Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS, scan resumes for keywords and structure. They rank or filter resumes before a human sees them.

For a Directional Driller, ATS looks for tools, techniques, and certifications. Phrase things so the system finds terms like MWD, LWD, rotary steerable, BHA, wellbore trajectory, azimuth, inclination, and drilling optimization.

Best practices:

• Use standard section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills".
• List specific keywords from job postings naturally in your bullets.
• Avoid tables, columns, headers, footers, images, and text boxes.
• Use readable fonts like Arial or Calibri and 10–12 pt size.
• Save as .docx or PDF, but avoid heavily designed PDFs that ATS misreads.

Use job-description language for experience. Write "Operated MWD and LWD tools" instead of vague phrases.

Common mistakes:

• Using creative headers like "My Journey" instead of "Work Experience".
• Hiding keywords in images or graphics.
• Swapping exact terms for synonyms, like saying "survey tools" instead of "MWD" when the job asks for MWD.

Keep your file simple. Use bullet points for achievements and tools. Quantify results like reduced dogleg severity by X percent if you can.

Pick a clean, single-column template that highlights technical roles and field projects. Use reverse-chronological order so recent rig and wellbore experience appears first.

Keep length tight. One page usually fits if you have under 10 years of experience. Take a second page only if you led major drilling programs or managed many rigs.

Choose simple, ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri or Arial. Use 10–12pt for body text and 14–16pt for headings.

Keep margins at least 0.5 inches and add space between sections. White space helps drilling supervisors and recruiters scan your skills and logs fast.

Avoid heavy graphics, multi-column layouts, and embedded images of charts. Those elements can confuse ATS and slow down human readers who just want your well targets and hit rates.

Use clear section headings: Contact, Summary, Experience, Key Skills, Certifications, Education, and Relevant Projects or Well Records. Put certifications like BOSIET or Well Control near the top.

List tools and systems you use, like gyro surveys, MWD, steering software, and torque management. Use short bullets with metrics when possible, for example feet drilled per day or reduction in non-productive time.

Watch common mistakes. Don’t use odd fonts, excessive colors, or cramped lines. Don’t hide dates or use vague headings like "Responsibilities." Be specific and consistent with formatting across jobs.

Tailoring your cover letter for a Directional Driller shows you know the role and you care about the company. A targeted letter complements your resume and tells hiring managers why you fit the job.

Header: Put your name, phone, email, and location. Add the company's name and the date when you can.

Opening paragraph: State the exact job title you want. Say why you want to work for that company. Mention your top qualification or where you found the opening.

Body paragraphs: Connect your experience to the job needs. Use short stories about relevant projects. Mention specific skills like well planning or trajectory control. Show soft skills such as teamwork and problem solving. Include numbers when you can, like footage drilled or time saved.

• Highlight one or two key projects.
• Mention instruments you use, for example MWD or rotary steerable tools.
• Use keywords from the job posting, like directional surveying or torque management.

Closing paragraph: Restate your strong interest in the Directional Driller role and the company. Explain briefly how you will add value. Ask for an interview or a call and thank the reader for their time.

Tone and tailoring: Keep the tone professional and confident. Write like you're talking to one person. Customize each letter to the specific company and role. Avoid generic templates and repeat only what your resume already shows.

Style tips: Use clear language and short sentences. Avoid heavy jargon and long paragraphs. Proofread for errors and keep the letter to one page.

When you apply for a Directional Driller role, small resume errors can cost interviews. Recruiters need clear proof you can steer wells, manage MWD tools, and keep crews safe. Pay attention to wording, numbers, and certifications so your resume shows exactly what you bring to the rig.

Below are common mistakes directional drillers make and simple fixes you can apply today.

If you work as a Directional Driller, this set of FAQs and tips helps you shape your resume. You'll find focused advice on skills, format, certifications, and how to show well-drilled results to hiring managers.