Our customers have been hired at:*Foot Note

Professionals in the mechanics industry oversee maintenance and repair of motorized vehicles, including cars, buses, trucks and boats. For a successful career in this industry, you should have knowledge of vehicle diagnosis and structure, as well as skills like good communication, problem-solving abilities, ability to work under pressure, and a keen eye for detail.

Our resume examples and important tips will help you craft your resume, and move your mechanics career to the next level.

Top Mechanics Resume Examples

Boat Mechanic

Diesel Mechanic

Service Technician

My Perfect Resume is job
seeker loved and recruiter approved

Help You Build Resume

We can help you build your professional resume

  • Professionally designed and formatted templates
  • Expert suggestions for filling out every section of your resume, customized by job title
  • Easily create different versions of your resume, customized for different jobs

How to build your resume for a mechanics Career

We’ve assembled resume examples for major jobs in the mechanics fields — use these samples and tips to guide you as you create your own resume with our resume builder.

Career Track: Auto Maintenance

Auto maintenance keeps motorized vehicles running smoothly, covering everything from oil changes to full-on maintenance and reconstruction. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is similar to the average for all occupations. To stay ahead of the game, focus on new technologies such as electric-powered engines and advancements in car systems and safety.

Automotive Technician Apprentice $35,470 Median Salary

Resume Format

Functional Resume

Apprentice-level job opportunities will stress technical and soft skills rather than an extensive work history, so use a functional resume, which categorizes your skills into categories such as “Practical Skills” and “Soft Skills.” Focus on any vocational training you’ve had, as well any experiences you’ve had in basic tasks such as changing brake pads and rotors, changing car batteries, and inspecting and testing vehicles. For more details about formatting a resume, visit our resume format page.

Summary statement tip

Keep the summary statement short, crisp, and to the point, highlighting the relevant skills and achievements that show off your value. For example: “Highly-organized Automotive Technician Apprentice with a strong understanding of automobile repair and maintenance. Adept in performing oil changes and tire rotations, and providing excellent customer service.”

Skills to feature

  • Strong knowledge of mechanics
  • Physical stamina
  • Equipment handling
  • Lifting heavy machinery
  • Oil and lube changes
  • Brake and hydraulic repair
  • Battery service
  • Basic computer skills
  • Strong math skills
  • Detail-oriented
  • Multi-tasking
  • Problem-solving
  • Good communication skills
  • Customer service
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Analytical skills

Get to the next level

To climb the career ladder, focus on the following areas in your resume:

  • Get advanced training or a certificate in automotive repair and maintenance.
  • Show consistent on-the-job experience, as well as participation in vocational training programs or internships.
  • Get specialized training in areas such as Engine Repair, or Suspension and Steering.
  • Give work examples that show your proficiency with tools, and handling machinery and heavy equipment.

Automotive Technician $47,822 Median Salary

Resume Format

Combination Resume

For this intermediate-level job, the combination format is a good choice, as it emphasizes both skills and relevant work experiences. Show off your customer service abilities and general repair knowledge, as well as particular areas you specialize in, such as operating pneumatic tools and air compressors, or performing engine system set-ups for diverse vehicles.

Summary statement tip

In a few sentences, feature skills and work history examples that are in tune with the job you’re applying to. For example, if the job places a premium on troubleshooting and emission inspections, you could write: “Hard-working Auto Technician adept at troubleshooting issues in all makes of Japanese and European cars. Well-versed in performing emission inspections, conducting routine maintenance work, and efficiently identifying and solving issues.”

Skills to feature

  • Air conditioning systems
  • Interpreting and transcribing data
  • Diagnostic equipment
  • Diesel engine knowledge
  • Math skills
  • Team supervision
  • Leadership
  • Customer service
  • Hand-eye coordination
  • Professional demeanor
  • Multitasking
  • Attention to detail

Get to the next level

Moving up to senior positions like the lead automotive technician, you must have an impressive academic background with strong leadership skills. To work your way up in the mechanics’ career, look to:

  • Pursue a master’s degree in automotive engineering or any related field to fulfill the educational criteria of senior-level jobs.
  • Showcase relevant experience in your resume as a customer service specialist or automotive service and repair professional to open the door for new opportunities.
  • Get a valid license or master-level certification from ASE.
  • Include technical and soft skills with any specialization certificates in computer software or driving, etc.
  • Demonstrate your success at senior level management to showcase your leadership qualities.

