Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are automated tools used by companies like Shanahan LLC and Davis, Tromp and Goldner to screen resumes. For a Construction Craft Laborer role, your resume must pass this first test before reaching a human. ATS scans for keywords from job descriptions, like 'concrete finishing' or 'safety certifications', and may reject resumes with poor formatting or missing terms.
Best practices: Use standard section titles (Work Experience, Skills, Certifications). Mirror keywords from job posts exactly (e.g., 'OSHA 30' instead of 'safety training'). Avoid tables, headers, or images. Stick to fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. Save as a simple PDF or .docx.
Common mistakes: Using creative titles like 'On-Site Experience' instead of 'Work Experience'. Relying on footers for contact info (ATS might miss it). Missing key terms like 'welding' or 'equipment operation' that appear in job listings.