How an Engaged Search Works
Four phases. One goal: the right engineer in the right seat.
Phase 1
Role Clarity Assessment
90-minute structured diagnostic with hiring manager and key stakeholders. Analysis across 10 dimensions: context & current need, role definition & scope, success criteria & expectations, team & reporting structure, clarity of need, role boundaries, hiring risk factors, candidate profile alignment, employer self-assessment, and readiness & engagement. Written report delivered within 5 business days.
- A comprehensive role definition document
- Ideal candidate profile with weighted success criteria
- Compensation benchmark with market data
- Organizational fit analysis
- Hiring risk assessment
If you decide not to proceed with the search, you keep the report and owe nothing further. The engagement fee is credited 100% against the placement fee if you do proceed.
Phase 2
Targeted Sourcing
Sourcing through clearance-verified networks and direct engineering relationships. Outreach to passive candidates who aren't on job boards. Technical screening against RCA dimensions. Clearance verification where applicable.
- Direct outreach to passive candidates through trusted networks
- Senior engineering professionals in A&D don't respond to job board listings. They respond to trusted introductions from people they've worked with. That's our network.
The Signal Bonus advantage: When we approach passive candidates, we can say something no other firm can: "If this placement succeeds, you'll receive a Signal Bonus at Day 90, because we believe your commitment to this process has value." That opens doors that cold outreach doesn't.
Phase 3
Candidate Presentation
3–5 pre-qualified candidates presented. Each candidate scored against RCA dimensions with alignment report. Detailed technical and leadership assessment for each candidate. Interview coordination and debrief support.
- Structured candidate profiles scored against your RCA dimensions
- Detailed technical and leadership assessments
- Interview coordination and debrief support
Every candidate is evaluated against the specific dimensions defined in YOUR Role Clarity Assessment, not a generic job description. And every candidate knows they'll be rewarded for seeing the process through. That means fewer ghosted interviews, more thorough preparation, and better decisions.
Phase 4
Placement & Guarantee
Offer negotiation support and compensation benchmarking. Onboarding transition guidance. 90-day performance check-ins. Signal Bonus paid to candidate at Day 90 milestone.
- Offer structuring and negotiation support
- Candidate transition management
- 90-day performance check-ins
- Signal Bonus paid to placed candidate at Day 90
If the hire doesn't work out within 90 days, Synterra re-engages the search at no additional engagement fee. At Day 90, the placed candidate receives a cash bonus funded by Synterra, reinforcing their commitment and creating a lasting positive association with your company and ours.
Our Guarantee
If the placement doesn't work out within 90 days, we re-engage the search at no additional engagement fee. Average time to fill: 30-60 days from engagement to an accepted offer.