Imagine stepping into your new engineering role, not feeling anxious or unsure, but armed with a solid plan that makes you stand out right away.
You’re self-assured. Your boss is taken aback. Your colleagues view you as a leader from the very first day.
That’s the magic of the 30-60-90 Day Plan—and if you’re a recent engineering grad or just starting out, getting the hang of it could be the game-changer that puts you ahead of 95% of your peers.
The 30-60-90 Plan is a straightforward yet effective strategy that demonstrates your seriousness, organisation, and initiative.
It clearly defines your goals for the first 30, 60, and 90 days in a new position. This approach isn’t limited to managers; engineers of all kinds—whether in software, mechanical, or civil fields—can leverage it to make a strong impression right from the start.
Most importantly, it signals to employers that you’re more than just another employee—you’re a valuable asset who offers clarity and dedication.
A Sample 30-60-90 Plan for a Mechanical Engineer
First 30 Days
- Acquire knowledge of internal design and documentation tools
- Observe senior engineers during active projects
- Examine previous project case studies
- Engage in safety and compliance training
Next 30 Days (31–60)
- Commence the creation of designs for minor components while under supervision.
- Engage with the QA and Production teams to gain insight into the complete workflow.
- Propose enhancements to the format of design documentation.
Final 30 Days (61–90)
- Independently provide a component design by the specified deadline.
- Facilitate a design review session with the team.
- Offer three recommendations to enhance manufacturing cost efficiency.
- Strategize for long-term development (such as CAD proficiency, industry certification, etc.)
This framework can be tailored to roles in software, civil, electrical, or even electronics engineering.
Why Employers Love It
The majority of engineering candidates tend to wait for instructions on what actions to take.
However, if you arrive with a 30-60-90 Plan:
✅ You exhibit leadership qualities and initiative.
✅ You indicate that you are both coachable and competent.
✅ You simplify your manager’s responsibilities (a significant advantage).
✅ You leave a lasting impression during interviews and onboarding.
