Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools employers use to sort job applications. They scan your resume for keywords, dates, and section headers. They can reject resumes due to odd formatting or missing info.

For a Truck Engine Technician, ATS looks for specific skills and certifications. Use terms like diesel engine, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Allison transmission, ECU diagnostics, OBD-II, EPA 2010, DOT inspection, preventive maintenance, torque specs, ASE certification, turbochargers, fuel systems, and SCR/DEF. Include tools like scan tool, multimeter, and borescope.

• Use standard section titles: Work Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications.
• Keep bullets short and keyword-rich.
• Use .docx or simple PDF files.

Avoid complex layout that breaks parsing. Don’t use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, or footers. Don’t add images, charts, or unusual fonts. Pick readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Save a clean .docx or a text-friendly PDF.

Match keywords naturally to each job description. Mirror exact phrases when they appear, like "Cummins diesel diagnostics" or "DOT pre-trip inspections." Don’t stuff keywords. Put them where they belong: skills lists, job bullets, and certifications.

Common mistakes trip ATS. Replacing standard titles with creative ones hides information. Hiding dates in headers or footers removes them from parsing. Using a graphic skills chart removes searchable text. Leaving out key tools, engine models, or certifications cuts your match score.

Pick a clean, single-column template with clear margins. For a Truck Engine Technician you want sections that show certifications, hands-on experience, and measurable repairs. Use a reverse-chronological layout so your recent shop work appears first.

Keep length tight. One page fits entry and mid-career techs. If you have 10+ years of relevant heavy-duty engine work, two pages can work but only if every line adds value.

Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt. Keep line spacing around 1.0–1.15 and add space between sections so each block reads easily.

Structure matters. Use standard headings: Contact, Summary, Skills, Certifications, Experience, Education, and Tools. List certifications with dates and issuing body so technicians and hiring managers can scan quickly.

Avoid complex layouts. Don’t use multiple columns, text inside images, or heavy graphics. Those choices confuse both ATS and human readers. Stick to bullet lists for tasks and short quantified achievements like “Reduced engine downtime by 20%.”

Watch common mistakes. Don’t mix fonts or colors. Don’t cram too much text. Don’t bury certifications in paragraphs. Keep everything consistent and aligned.

Writing a tailored cover letter matters for a Truck Engine Technician role. It shows why you want the job and how your hands-on skills fit the company.

Start with a clear header. Include your contact details, the company name, and the date.

Opening paragraph

State the Truck Engine Technician title you want. Say where you saw the opening and show genuine enthusiasm. Mention your strongest qualification in one sentence.

Body paragraphs

Connect your experience directly to the job's needs. Use short examples of repairs, diagnostics, or diesel engine maintenance. Name specific skills like diesel engine diagnostics, turbocharger repair, and CAN bus troubleshooting.

List quantifiable achievements so the reader can see impact:

• Reduced downtime by 30 percent through faster diagnostics.
• Cut parts costs by 15 percent with better supplier choices.
• Trained three apprentices who now handle routine engine rebuilds.

Use one or two paragraphs to show soft skills. Mention teamwork, clear communication, and following safety rules. Tie each skill to a real result.

Closing paragraph

Reiterate interest in the Truck Engine Technician role and the company. Say you can help reduce fleet downtime or improve engine reliability. Request an interview and thank the reader for their time.

Tone and tailoring matter. Keep the tone confident, professional, and friendly. Customize each letter to the job description and avoid generic phrases. Use keywords from the posting, but write like you are talking to a single person.

Keep sentences short and active. Cut extra words. Let each sentence state one clear idea.

When you apply for Truck Engine Technician roles, small resume errors can cost interviews. You need to prove your hands-on skills, safety training, and diagnostic know-how quickly. A clear, accurate resume helps technicians get past both human readers and applicant tracking systems.

Focus on specifics, measurable results, and easy-to-read formatting. I broke down common mistakes you should avoid and how to fix them.

If you work on heavy-duty diesel engines, this set of FAQs and tips will help you craft a Truck Engine Technician resume that highlights your hands-on skills, certifications, and troubleshooting track record. Use these pointers to make your experience clear and easy to scan for hiring managers.