Lead Automotive Technician $54,993 Median Salary

Resume Format:

Chronological Resume

Use the chronological format for positions like these, that favor candidates with more experience. This format features an extensive work history section, and shows through your work achievements how you’ve grown your career. Use numbers and metrics to describe your accomplishments, and give them more context. For example: “Carried out tire, shock, strut, and brake maintenance for more than 20 vehicles per day,” or “Managed team of 10 mechanics, repairing 25 vehicles per day.”

Summary statement tip:

Give a brief outline of experiences and expertise that highlight your very best skills, making sure they match what the job needs. For example: “Highly qualified lead automotive technician with 7+ years of extensive experience in problem-solving and maintaining a collaborative environment. Strong knowledge of SAP and diagnostic methods.”

Skills to feature:

  • Knowledge of specialized tools
  • Equipment handling
  • Mathematical skills
  • Administrative skills
  • Record-keeping
  • Time and schedule management
  • Detail-oriented
  • Good communicator
  • Problem-solving
  • Leadership
  • Analytical skills
  • Multitasking
  • Customer service
  • Critical thinking

Get to the next level:

To continue moving up in your career, focus on showcasing your skills in the following areas:

  • Gain more advanced training and certifications in the field, such as completion of a Certified Automotive Professional program.
  • Give work examples of your ability to manage a large volume of repair projects, and lead teams.
  • Show recognitions you’ve received for quality of service, such as positive ratings on review websites like Yelp.
  • Give examples of procedures and processes you’ve implemented or improved that increased business revenue and/or customer satisfaction.

Career Track: Mechanics Supervision

Front-line managers who supervise mechanics and repair professionals are always in demand, with major employment opportunities in real estate, building equipment contractors and local government

Equipment Mechanic $41,727 Median Salary

Resume format

Functional Resume

If you’re just getting started in the business and can’t feature a lot of sustained work experience, the functional resume — also known as a skills-based format — is the best fit for you. Don’t forget to emphasize specific soft skills that can help you on the job, such as multitasking, collaboration and a strong work ethic.

Summary statement tip

In a few sentences, communicate the high points of your career so far: where you’ve been, what you’ve done and what you’re capable of. Think of this section as a quick “elevator pitch” in which you explain why you’re the best person for the job.

Skills to feature

  • CODA engine analysis
  • Equipment repair
  • Time management
  • Customer service
  • Rollers and compactors operation
  • Issue diagnosis
  • Rebuilding engines
  • Electrical work experience
  • Basic math
  • IC fabrication knowledge
  • Strong communication skills
  • Inventory control
  • Equipment diagnostics and repair

Get to the next level

As machinery is always changing, you should always stay up to date with current technologies and trends. Show this knowledge in your resume by:

  • Obtaining advanced training or a degree in mechanical engineering or related field
  • Work experiences that show you can troubleshoot and repair mechanical systems
  • Proficiency with hydraulic and electrical systems
  • Proven experience assisting equipment and process engineers with problem-solving and preventive maintenance
  • Examples of projects and duties that go beyond standard tasks

Port Mechanic $57,062 Median Salary

Resume Format

Combination Resume

The combination format, also known as a hybrid resume, provides a balanced mix of skills and work achievements, and is a good fit if you already have a few years of experience. Emphasize your abilities to communicate and collaborate with others, and your proficiency in repairing marine equipment in adverse conditions.

Summary statement tip

This section is your chance to feature your best skills, qualifications, and value as a professional. For instance: “Reliable Port Mechanic with six years of experience working in a fast-paced environment, performing electronic and mechanical troubleshooting and repairs. Effective in blending advanced technical and analytical insight to diagnose and repair complex issues.”

