ATS means Applicant Tracking System. Employers use it to screen resumes for General Superintendent roles. It scans for keywords, dates, and section headers. If your file uses odd formatting, the ATS may skip key info or reject your file.

Use clear section titles like Work Experience, Education, and Skills. Keep dates and job titles on one line. Use a standard font like Arial or Calibri and save as a .docx or simple PDF.

• Include role-specific keywords: construction management, project scheduling, superintendent, subcontractor coordination, site safety, OSHA 30, CPM, MS Project, Procore, Primavera, RFI, change orders, blueprint reading, quality control, cost control, heavy civil, commercial construction.

Put keywords naturally into job bullets and the skills list. Mirror phrasing from job postings. For example, if a job asks for "Procore" and "OSHA 30," add those exact terms where they apply.

Avoid complex formatting. Don’t use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, or fancy graphics. ATS often breaks on those elements and loses text.

Common mistakes I see: people use creative section names like What I Do instead of Work Experience. People also swap keywords for synonyms. The ATS looks for exact terms. Another error is hiding dates in headers or footers where the ATS won’t read them.

Finish with a quick checklist. Make sure you have standard headers, exact keywords, simple formatting, readable font, and a .docx or PDF file. That will help your resume pass the first filter and reach a human reviewer.

Pick a clean, professional template that highlights your leadership and project outcomes. Use a reverse-chronological layout so your most recent site leadership roles show first. That layout reads well and works with most ATS systems.

Keep length tight. One page suits early or mid-career General Superintendent roles. If you led many large projects and hold 15+ years of direct site leadership, you may use two pages but cut unrelated content.

Choose ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Use 10–12pt for body text and 14–16pt for headings. Keep margins and line spacing consistent so hiring teams scan easily.

Structure your document with clear headings: Contact, Summary, Experience, Key Projects, Certifications, Skills, and Education. Use bullet lists under each role to show scope, crew size, schedule control, and safety results. Start bullets with strong verbs and include numbers.

Avoid complex columns, heavy graphics, or excessive color. Those elements often confuse ATS and distract reviewers. Also skip nonstandard fonts and long dense paragraphs. White space helps recruiters focus on your achievements.

Watch common mistakes. Don’t bury dates or use vague headings. Don’t cram too much on one page. Don’t list irrelevant duties without outcomes. Proofread for consistent date formats and alignment.

Finally, tailor each resume to the job. Highlight relevant trades, project types, and compliance or safety credentials. Keep it clear, measurable, and easy to read.

Why a tailored cover letter matters

A tailored cover letter shows why you fit the General Superintendent role. It complements your resume and shows real interest in the company. You can explain how you lead crews, meet schedules, and improve safety.

Key sections breakdown

• Header: Put your contact details, the date, and the company's contact if you have it.
• Opening paragraph: Name the General Superintendent role. Say why you want the job and mention one strong qualification or where you saw the posting.
• Body paragraphs (1-3): Link your experience to the job needs. Highlight projects, crew sizes, and construction skills like schedule management or cost control. Mention soft skills like problem-solving, crew leadership, and communication. Use numbers where you can, such as percent improvements or dollar savings. Mirror keywords from the job posting.
• Closing paragraph: Reiterate your interest in this specific role and company. State confidence in the value you bring. Ask for an interview and thank the reader.

Tone and tailoring

Write like you talk to a peer. Keep it professional, confident, and warm. Customize each letter for every employer. Avoid generic templates and repeat details from your resume only when they add context.

Quick tips

Start strong. Use short clear sentences. Give one or two concrete examples. End with a clear call to action. Proofread for tone, grammar, and accuracy.

When you apply for a General Superintendent role you need a resume that shows you handle complex construction sites. Hiring managers look for clear evidence of scheduling, safety, and crew leadership. Small mistakes can make you look sloppy or inexperienced.

Fixing those mistakes takes little time. Tidy language, concrete numbers, and the right keywords will make your experience clear.

These FAQs and tips help you craft a resume for a General Superintendent role. They focus on how to show leadership, site experience, safety track record, and schedule control in clear, actionable ways.