Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools that screen resumes before a human reads them. They scan for keywords, dates, job titles, and standard sections. If your resume lacks expected terms, ATS may never show it to a recruiter.

For an Aircraft Engine Specialist you must match engine, inspection, and certification language. Use engine model names like CFM56, GE90, PW1000, and terms like turbofan, turboprop, FADEC, borescope inspection, overhaul, troubleshooting, NDT, AD compliance, and OEM service manuals.

• Use clear section titles: Work Experience, Education, Certifications, Skills.
• Put dates and employer names next to each role.
• List certifications like A&P, EASA Part-66, or specific OEM trainings.

Avoid complex layouts. Skip tables, multiple columns, text boxes, headers, footers, and images. ATS often misread those elements and drop content.

Pick standard fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Save as a simple .docx or well-made PDF. Don’t use heavily designed templates built for print portfolios.

Do not replace key terms with creative synonyms. For example don’t write "engine care" instead of "engine maintenance". Don’t hide dates or certifications in headers or footers. Always include key tools and methods like borescope, vibration analysis, torque specs, and service bulletins.

Follow these tips and you’ll get past the ATS and in front of the hiring manager.

Pick a simple, scannable template. Use a reverse-chronological layout when you list aircraft engine work and certifications first. That layout helps hiring managers and applicant tracking systems read your experience quickly.

Keep length tight. One page works for entry and mid-career techs. Use two pages only if you have many relevant engine overhauls, certifications, and military logbooks to show.

Choose an ATS-friendly font like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia. Use 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for headers. Keep margins at least 0.5 inches and use consistent line spacing for clear white space.

Use standard headings: Contact, Summary, Experience, Certifications, Technical Skills, Education, and Logbook or Projects. Put certifications and FAA ratings near the top so they stand out.

Avoid complex columns, embedded images, and heavy color. Those elements often break parsing and hide text. Simple bullet lists make qualifications easy to scan during pre-screening.

Watch common mistakes. Don’t paste scanned certificates as images instead of listing them. Don’t mix many fonts or sizes. Don’t squeeze text to fit more content at the cost of white space.

Keep bullets short and results-focused. Use action verbs like inspected, overhauled, calibrated, and troubleshot. Add clear metrics when you can, such as TBO compliance, reduction in AOG time, or engine hours logged.

Tailoring your cover letter for Aircraft Engine Specialist shows you match the role. It complements your resume and shows real interest in aircraft propulsion work.

Header: put your contact details, the company's name, and the date. If you know the hiring manager's name, include it.

Opening paragraph: start strong. State the Aircraft Engine Specialist title you want. Show genuine enthusiasm for the company. Mention your top qualification or where you found the job.

Body paragraphs: connect your hands-on experience to the job needs. Highlight key projects and skills. Mention specific tools like borescope inspection, turbine balancing, FADEC troubleshooting, or test-cell runs. Name soft skills such as problem solving and teamwork.

• Mention a project, test, or repair with numbers if possible.
• List the technical skills tied to the job ad keywords.
• Describe how you improved reliability, cut AOG time, or saved costs.

Use one to three short body paragraphs. Focus each paragraph on one main point. Keep language direct and concrete.

Closing paragraph: restate your interest in the Aircraft Engine Specialist role and the company. State confidence that you can add value. Ask for an interview or call. Thank the reader for their time.

Tone and tailoring: stay professional, confident, and friendly. Write as if talking to a colleague. Use short sentences and avoid generic templates. Mirror keywords from the job posting. Keep each letter specific to the employer.

Final tip: proofread for tight sentences and strong verbs. Swap in one or two company-specific details before sending.

When you apply for an Aircraft Engine Specialist role, hiring teams look for clear evidence of hands-on skills, safety focus, and technical knowledge. Small errors can cost you interviews, so you should polish each section and show exact results.

Below are common resume mistakes you should avoid, with concrete examples and fixes that match the aircraft engine field.

If you work on turbine engines, this set of FAQs and tips will help you craft a clear, focused Aircraft Engine Specialist resume. You'll find guidance on skills, format, length, and how to show maintenance, inspections, and certifications.