Skills to feature

  • HAZMAT knowledge
  • Automation maintenance and repair
  • Hydraulic pumps
  • Electronic technology
  • Technical aptitude
  • Recordkeeping
  • Inspections proficiency
  • Math and physics knowledge
  • Thinking and reasoning skills
  • Excellent verbal communication abilities
  • Detail-oriented
  • Preventive maintenance
  • Inspection reports

To get to the next level

If you’re looking to move up to a managerial position, look to obtain:

  • Advanced training or degree in business management, port management, marine engineering, or related field
  • At least three years of professional experience planning, administering, and reviewing port operations
  • Proven experience in optimizing resources, minimizing costs and maintaining quality standards
  • Ability to understand and execute complicated oral and written instructions
  • Merchant Mariner’s Documents

Plant Manager$91,488 Median Salary

Resume Format

Chronological Resume

To present yourself as the best candidate for a managerial role, use this format, which details your work history and achievements, along with critical skills. Highlight experiences in which you successfully managed teams on projects and major tasks, and your ability to supervise maintenance and production processes.

Summary statement tip

Think of this section as your first, best opportunity to catch a potential employer’s eye. Succinctly sum up your experience, expertise and most appropriate skills. For example: “Plant Operations Manager with wide-ranging experience planning and leading operations involving small to medium-sized manufacturing environments.”

Skills to feature

  • Operations management
  • Staff development
  • Inventory control
  • Six Sigma expertise
  • Policy and procedure development
  • Team building
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Material handling
  • Employee training and development
  • Project creation and management
  • OSHA knowledge

Get to the next level

If you’re aiming to elevate your career, look into:

  • Advanced training or degree in business management, human resources management, or area related to your industry
  • Examples of long-term success in conducting quality improvements and training teams
  • Proven experience in overseeing all aspects of project management
  • Examples of procedures you’ve overseen or implemented that that resulted in improved profitability and customer satisfaction
  • Training or certification in logistics

Mechanics resume FAQ

How should you format your resume based on your career level?

Format your resume easily by following these tips:

Functional resume: This format focuses more on skills rather than work history and is thus most useful for entry-level jobs, or first-time job seekers with little or no work experience.

Combination resume: Best for intermediate-level jobs or positions for which you can port over transferable experiences or skills from different jobs, the combination (or hybrid) resume highlights both relevant work experiences and skills.

Chronological resume: For positions that require extensive experience, or for jobs in which you can point to solid career progression that make you qualified for the role, use this format, which goes in-depth on previous work responsibilities and achievements.

What are some skills you should consider for your mechanics resume?

  • Detail-oriented
  • Problem-solving
  • Versatility
  • Organizational skills
  • Work under pressure
  • Physical ability
  • Administrative skills
  • Efficiency
  • Communication skills
  • Computer proficiency
  • Diagnostic and mechanic skills
  • Professionalism
  • Work ethic
  • Customer service
  • Good comprehension skills
  • Math skills
  • In-depth knowledge of vehicle diagnostic equipment
  • Updating inventory
  • Data entry
  • Excellent knowledge of machinery and hydraulics
  • Hands-on experience in hand tools
  • Team player
  • Multitasking
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Customer service
  • Coordination skills
  • Writing technical reports
  • Engine repair
  • Engineering and mechanical concepts
  • Critical thinking

What other certifications and training are useful for a mechanics resume?

Adding industry-specific certifications and additional training to your resume can increase your chance to advance your career. Some related certifications or programs you can opt for include:

  • ASE Masters Certification
  • Certificate in Motor Vehicle Mechanic
  • Outboard Motor Mechanic Certification
  • Marine Service Technician Training Program
  • ITI Diesel Mechanic Certification
  • NCCER Certification
  • Automotive Technician Training
  • Motorbike Mechanic Training
  • Automobile Technician Course
  • Automotive Service Technology Program