Best STEM contractor traits: Hire right and avoid costly mistakes

Hiring freelance contractors can speed up the recruitment process compared to permanent hires. However, this comes with its risks—especially in STEM fields, where expertise, precision, and accountability are paramount. 

Many businesses face setbacks from missed deadlines or underqualified contractors stepping into vital positions. These issues aren't just frustrating; they can be costly, throwing off project timelines and budgets.

Choosing the right STEM contractor doesn’t just fill a seat—it can make or break your project’s success. So how do you find contractors who deliver real results?

In this article, we’ll explore the key traits of successful STEM contractors and help you discover: 

• The top traits of successful STEM contractors
• Why these qualities matter on your projects
• Practical tips to identify these traits when hiring

Why commitment and reliability matter most  

In STEM industries, technical expertise may get someone hired, but commitment and reliability keep projects on track. A contractor who disappears when things get tough or misses deadlines can jeopardise your entire timeline.

Top contractors consistently show up, take ownership, and deliver under pressure. For example, during a complex data upgrade with tight deadlines, a reliable contractor will adapt to changes and ensure everything’s ready for audit day.

Reliability means meeting deadlines without constant follow-up, spotting issues early, and becoming a trusted partner rather than a problem.

Bottom line: Commitment and reliability aren’t extras—they’re strategic assets that enable your team to work faster and with confidence.

Clear communication and problem-solving skills

STEM projects are complex, with multiple stakeholders and shifting priorities. You want to work with contractors who will communicate clearly, breaking down technical details into plain language everyone can understand.

When problems arise—as they inevitably do—top contractors don’t hide or get defensive. Instead, they explain the issue’s root cause and collaborate to find practical solutions.

For example, if something goes wrong mid-project, a technically competent contractor may spot the issue, but a great one will explain the root cause, walk you through the implications, and offer practical next steps.

In short, you don’t want a technician buried in code; you want a contractor with strong soft skills who communicates clearly, listens to the team, and adapts solutions to the bigger picture.   

Discover the essential soft skills every software engineer needs - Read this article now

Teamwork and leadership: More than just technical skills

STEM contractors have deep technical skills, but success also requires collaboration and leadership to elevate the team without overstepping.

Key traits include:  

• Collaboration: Attending meetings, sharing clear updates, and aligning timelines with other workstreams.  
• Risk awareness: Identifying potential risks and raising them respectfully, with clear recommendations.  
• Leadership without ego: Knowing when to lead, when to listen, and how to empower others without dominating.  

Leadership becomes even more important when a contractor’s role extends beyond delivery. Contractors who lead effectively can rally teams, empower specialists, and smoothly integrate into your organisation. This reduces friction and drives better decision-making.

Listen to our podcast on leadership in an era of tech transformation:

Flexibility and adaptability amidst changing tides   

Change is constant in STEM projects. Requirements evolve, technologies shift, and priorities can flip overnight.

The best contractors don’t just accept change—they thrive on it. For example, when new regulations arise, adaptable contractors assess impacts, revise plans, and find compliant solutions with minimal disruption.

Flexibility reduces project risk and keeps things moving—even when the path isn’t clear.

Are you a software engineer? Read our article on how to answer behavioural questions on your next job interview!  

Curiosity and eagerness to learn  

The best contractors understand that yesterday's knowledge won't solve tomorrow's problems. They’re naturally curious, ask insightful questions, and stay eager to learn, not for the sake of their CV, but to stay sharp and deliver better results. 

For example, imagine a contractor working on AI integration. During the project, a new open-source tool was released that could enhance the outcome, but it’s not part of the original scope. A curious contractor won’t overlook it. They’ll investigate, test it, and flag it to the team as a potential boost to performance, unlocking efficiency gains that weren’t initially considered. 

This mindset drives fresh thinking, resilience, and continuous improvement.

Balancing modern tech with traditional foundations

Innovations like AI and blockchain are exciting, but even the best contractors know these must be grounded in foundational principles.

Modern tools help with data organisation, automation, and analysis, but creativity and critical thinking come from human expertise.

The strongest contractors balance cutting-edge tech with proven problem-solving techniques to deliver reliable, sustainable solutions.

Prioritising quality over quantity   

Taking on multiple projects may seem efficient, but spreading too thin risks quality and deadlines.

Top contractors focus on delivering high-quality results by prioritising one project at a time. This focus avoids rushed testing or missed steps that cause costly setbacks.

You want contractors committed to your success, not just juggling tasks.

Data-driven mindset and a culture of knowledge sharing  

The best contractors understand that data isn’t just about measuring performance; it’s about learning from patterns, adjusting strategies, and optimising processes in real time. 

Key traits of data-driven contractors include:  

• Interpreting data: Analysing numbers to identify trends and actionable insights.  

• Informed decision-making: Using data to guide smarter project strategies.  

• Real-time optimisation: Adapting to new data and continuously improving outcomes.  

For example, a contractor working on a project that generates large amounts of data doesn’t just store it—they analyse it, identify trends, and suggest actionable steps. This approach ensures smarter decision-making and keeps the project on track. 

Equally important, they foster knowledge sharing—breaking down silos, collaborating openly, and contributing to the whole team’s success.

These contractors go beyond completing tasks—they actively contribute to the broader success of the team and the project. 

And of course, mastery of their craft  

No matter how well-rounded their soft skills, technical expertise is the foundation of any successful STEM project.

When hiring contractors for technical roles. look for: 

• Relevant certifications: Formal recognition of a contractor’s expertise. Certifications demonstrate technical capability and a commitment to staying current in an ever-evolving field.  

• Tools and software proficiency: Contractors must be proficient in the tools and platforms essential to your project, whether cloud platforms, data analytics software, or CAD tools. Familiarity with industry-standard tools boosts efficiency and reduces downtime.  

• Position-specific technical skills: Each STEM role requires unique skills. Your contractors should have expertise that directly aligns with the job role you need for your project, ensuring they can contribute effectively from day one. 

This can be assessed through competency-based questions during the interview process to gauge their practical skills in real-world scenarios.  

How can you find the best STEM contractors?  

Look beyond resumes. Seek contractors who combine technical mastery with reliability, communication, teamwork, and adaptability.

Review certifications, ask behavioural questions, and check references focused on delivery and collaboration.

Contact us today to connect with experts who will power your projects forward with confidence.