Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are tools employers use to sort and filter resumes. They scan for keywords, standard sections, and file structure. An ATS can reject a resume for odd formatting or missing info.
For a Coal Tower Operator, you must include terms like coal handling, bulk material handling, conveyor systems, level sensors, PLC, preventive maintenance, lockout/tagout, MSHA, and OSHA. Use standard section titles like Work Experience, Education, and Skills. Avoid creative headers like What I Do or My Journey.
- Use plain text lists for skills and tools.
- Put certifications and safety training near the top.
- Use .docx or PDF files, and avoid heavy design.
Avoid tables, columns, headers, footers, images, and text boxes. These elements often confuse parsers. Stick to simple fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
Don’t swap exact keywords for synonyms. If the job asks for "lockout/tagout" write that phrase. Don’t hide skills in images or headers. Omitting critical terms like "conveyor motor troubleshooting" or "level sensor calibration" can stop your resume from reaching a human.