Pick a clean, professional template for a Program Specialist role. Use a reverse-chronological layout so your recent program work shows first. That layout reads well for hiring teams and most applicant tracking systems.
Keep length tight. One page fits if you have under ten years of relevant experience. Use two pages only when you lead multiple large programs and list measurable outcomes.
Choose ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Use 10–12pt for body text and 14–16pt for section headers. Leave enough white space so reviewers and recruiters scan quickly.
Structure your content with clear headings. Use Experience, Programs Led, Skills, Education, and Certifications. Put dates and locations on the right side of each role for fast scanning.
Avoid complex columns, images, or text boxes that break ATS parsing. Limit color to one accent for section headers. Use bold and bullets to highlight impact and outcomes.
Common mistakes include long paragraphs, inconsistent spacing, and unclear dates. Don't use rare fonts or full-width graphics. Don't bury program outcomes under dense job duties.
Use concise bullets that start with strong verbs. Quantify impact like number served, budget size, or percent improvement. Tailor your top bullets to the job description and keep the rest relevant.