Choose a clean, professional template that uses a reverse-chronological layout. You want recruiters to scan job titles, dates, and duties quickly.
For a Construction Ironworker Helper, list hands-on experience first. Put certifications and safety training near the top so hiring managers see them fast.
Keep length to one page if you have under 10 years of relevant work. Use two pages only if you have long, directly relevant project history and certifications.
Pick ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Use 10–12pt for body text and 14–16pt for headers so sections stand out.
Give each section breathing room with consistent margins and spacing. Use short bullet lists for tasks and achievements so your document stays scannable.
Avoid fancy graphics, embedded tables, and multiple columns. Those elements often break parsing and hide key info.
Use clear, standard headings like Contact, Summary, Experience, Certifications, Skills, and Safety Training. That helps both humans and ATS find info fast.
Common mistakes include tiny fonts, crowded layout, and unexplained gaps in dates. Don’t use long paragraphs for daily tasks. Keep bullets and numbers concise.
Also avoid excessive color, nonstandard fonts, and complex templates with headers or footers for critical details. They make parsing unreliable.
Focus on safety records, heavy equipment you can assist with, rigging basics, and on-site tasks. Quantify when you can, like number of tons moved or crews supported.