In the competitive job market, especially in industries like commercial construction, industrial construction, manufacturing, marine, and renewable energy, standing out as a candidate is critical. However, before your resume even reaches a hiring manager, it often must pass through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Understanding how these systems work and tailoring your resume accordingly can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview.

What Is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software employers use to streamline the hiring process. It automates tasks such as posting job ads, collecting applications, and screening resumes. ATS organizes and stores candidate information in a searchable database, allowing recruiters to filter applicants based on specific criteria like skills, experience, or keywords from the job description.

For job seekers, this means that a machine first evaluates your resume before being reviewed by a human. If your resume isn’t optimized for the ATS, it may never reach the hiring manager—even if you’re a highly qualified candidate.

How Does an ATS Work?

When you apply for a job online, the ATS scans your resume for relevant information such as:

  • Keywords that match the job description
  • Skills and qualifications
  • Job titles and work experience
  • Education background

The system may also rank candidates based on how well their resumes align with the job requirements. Resumes that don’t meet the system’s criteria are often filtered out automatically.

Tips to Tailor Your Resume for ATS Success

Here are actionable steps to optimize your resume so it passes through an ATS and gets noticed by hiring managers:

  1. Use Relevant Keywords
  • Carefully review the job description and identify keywords related to required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
  • Incorporate these keywords naturally throughout your resume in sections like “Skills,” “Work Experience,” and “Professional Summary”.

Here are some examples of relevant keywords tailored to specific industries that job seekers can use to optimize their resumes for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS):

Construction and Skilled Trades

  • Hard Skills: Blueprint Reading, Heavy Equipment Operation, Carpentry, Masonry, HVAC Installation, Welding, Roofing
  • Certifications: OSHA 30, NCCER Certification, Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
  • Soft Skills: Safety Compliance, Team Leadership, Project Coordination

Manufacturing and Warehouse

  • Hard Skills: Assembly Line Operations, Material Handling, Forklift Operation, Inventory Management, Troubleshooting Machinery Issues
  • Certifications: Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma Certification
  • Soft Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Process Improvement

Marine Industry

  • Hard Skills: Marine Welding, Ship Repair, Electrical Systems Maintenance, Navigation Equipment Installation
  • Certifications: Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) Certification
  • Soft Skills: Problem-solving, Adaptability in Challenging Environments

Renewable Energy

  • Hard Skills: Solar Panel Installation, Wind Turbine Maintenance, Energy Auditing
  • Certifications: NABCEP Certification (Solar), Wind Energy Technician Certification
  • Soft Skills: Environmental Awareness, Technical Troubleshooting

By naturally incorporating these keywords into sections like “Skills,” “Work Experience,” and “Professional Summary,” applicants can improve their chances of passing ATS filters and catching the attention of hiring managers. Always tailor the keywords to match the specific job description for the role you’re applying to.

  1. Keep Formatting Simple
  • Avoid using complex formatting elements such as tables, columns, headers/footers, graphics, or images. These can confuse the ATS and make parts of your resume unreadable.
  • Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman and use clear section headers like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.”
  1. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job
  • Customize your resume for every application by aligning it with the specific job description. Highlight experiences and skills that directly match the role.
  • Use both long-form terms and their acronyms (e.g., “Certified Public Accountant (CPA)”) to ensure compatibility with different ATS configurations.
  1. Create a Skills Section

Include a dedicated section for core competencies or technical skills that match the job requirements. This makes it easier for the ATS to identify your qualifications quickly.

Here are examples of skills to include in the Skills Section of your resume, tailored to industries like construction, manufacturing, marine, and renewable energy:

Construction and Skilled Trades

  • Blueprint Reading
  • Heavy Equipment Operation (e.g., bulldozers, cranes)
  • Carpentry and Masonry
  • HVAC Installation and Repair
  • Welding (e.g., MIG, TIG, Arc)
  • OSHA Compliance
  • Project Management

Manufacturing

  • CNC Machine Operation
  • Quality Control and Inspection
  • Lean Manufacturing Principles
  • Forklift Operation
  • Assembly Line Efficiency
  • Troubleshooting Machinery

Marine Industry

  • Marine Welding and Fabrication
  • Electrical Systems Maintenance (e.g., navigation systems)
  • Ship Repair and Retrofitting
  • Hydraulic System Repairs
  • Rigging and Crane Operations

Renewable Energy

  • Solar Panel Installation
  • Wind Turbine Maintenance and Repair
  • Battery Storage Systems Knowledge
  • Energy Auditing and Efficiency Analysis
  • Grid-Tied and Off-Grid Systems Installation

General Skills for All Industries

  • Safety Compliance (e.g., OSHA 30 Certification)
  • Team Collaboration and Leadership
  • Problem-Solving in High-Stress Environments
  • Time Management for Project Deadlines

These skills should align with the job description and industry standards. Including a mix of technical skills (hard skills) and transferable abilities (soft skills) ensures your resume is both ATS-friendly and appealing to hiring managers.

  1. Submit in the Right File Format

Most ATS systems prefer .docx or PDF files without special formatting. Check the application instructions to confirm which format is acceptable.

  1. Avoid Overloading with Keywords

While keywords are essential, don’t overstuff them into your resume unnaturally. The content should remain straightforward and easy to read for both the ATS and human reviewers.

  1. Proofread Thoroughly

Spelling errors or typos can prevent an ATS from recognizing critical keywords or phrases. Double-check your resume before submitting it.

Why This Matters in Skilled Trades

In industries like construction or manufacturing, where roles often demand specific certifications or technical expertise, ensuring these qualifications are clearly listed can make or break your application’s chances of passing through an ATS. For example:

  • If applying for a welding position in industrial construction, include certifications like AWS (American Welding Society).
  • Highlight technical skills such as solar panel installation or wind turbine maintenance for renewable energy roles.

By optimizing your resume for ATS systems, you not only increase its visibility but also demonstrate attention to detail—an essential trait in skilled trades.

Final Thoughts

Applicant Tracking Systems are here to stay as employers seek efficient ways to manage high volumes of applications. By understanding how these systems work and tailoring your resume accordingly, you can ensure that your application stands out—not just to the software but also to hiring managers.

For skilled trades professionals seeking opportunities in demanding industries like construction, manufacturing, marine, or renewable energy, an ATS-friendly resume is more than just a document—it’s your ticket to getting noticed in a crowded field. Take the time to optimize your application materials today and open doors to exciting career opportunities tomorrow!

At Gillmann Services, we specialize in connecting skilled trades professionals with top employers in these industries. Whether you’re looking for your next role or need help navigating the job application process, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to explore job opportunities tailored to your skills and experience!