Pick a simple layout that shows your job history and skills clearly. Use reverse-chronological order so your latest carpentry jobs come first and hiring managers can scan experience fast.
Keep length tight. One page fits most carpenters with up to 10 years of experience. Use two pages only if you have long, directly relevant project history and certifications.
Use standard fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt. Keep line spacing at 1.0–1.15 and add space between sections so the page breathes.
Choose simple formatting over ornate designs. Avoid heavy graphics or multi-column layouts that break ATS parsing. Use standard headings like "Summary," "Experience," "Skills," "Certifications," and "Education."
List achievements with short bullets. Start bullets with strong verbs like "built," "installed," or "led." Quantify where you can, for example, "installed framing on 12 homes per year."
Watch common mistakes. Don't use weird fonts or bright colors that distract. Don't cram too much text onto one page or mix columns and graphics. Avoid long paragraphs and vague phrases like "responsible for" without results.
Make section order logical. Put contact and trade certifications near the top. Put tools and safety training under skills. Keep dates clear and aligned so your work history reads easily.