Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes for keywords and clear structure. They rank or reject resumes based on keyword matches and readable formatting, so you need to optimize for those systems.

For a Building Services Mechanic, ATS looks for trade skills, tools, and certifications. Relevant keywords include HVAC, refrigeration, boiler maintenance, chiller repair, controls, PLC, RTU, preventive maintenance, blueprint reading, EPA 608, NFPA, OSHA, pneumatic controls, brazing, welding, and journeyman.

• Use standard section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills".
• List certifications with exact names and dates.
• Put technical skills in a plain bullet list.

Avoid complex layouts. Don’t use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, or graphs. ATS can skip content inside those elements.

Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Save as PDF or .docx unless the job asks for one format. Avoid heavily designed files with layered graphics.

Common mistakes cost interviews. People use creative synonyms instead of exact keywords. They hide critical skills in images or headers. They also drop required certifications like EPA 608 or OSHA 10, which makes ATS miss important matches.

Choose a clean, professional template with a reverse-chronological layout. This layout highlights your recent building systems work and dates, which hiring managers scan first. It also parses well in ATS.

Keep length to one page if you have under 10 years of trade experience. Use two pages only if you have long, directly relevant service records, licenses, and certifications.

Pick an ATS-friendly font like Calibri, Arial, Georgia or Garamond. Use 10–12pt for body text and 14–16pt for section headers. Keep line spacing at 1.0–1.15 and leave clear margins so the document breathes.

Avoid overly creative designs, heavy columns, or embedded graphics. They often break ATS parsing and distract the reader. Use clear headings like "Work Experience," "Certifications," "Skills," and "Education."

Common mistakes include too many fonts, tiny margins, and unclear dates. Don’t bury certifications or license numbers in paragraphs. List them under a dedicated Certifications or Licenses section so a technician can find them fast.

Structure each job entry with title, employer, location, and dates on one line where possible. Use 3–5 bullet points per role that start with action verbs and mention tools, systems, or measurable results. Keep formatting consistent across sections so your resume reads like one coherent document.

Why a tailored cover letter matters

Every Building Services Mechanic job has different priorities. A tailored letter shows you read the posting and explains how you match their needs. It complements your resume and shows genuine interest in the company.

Key sections and what to include

• Header: Put your contact details, the company name, and the date.
• Opening paragraph: State the Building Services Mechanic role you want, show enthusiasm for the company, and mention your top qualification or where you found the job.
• Body paragraphs (1–3): Link specific experience to the role. Highlight key projects, hands-on skills like HVAC repair, plumbing, controls troubleshooting, and certifications such as EPA 608. Name soft skills like teamwork and problem solving. Add numbers when you can, for example time saved or systems maintained.
• Closing paragraph: Reiterate interest in this exact role and company, state confidence in your ability to help, ask for an interview, and thank the reader.

Tone and tailoring

Keep your tone professional, confident, and friendly. Write like you speak to one person. Use short sentences and simple words.

Customize every letter. Use keywords from the job description. Avoid generic templates. Show you know the company and its facilities.

Quick writing tips

Open strong, give concrete examples, quantify when possible, and finish with a clear call to action. Read your letter aloud. Cut filler words. Keep it under one page.

When you apply for Building Services Mechanic roles, employers want clear proof you can keep systems running safely. Small resume errors can cost you interviews. Take a few minutes to tighten your wording and highlight the right skills.

Below are common mistakes specific to building services work. Each item shows a bad example and a quick fix you can use right away.

This set of FAQs and tips helps you shape a Building Services Mechanic resume that highlights your hands-on skills, safety record, and systems knowledge. Use these answers and tips to focus your experience, certifications, and measurable results for maintenance and repair roles.