Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Automation Engineers At Walmart
Alexander, a Manager of Automation Engineering at Walmart, suggests undergraduates consider internships and contract positions as entry points, emphasizing that "any internship…usually has a pretty good line towards full-time employment." The manager highlights the value of gaining experience and building connections, even if the initial role is not ideal, advising that "no experience is bad experience."
Internships, Entry-Level Positions, Networking, Contract Positions, Career Development
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Alexander Claiborne
Manager, Automation Engineering
Walmart
University of California, Santa Barbara
N/A
Environmental & Related Sciences
Automotive & Auto Parts, Technology
Operations and Project Management
Video Highlights
1. Internships offer valuable experience and often lead to full-time employment.
2. Contract positions provide a way to gain experience and network, even if they are temporary.
3. Don't limit yourself to only your ideal role; any experience can help you build connections and gain valuable skills for your career.
Transcript
What entry-level positions in this field might an undergraduate college student consider?
First, I'd recommend starting with internships. Look for engineering internships, data internships, or whatever might be available.
I don't have a lot of personal experience in this field, as it's been a couple of years since I was actively working in it. However, I did manage an intern this past summer. He was an engineering student at Chico State, about to enter his senior year.
It was a great experience for both of us. I enjoyed coaching him through certain aspects of the job, as I've mentioned in other parts of this interview. It was also interesting to see his approach to problem-solving.
Having an intern offers a lot of opportunities, providing a different perspective and a fresh look at tasks. I don't think this should be overlooked.
Any internship you can secure often leads to full-time employment if you perform well. So, don't rule out internships just because they aren't initially full-time positions.
Similarly, consider contract positions. Some people hesitate with roles that are six months to a year long, wanting something more permanent. However, the worst that can happen is you gain valuable experience.
You can also continue searching for other opportunities while in a contract role. For example, if you're three months into a six-month contract, you could be interviewing elsewhere. A new company might be willing to work with your timeline and offer you a position once your contract ends.
I know these answers are a bit general. I'm not sure about specific entry-level roles currently available, as I don't handle hiring.
Generally, I'd advise looking for these types of opportunities. Even if a role isn't exactly what you're looking for, it can help you get your foot in the door.
It can also help you build connections and networking for future references or letters of recommendation. Essentially, no experience is bad experience.
Keep your options open and see what's offered, perhaps at a local career fair. Even if it's not your ideal role, getting involved and seeing what's out there is beneficial.