your work meets quality standards and regulations?
Ideal Answer: “I follow a strict quality control process that includes regular audits, peer reviews, and adherence to all industry regulations and standards.”
7. What motivates you in your engineering career?
Ideal Answer: “I am motivated by the challenge of solving complex problems and the opportunity to innovate and improve existing systems and processes.”
8. How do you approach teamwork and collaboration on engineering projects?
Ideal Answer: “I believe in open communication, respecting diverse viewpoints, and leveraging each team member’s strengths to achieve the best results.”
9. What are your long-term career goals?
Ideal Answer: “My long-term goal is to become a lead project engineer, where I can oversee large-scale projects and contribute to the strategic direction of the company.”
10. Why are you interested in this particular role and company?
Ideal Answer: “I am impressed by your company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, and I believe this role aligns perfectly with my skills and career aspirations.”
Conclusion
Finding the perfect candidate for an engineering role with the right mix of technical expertise, hard skills, and soft skills is a lengthy and complex process. Engineering recruitment agencies can simplify this process for you. Just pick an agency from the list above that fits your needs, and you’ll be on your way to hiring the best candidates for your engineering jobs.
For data engineering, software engineering, and code-related works, there is no better option than Genius. Our on-the-ground sourcing strategy gives us access to the top 1% of talent. Fill out this form now and start hiring.
FAQs
What are the benefits of agencies?
Agencies provide access to a network of qualified candidates, streamline the recruitment process, and offer expertise in matching the right talent with the right job quickly and efficiently.
What is the difference between a firm and an agency?
A firm refers to a business offering professional services, while an agency specifically focuses on recruiting and placing candidates in various roles for other companies.
Should you pay a talent agency?
Yes, talent agencies charge fees for their services, which can be structured as a percentage of the candidate’s salary or a flat fee, reflecting the value they provide in finding and vetting qualified candidates.
How do I know if a company is an agency?
A company is an agency if its primary business is to recruit, screen, and place candidates in job roles for other businesses, often offering specialized services in industries or job functions.
