An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) scans resumes for keywords and structure. It ranks or drops resumes that lack expected words or that use odd formatting.

If you're applying for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator roles, ATS looks for specific terms like "UAV", "UAS", "Part 107", "BVLOS", "GCS", "telemetry", "EO/IR", "LiDAR", "RTK GPS", "mission planning", and "payload integration". Use those words where they fit naturally.

Follow these best practices:

• Use standard section titles like "Work Experience", "Education", "Certifications", and "Skills".
• Include role-specific keywords from job ads, such as "remote pilot", "FAA Part 107", "BVLOS operations", "preflight checklist", "sensor calibration", and "flight logging".
• Keep formatting simple. Avoid tables, columns, images, headers, and footers.
• Use common fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman and use 10–12 point text.
• Save as a .docx or text-first PDF. Avoid heavily designed files from web templates.

Watch out for common mistakes. Don’t swap exact keywords for creative synonyms. ATS may not map "drone lead" to "UAV operator."

Don’t hide important details in headers or graphics. Many systems ignore those areas. Also avoid long paragraphs. Keep bullet points short and factual.

Finally, list certifications clearly. Put "FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot" on its own line. That simple step often moves resumes into the "yes" pile.

Pick a clean, professional template that shows flight time, certifications, and mission experience first. Use a reverse-chronological layout so your recent UAV roles and licenses appear at the top.

Keep length to one page if you have under 10 years of UAV work. Use two pages only if you have extensive flight logs, technical manuals authored, or long deployments to list.

Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text 10–12pt and headers 14–16pt. Keep line spacing at 1.0–1.15 and add clear margins for white space.

Use clear section headings: Contact, Summary, Certifications, Flight Experience, Technical Skills, Education, and Awards. Put licenses and waivers near the top so recruiters spot them quickly.

Avoid complex columns, images, and embedded tables that break ATS parsing. Don't use unusual fonts or heavy color that distracts from your qualifications.

Keep bullet points short and outcome focused. Show numbers where you can, like flight hours, mission success rates, or payload weights handled.

Watch common mistakes: mixing fonts, tight spacing, and long dense paragraphs. Don't bury certifications or flight hours in prose. Don't use phrases that sound fluffy instead of factual.

Use consistent formatting for dates, job titles, and company names. Proofread for alignment and simple spelling errors before you send your resume.

Writing a tailored cover letter matters for a Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator role. It helps you show fit beyond your resume and shows genuine interest in the mission.

Header: Put your contact details at the top. Add the company's contact or hiring manager name if you know it. Include the date.

Opening paragraph: Say the exact Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator role you want. Show clear enthusiasm for the company and mission. State your top qualification or where you saw the job.

Body paragraphs:

• Connect one or two past experiences to the job needs. Mention specific skills like Part 107 certification or mission planning when relevant.
• Highlight measurable results. Give flight hours, mission success rates, or maintenance turnaround times.
• Mention soft skills such as teamwork, clear communication, and quick decision making in one sentence each.

Always match words to the job description. Use keywords from the posting. That helps your letter feel tailored.

Closing paragraph: Reiterate your interest in this Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator role and the company. State confidence that you can add value. Ask to meet or talk and thank the reader for their time.

Tone matters. Keep your voice professional, confident, and warm. Use short sentences. Speak like you would to a helpful mentor. Customize every letter. Avoid generic templates and copy-paste lines.

Final tip: Proofread aloud. That catches awkward phrasing and typos. Then send.

When you apply for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operator role, small resume mistakes can cost you an interview. Recruiters look for clear flight experience, certifications, and safety focus. Pay close attention to wording, numbers, and formatting so your skills shine.

Fixing a few common errors will make your qualifications obvious. That boosts your chance to get a call and to move on to a skills check or flight test.

If you fly drones for work, this FAQ and tips list will help you craft a clear resume that highlights your flight skills, certifications, and safety record. Use these pointers to show hiring managers you can operate UAVs, follow regs, and deliver mission results.