Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools employers use to screen resumes. They scan for keywords, dates, and section headers, then rank or reject resumes automatically.
If you apply for a Professions And Applied Sciences Student role, ATS will look for specific terms. Use keywords like "research methods", "lab techniques", "data analysis", "MATLAB", "SPSS", "CAD", "fieldwork", "safety protocols", "internship", and "IRB".
- Use standard section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills".
- Match wording to the job posting while keeping language natural.
- Choose .docx or simple PDF files for upload.
Avoid fancy layouts. Don’t use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, or images. Many ATS skip content placed inside those elements.
Pick readable fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Keep font sizes between 10 and 12 points for body text. Use plain bullet points and short sentences.
Also avoid replacing exact keywords with creative synonyms. If the posting asks for "laboratory safety" write that phrase. If you omit key skills like instrument names or software, the ATS may grade you lower.
Common mistakes include hiding contact info in headers, using image-based PDFs, and over-designing your file. Those choices can make the ATS miss critical information.