When working in a trade profession like electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC, you know that your skills are hands-on, specialized, and in demand. But when it comes to writing a resume, translating those talents into a document that grabs attention can be challenging. Here’s a guide to help you craft a professional resume that will set you apart, focusing on what matters most to hiring managers in the skilled trades.

Start with a Clear, Focused Title

Your resume title should immediately convey your profession and experience level. A simple, clear title line like “Certified HVAC Technician with 10 Years of Residential and Commercial Experience” or “Licensed Journeyman Electrician – Residential & Commercial Expertise” ensures that your trade and qualifications are front and center. Avoid vague titles like “Technician” or “Tradesman”, be specific!

Highlight Certifications and Licenses

In the skilled trades, certifications and licenses are critical. Be sure to create a prominent section early in your resume to list any trade-specific certifications, such as:

Journeyman or Master Electrician
EPA Certification for HVAC Technicians
Plumbing License
OSHA 30-Hour Certification
NCCER Certification (for construction trades)

Make it easy for employers to see that you have the required credentials for the job, as this will often be a deciding factor in whether or not they consider you.

Focus on Skills That Matter

Hiring managers in the trades are looking for specific skills, so be sure your resume emphasizes them. Create a “Skills” section that highlights both your technical abilities and your soft skills. For example:

Technical Skills:

Electrical troubleshooting and repair
Installing and maintaining HVAC systems
Blueprint reading and interpretation
Plumbing installations for residential and commercial projects

Soft Skills:

Problem-solving and critical thinking
Time management on job sites
Team collaboration and communication
Customer service and client relations

Write Clear, Impactful Experience Bullet Points

In your “Work Experience” section, list your most relevant jobs and focus on accomplishments, not just duties. Employers want to know what sets you apart from other candidates. Instead of saying, “Installed HVAC systems,” try something like:

Installed and maintained over 50 residential HVAC systems, reducing energy costs for clients by up to 15%.
Led a team of 5 electricians on commercial building projects, consistently completing jobs on schedule and under budget.

Be specific where possible, mention the number of jobs completed, the size of the team you led, or any special equipment you’ve mastered. Also, don't shy away from highlighting efficiency, safety records, or any cost savings you've contributed to.

Tailor Your Resume to the Job You Want

Each trade job may have its own focus. Are you applying for a residential electrician position or a commercial one? Do you prefer HVAC service work over installation? Adjust your resume to match the job description by emphasizing the relevant experience and skills. For example, if the job is focused on repair work, highlight your troubleshooting expertise and past projects where you've repaired systems under pressure.

Use Simple, Professional Language

Tradespeople may be used to technical jargon, but it’s important to balance that with clarity for your resume. Hiring managers or HR reps may not be as familiar with industry terms, so while it's okay to include some, avoid overloading your resume with complex phrases. Keep it simple, yet professional.

For instance, instead of “Rough-in and top-out plumbing systems for new construction,” you might say, “Installed and finalized plumbing systems for new residential construction, ensuring compliance with local building codes.”

Keep Your Resume Clean and Organized

A professional-looking resume can say a lot about your attention to detail, something that's critical in the trades. Stick to a clean, easy-to-read format with clearly defined sections. Use bullet points to break up text and avoid long paragraphs.

Don’t Forget to Include Safety & Compliance

Safety is paramount in the trades, and your resume should reflect your dedication to it. Mention any safety protocols you follow, training you’ve completed, or certifications related to safety standards (like OSHA). For example:

Complied with all OSHA safety regulations while managing electrical installations on commercial job sites.
Maintained a 100% safety record over 3 years as an HVAC technician.

This will show potential employers that you take safety seriously, a trait they highly value.

Consider Adding a Professional Summary

A brief professional summary at the top of your resume can be a great way to introduce yourself and your experience. Aim for two to three sentences that give a snapshot of who you are, your key skills, and what you bring to the table. For example:

“Detail-oriented Journeyman Plumber with 8 years of experience in residential and commercial installations, repairs, and maintenance. Adept at reading blueprints, troubleshooting issues, and providing excellent customer service. OSHA certified with a strong safety record.”

Showcase Any Leadership or Project Management Experience

Even if you haven’t held a formal leadership title, trades often require informal leadership and management. If you’ve ever led a team, managed a job site, or trained apprentices, be sure to highlight this. Leadership experience can differentiate you from other candidates, especially when applying for higher-level or supervisory roles.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to write a professional resume that highlights your skills, experience, and dedication to your trade. Remember, in the skilled trades, your hands-on abilities are key, but a well-crafted resume is the first step in getting your foot in the door for your next opportunity. Take the time to showcase your expertise, and you’ll stand out to employers looking for the best in the business.

If you're ready to take your career to the next level with a professionally crafted resume, I’m here to help. Whether you're an electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, or any other skilled trades professional, I can work with you to create a resume that showcases your expertise and gets you noticed.

Reach out today to schedule a consultation and let's build a resume that opens doors to your next opportunity.