Automotive Technician Resume: Examples and Tips

If you’re a relative newcomer with little or no professional experience, consider the functional resume format, which focuses on skills and qualifications you already have through training and internships. To create a resume that focuses on both your skills and experience, use the combination resume format, which features a balance of key skills and work achievements. If you want to show off your extensive experience in the mechanics field, go for the chronological resume format, which highlights your career progress through each job you have done, in reverse-chronological order.

Most recruiters now use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes, selecting candidates based on industry-specific keywords. To get past ATS, review the job posting carefully, identifying important phrases that define the job’s requirements (e.g., “computerized and electronic diagnostic tests using specialized equipment”). Then match these industry keywords with your own abilities and experience, and incorporate them in your summary, skills and work history sections. For example, you can list “vehicle inspection and diagnosis” as a skill, or mention a work experience such as “Inspected and diagnosed vehicles using AutoEnginuity scanning equipment.” For more keyword tips, see How to Use Keywords Effectively.

• Don’t get too wordy in your sentences. Use simple, crisp bullet points and phrases.
• Stay away from generic buzzwords that don’t carry much weight such as “amazing,” “incredible” or “special.” Don’t just tell a recruiter you are “amazing” — give examples of notable work achievements and skills.
• Don’t include a reference list — employers will ask you to submit references separately. Use your resume space to give more details on your top qualifications.

Don’t use passive phrases like “was responsible for” or “was tasked with” to describe your work experiences, when you should be using powerful action verbs like “arranged,” “conducted,” “coordinated,” “managed” or “oversaw” that present you as being at the center of your own achievements. For example, it’s better to write “Diagnosed braking system problems” then “Was responsible for attending to braking system problems.”