Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS, parse resumes for keywords and structure. They scan for role-specific terms like "tree surgeon", "pruning", "felling", and certifications like "NPTC" or "CPCS".

You need to optimize your resume so the ATS finds your skills and experience. If the system can’t read your file or find key words, it can discard your application before a human sees it.

Best practices:

• Use standard section titles: "Work Experience", "Education", "Skills", "Certifications".
• Include relevant keywords that tree surgeon roles list, such as "tree risk assessment", "crown reduction", "rigging", "chainsaw operation", "rope access", "first aid" and "stump grinding".
• Avoid tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, and graphs.
• Use plain fonts like Arial or Calibri and simple bullet points.
• Save as a clean .docx or readable PDF. Don’t upload heavily designed files.

List keywords naturally in context. For example, add them to duty bullets and skills. Match exact phrases from the job advert when truthful.

Common mistakes I see:

• Using creative synonyms instead of the exact keyword from the job ad, like writing "tree maintenance" instead of "tree surgery".
• Putting important info in headers or footers where ATS might ignore it.
• Omitting certifications such as NPTC or CPCS, or leaving out health and safety points like "first aid".

Keep sentences short and direct. Proofread for spelling on tools and certification codes. Tailor each application to the job description you target.

Pick a clean layout for your Tree Surgeon resume. Use reverse-chronological order if you have steady work history. That order shows your latest tree care roles first.

Keep length tight. One page works for early and mid-career tree surgeons. Use two pages only if you have long relevant field experience and certifications.

Choose simple fonts like Calibri or Arial. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt. Keep line spacing at 1.0–1.15 and add clear margins so the page breathes.

Use clear headings: Contact, Summary, Experience, Certifications, Tools & Skills, Education, Safety Training. That helps hiring managers and software read your file. Use bullet lists for tasks and achievements.

Avoid heavy graphics, multiple columns, or odd fonts. These elements confuse applicant tracking systems. Stick to plain PDF or Word files unless the job ad asks for another format.

Show measurable outcomes. Note number of trees pruned, emergency removals handled, or hectares managed. Keep each bullet short and active. Start bullets with verbs like "led," "pruned," or "trained."

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Using columns that break ATS parsing.
• Putting certifications in images instead of text.
• Cramping sections with tiny fonts to fit everything.
• Overloading the header with long personal statements.

Why a tailored cover letter matters

Applying for a Tree Surgeon role needs more than a good resume. Your letter shows your fit, your care for tree health, and your respect for safety. It also tells the hiring manager why you want to work at their company.

Key sections and what to say

• Header: Put your contact details, the company name, and the date. If you know the hiring manager, add their name.
• Opening paragraph: Name the Tree Surgeon position you want. Show real enthusiasm for the company. State your top qualification or where you found the role.
• Body paragraphs: Connect your past work to the job needs. Highlight key projects, tools, and methods like crown reduction, safe rigging, or chainsaw work. Mention soft skills such as problem solving, clear communication, and crew leadership. Use numbers when you can, for example how many trees you pruned or how much you cut response time for storm jobs. Pull phrases directly from the job posting to match keywords.
• Closing paragraph: Repeat your interest in the Tree Surgeon role at the company. State confidence in your ability to contribute. Ask for an interview or a site visit. Thank the reader for their time.

Tone and style

Write like you are talking to a helpful coach. Keep sentences short and direct. Use active verbs and specific examples. Tailor each letter to the employer and role. Avoid generic templates and broad claims.

Practical tips

Open with one clear achievement. Use one or two short body paragraphs. End with a clear call to action. Proofread for safety terms and tool names.

A Tree Surgeon must show clear skills, safety training, and measured results. Your resume should prove you can work at height, use equipment safely, and follow risk assessments. Small errors can cost interviews. Read these common mistakes and fix them fast to give your application a real chance.

Working as a tree surgeon means you need to show practical skills, safety training, and client experience on your resume. These FAQs and tips help you present your work clearly, list relevant certificates, and highlight the jobs that prove you can handle trees safely.