Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes for keywords and structured data. They filter candidates before a human reads your file. For a Mine Geologist, ATS look for skills like geological mapping, drill core logging, ore characterization, grade control, resource estimation, Leapfrog, Surpac, Datamine, and NI 43-101 or JORC reporting.
Follow a few simple formatting rules. Use standard section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills". Avoid tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, and graphs. Use fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman so parsers read your text correctly.
Match keywords naturally to job descriptions. Include technical tools and methods you use, such as "structural geology", "geostatistics", "drill spacing analysis", "QA/QC", and software names. Mention certifications and reporting standards like NI 43-101 and JORC. Keep keywords in context so a human sees real experience.
- Best practices: clear headings, bullet lists for duties, dates in a consistent format, and a plain .docx or PDF file.
Common mistakes cost you interviews. Don’t replace exact keywords with creative synonyms. Don’t rely on formatting to convey meaning. Don’t hide dates, locations, or key tools in images or headers. Also avoid unusual section titles like "What I’ve Done" instead of "Work Experience".
Scan job posts for recurring terms and fold them into your experience bullets. Keep each bullet focused and measurable. This helps both the ATS and the recruiter read your fit quickly.