Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software that scan resumes for relevant words and structure. They rank or filter resumes before a human reads them.

For a Building Maintenance Mechanic, ATS looks for skills like HVAC, electrical troubleshooting, plumbing, preventative maintenance, welding, PLC programming, CMMS use, lockout-tagout, and OSHA certification. If your resume lacks those exact terms, ATS may reject it even if you have the experience.

Follow these best practices so your resume parses correctly:

• Use standard headings like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills".
• Include keywords from the job posting naturally in your experience and skills.
• Avoid tables, columns, headers, footers, images, and text boxes.
• Use simple fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Save as .docx or a simple PDF unless the posting requests another format.

Write clear experience bullets. Start each bullet with an action verb. Mention tools and systems you used, like CMMS, multimeter, or PLC ladder logic. Add certifications and safety training with exact names and dates.

Common mistakes derail building maintenance resumes. Swapping exact keywords for creative synonyms can hide your skills from ATS. Fancy formatting, like multi-column layouts or embedded images, can scramble your text. Leaving out critical items, such as OSHA 10, EPA refrigerant certification, or CMMS experience, can drop your score.

Keep your file simple and honest. Match language from the job post when it fits your real skills. That helps both the ATS and the hiring manager find your fit quickly.

Pick a clean, professional template with a reverse-chronological layout. You fix mechanical systems and employers want to see steady work history and clear skills first.

Keep length to one page if you have less than 10 years of related work. Use two pages only if you have long maintenance contracts, certifications, or large systems experience to list.

Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt. Leave enough white space so each section feels separate and easy to scan.

List clear sections: Contact, Summary or Objective, Experience, Skills, Certifications, Education, and Tools or Equipment. Use standard headings and simple bullets for accomplishments and tasks.

Avoid fancy columns, images, or icons that break parsing. Keep dates on the right or aligned consistently so an ATS reads them reliably. Use plain bullet points and short action statements that show impact.

Watch common mistakes. Don’t use many colors or nonstandard fonts. Don’t cram every task into one dense paragraph. Don’t rely on long paragraphs of duties; show measurable results such as reduced downtime, cost savings, or completed projects.

Focus each experience bullet on what you did, the tools you used, and the result. Prioritize certified skills like HVAC, electrical troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. This layout helps hiring managers and systems find your key skills fast.

Why a tailored cover letter matters

A tailored cover letter helps you explain why you fit the Building Maintenance Mechanic role. Your cover letter lets you show genuine interest in the company and point to specific hands-on experience that your resume lists.

Key sections breakdown

• Header: Put your contact details and the employer's if you know them. Add the date.
• Opening paragraph: Name the Building Maintenance Mechanic job. Show real interest in the company. Mention one top qualification or where you found the posting.
• Body paragraphs (1–3): Link your past work to the job needs. Highlight key projects and tools you used, like HVAC, plumbing, or electrical. Show soft skills like problem solving and teamwork. Give numbers when you can, such as reduced downtime or lower repair costs. Mirror important words from the job posting.
• Closing paragraph: Restate your interest in the job and the company. Say you can contribute and propose a next step, like a call or interview. Thank the reader.

Tone and tailoring

Keep your tone professional and confident but friendly. Write like you would to a helpful coach. Use short sentences. Customize each letter; avoid copy-paste templates.

Writing tips

Start with a clear claim about what you offer. Use one strong example per paragraph. Quantify results when possible. End with a clear call to action. Proofread for errors and keep the length to one page.

When you apply for Building Maintenance Mechanic roles, small resume errors can cost you interviews. Hiring managers look for clear evidence you keep buildings safe, running, and code-compliant. Pay attention to wording, certifications, and measurable results. A few focused edits can make your skills obvious and relevant.

Below are common mistakes building maintenance mechanics make on resumes, with quick examples and fixes you can use right away.

If you work as a Building Maintenance Mechanic, this set of FAQs and tips will help you shape your resume. You'll find quick answers on skills, format, length, and how to show hands-on work and certifications.