Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools employers use to filter resumes automatically.

They scan resumes for keywords, dates, job titles, certifications, and readable formatting. ATS can discard resumes that use odd layouts, images, or missing key terms.

For a Mineral Surveyor, ATS looks for terms like "boundary survey", "topographic survey", "cadastral", "GPS/GNSS", "total station", "AutoCAD Civil 3D", "GIS", "legal descriptions", "mineral rights", and "Registered Land Surveyor".

• Use clear section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills".
• List certifications and licenses with exact names, such as "RLS" or "Registered Land Surveyor".
• Include tools like "Trimble", "Leica", and software like "Civil 3D" or "ArcGIS".

A few best practices help your resume parse well. Use standard fonts like Arial or Calibri. Save as .docx or PDF unless the job asks for a different format.

Avoid complex formatting. Do not use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, or graphs. ATS often misread those elements.

Also avoid creative synonyms for key skills. If the job asks for "total station", don't replace it with "advanced distance tool" only. Match keywords naturally.

Common mistakes include hiding important details in headers or images. Another mistake is leaving out critical certifications or software names. Both hurt your chances in the screening phase.

Pick a clean template that highlights fieldwork, surveying skills, and certifications. Use a reverse-chronological layout when your recent survey roles show increasing responsibility.

Keep length to one page for early or mid-career Mineral Surveyor roles. Use two pages only if you have extensive project leadership or regulatory filings to show.

Choose ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri or Arial. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt so hiring managers read easily.

Use clear section headings: Contact, Summary, Work Experience, Licenses & Certifications, Technical Skills, Field Projects, Education. Keep each section tightly focused and use bullet points for achievements.

Leave white space around sections and between lines. Use 0.25–0.5 inch spacing between bullets and 1 inch margins to avoid clutter.

Avoid complex columns, embedded charts, and graphics that trip parsing systems. Stick to simple bold and italics for emphasis.

Common mistakes to avoid: too many fonts, tiny margins, long dense paragraphs, and vague duties without results. Quantify progress, like acreage surveyed, dispute resolutions, or error reductions.

Use active verbs such as surveyed, mapped, verified, and coordinated. List licenses with issuing state and expiration dates so reviewers find them fast.

Writing a tailored cover letter matters for a Mineral Surveyor. It complements your resume and shows real interest in the role.

Keep the letter clear and focused. Use short sentences. Speak to one hiring manager or team. Show how your skills solve the company's needs.

Key sections

• Header: Put your contact details, the company's name, and the date.
• Opening paragraph: Name the Mineral Surveyor role you want. Show real enthusiasm for the company. Mention your top qualification or where you found the job.
• Body paragraphs (1–3): Link your experience to the job. Highlight survey methods, boundary work, GPS or GIS skills, or land law knowledge. Note teamwork, problem-solving, and field safety. Use short examples with numbers, like surveyed X hectares or resolved Y claims.
• Closing paragraph: Restate your interest in the Mineral Surveyor role and the company. Say you look forward to discussing how you can help. Thank the reader and request an interview.

Tone matters. Stay professional, confident, and warm. Use plain words. Tailor each letter to the job and company. Pull keywords from the job posting. Avoid generic lines. Keep sentences active and direct. Write like you’re talking to a hiring manager over coffee.

Quick tips: lead with a strong result, keep technical terms simple, and end with a clear call to action. Proofread for clarity and typos. One focused page usually works best.

You're applying for a Mineral Surveyor role, so your resume must show precision, field experience, and knowledge of regulations.

Small errors can make employers doubt your attention to detail. Fixing common mistakes helps your resume reflect the careful work you do on site and in reports.

These FAQs and tips help you build a Mineral Surveyor resume that highlights field work, technical skills, and legal knowledge. You'll find quick answers on format, key skills, projects, gaps, and certifications. Use the tips to sharpen your statements and make your experience easier to assess.