Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes for keywords and structured data. They match job terms to job descriptions and filter resumes before a person reads them.

For a Tig Welder, ATS looks for skills like "TIG welding", "GTAW", "stainless steel", "aluminum welding", "WPS", "filler rods", "blueprint reading", "welding symbols", "AWS", and "ASME". Missing these terms can stop your resume from moving forward.

Best practices:

• Use standard section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills".
• Include job-specific keywords naturally, such as "TIG (GTAW)", "stainless steel TIG welding", "pulse TIG", and "WPS/WPQ".
• Avoid complex formatting like tables, columns, headers, footers, images, and graphs.
• Use readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman at 10-12pt.
• Save a clean file copy as .docx or PDF unless the job asks for a specific format.

Keep keyword placement clear. Put certifications and key tools in a Skills or Certifications section. Repeat crucial keywords in work bullets where they apply.

Common mistakes:

• Using creative synonyms instead of exact terms, like writing "metal joining" instead of "TIG welding".
• Relying on headers or footers for contact info. ATS may skip that text.
• Listing tools without context. Say "TIG welding of aluminum and stainless" not just "aluminum".

Follow these rules and your resume stands a better chance at getting seen for Tig Welder roles.

Pick a clean layout for your Tig Welder role. Use a reverse-chronological or hybrid layout so employers see your recent welding experience first.

Keep length tight. One page fits entry-level and mid-career welders. Use two pages only if you have long, relevant experience or certifications.

Choose ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Use 10–12pt for body and 14–16pt for section headers. Keep margins at least 0.5 inch and add white space between sections.

Break your sections with clear headings. Use standard labels like Summary, Experience, Certifications, Skills, and Education. Put welding certifications and safety courses near the top.

List welding roles with brief bullet points. Start bullets with strong action verbs such as TIG welded, inspected, or set up. Quantify when you can, like welds per shift or defect reduction percentages.

Avoid fancy graphics, side columns, or image logos. They often confuse applicant tracking systems and recruiters. Simple formatting beats creative layouts for parsing and clarity.

Watch common mistakes. Don’t cram many fonts or colors into the file. Don’t leave long gaps or inconsistent spacing between sections. Don’t bury certifications in the middle of a job description.

Name files clearly. Use FirstLast_TIGWelder.pdf so recruiters can find you. Export to PDF unless an employer asks for Word.

Tailoring your cover letter matters for a Tig Welder role. You show how your hands-on work matches the job. You also show real interest in the company.

Start with a clear header that includes your contact details, the company's name, and the date. Keep it simple so the reader can contact you quickly.

Opening paragraph

Tell them the exact Tig Welder role you want. Say why you like the company. Mention your top qualification in one strong line.

Body paragraphs

• Connect your work to the job needs. Describe specific welding skills like TIG technique, metallurgy knowledge, or blueprint reading.
• Share projects or achievements. Use numbers when you can, like weld hours, defect reduction, or parts produced.
• Note soft skills. Talk about teamwork, problem-solving, safety focus, and meeting deadlines.

Use keywords from the job posting. Mirror phrases like "TIG welding", "WPS", or "quality inspection" when they match your experience. That helps your letter pass initial screens.

Closing paragraph

Reiterate your interest in the Tig Welder job and the company. State confidence in your ability to contribute. Ask for an interview or a practical skills test. Thank the reader for their time.

Tone matters. Stay professional, confident, and friendly. Write like you're talking to a coach. Keep sentences short and direct. Customize each letter. Avoid generic templates and repeat details from your resume only when they prove fit.

You're aiming for Tig Welder roles where detail matters. Small resume errors can cost you interviews. Use clear actions, exact materials, and measurable results to show your value.

Fixing common mistakes takes little time. That effort often leads to more callbacks and better-fit interviews.

If you weld with TIG, this set of FAQs and tips helps you write a resume that shows skill, safety, and precision. You'll get quick answers on format, certifications, project proof, and how to explain gaps so hiring managers trust your trade work.