Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software that scan resumes for keywords and structure. They rank and filter submissions before a human sees them, so getting past ATS matters for a Print Designer.
ATS read plain text, so fancy layouts can confuse them. If your file uses tables, images, or headers, the ATS might miss your skills or contact details.
Use clear section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills". List tools and tasks that match Print Designer roles, such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, prepress, color separations, CMYK, Pantone, dielines, bleeds, trim, trapping, RIP workflows, PDF/X-1a, preflight, proofing, press checks, file prep, and print production.
- Use plain fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Save as a clean PDF or a .docx file without complex layout elements.
- Put keywords into your experience bullets naturally, not stuffed in a keyword list.
Avoid using fancy synonyms for core skills. If a job asks for "prepress" don't replace it with only "print prep". Keep terms consistent with the job posting.
Don't hide important info in headers or footers. ATS sometimes skip those areas and lose contact details or dates. Always put dates and employer names in the main text under Work Experience.
Common mistakes include heavy graphics, multi-column layouts, and embedded text in images. Also avoid long, styled section headers and unusual file types. Follow these simple rules and your resume will reach a hiring manager who cares about your print craft.