A solid resume is key to getting hired in construction. Our construction resume example and writing tips show you exactly how to build a resume that grabs employers' attention. Learn what to include, how to highlight your skills and experience, and how to format it for maximum impact. Follow our guide and boost your chances of landing the construction job you want.
A resume is very important if you want to get hired for a construction job. Managers look at hundreds of resumes, so yours needs to quickly show your best skills and experience. But a lot of construction workers struggle with making a resume that stands out.
Don't worry though - it's actually pretty easy to write a great construction resume. This article will show you exactly how to do it step-by-step. You'll learn what information to include, how to highlight your abilities, and see an example of a finished resume.
By following this guide, you can create a resume that gets noticed by hiring managers and helps you land the construction job you want. Let's get started on making your resume right now!
Common Responsibilities Listed on Construction Resumes
Interpreting blueprints and construction plans
Coordinating and supervising construction workers and subcontractors
Ensuring compliance with building codes, safety regulations, and quality standards
Monitoring project progress and adhering to schedules and budgets
Ordering and managing construction materials and equipment
Resolving any issues or conflicts that arise during the construction process
Maintaining accurate records and documentation of project activities
Conducting site inspections and quality control checks
Collaborating with architects, engineers, and other professionals involved in the project
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How to write a Resume Summary
The art of piecing together an engaging and striking resume takes finesse. Among every other part of it, the summary or objective section is seen as one of the most valuable components. But why is it so important? Is it because this section serves as the first touchpoint between you and your potential employer? Certainly! But, there's another potentially overlooked benefit as well.
The summary/objective pint-sized space allows you to distill down the essence of who you are as a professional, what you bring to the table, and where your aspirations lie. It directly communicates with those who hold the decision power on whether or not you pass through the gate to an interview. Thus, it only makes sense to fill this section with the most powerful snapshot about you.
As an individual in the sector of construction, your focus should be on showcasing your skills, experiences, and aspirations that relate to your field. It's certainly not a place to regurgitate what's said in the professional work experience or skills section. Instead, it should combine elements of all sections, and give a quick glimpse into your career narrative.
The summary/objective section in a resume is a marketing space and should be treated as such. You are essentially pitching 'Brand You'. So, it is important to communicate why you are the solution to a company's needs.
Without diving into complicated jargon and difficult-to-understand concepts, let's break down the elements of a top-notch summary/objective in the construction industry.
Here are some handy tips to ensure your summary/objective shines:
Straightforward and brief: Your summary should be concise, aiming for four to six lines. The objective is to grab attention and keep it. Therefore, get straight to the point in detailing your professional summary or career objectives.
Focused on the construction industry: It is essential that your summary/objective section remains concentration on your role as a professional in the construction field. Reflect on what you have accomplished in your career till now and what you want to achieve in this industry.
High praise, but honest: Speak high of yourself, but within the bounds of reality. Exaggerated or untruthful statements can erode your credibility. Instead, a well-rounded yet honest scope will work in your favor.
Experiences are gold: While the other sections of your resume will cover your experiences in detail, summarizing these experiences here will win you extra favor. In simple terms mention how your experience has outfitted you with skills that can benefit their organization.
Future aspirations matter: Articulating where you see your career in the future can play to your advantage. An understanding of where you want to go will show you have thought through your career path.
Remember, not every summary/objective is created equal. To succeed, your draft must catch the reader's eye immediately; it must impart an understanding of your professional persona, your experience, and your career goals — all without veering off the path of simplicity and readability. Remember, positioning 'Brand You' aptly is the key. The right admixture of conciseness, hit-to-the-point precision, industry-focus, honest portrayal, showcasing experience, and a sprinkle of aspirations can do wonders in this space.
Strong Summaries
Results-driven Construction Project Manager with over a decade of success in directing large scale residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects. Proven abilities in simultaneous management of several multimillion-dollar projects whilst optimising resources and achieving up to 20% cost savings.
Experienced Construction Superintendent with a background in civil engineering and a record of finished projects 10% under budget. Proficient in using AutoCAD for designing and implementing construction plans.
Seasoned Estimator with adeptness in material take-offs, cost analysis, and bid preparation in fast-paced construction setting. Known for boosting business profitability by enhancing systems for cost monitoring and control.
Solid Construction Foreman with proven expertise in managing teams, planning and coordinating worksites, and ensuring adherence to safety regulations. Demonstrated efficiency in project completion, regularly finishing projects ahead of schedule highlighted by a significant decrease in operating costs.
Why these are strong?
These examples are good practices because they effectively communicate the candidates' skills, work experiences, and achievements in a concise manner. They are equipped with industry-specific keywords which are important for passing through Applicant Tracking Systems. Each example reflects customization according to the specific role such as 'Project Manager', 'Superintendent', 'Estimator', or 'Foreman'. This is a good practice as it shows the applicants' knowledge and expertise in the particular role they are applying for. Furthermore, having quantitative accomplishments (cost savings, project completion rates) in the professional summary can strongly boost the appeal as it provides measurable and concrete proof of the applicant's capabilities.
Weak Summaries
I have worked in construction. I like building things.
I have been in the construction industry for years and have built houses, offices, etc. In my free time, I like to fish, hunt and spend time with my family.
I am skilled in construction. I think I am good at what I do. I like to work hard and do work.
Looking for a construction job to earn money and have something to do.
In my previous job, I did construction. Now looking for a new job in the same line.
Why these are weak?
The bad examples provided could be seen frequently on resumes. They are realistic, but they exhibit a number of problems that make them undesirable for a Professional Summary section for a Construction resume.
The first example is very vague and does not provide any detail about the individual's specific skills, experiences or achievements in the construction industry.
The second example includes personal details that are not relevant to the job. The focal point ought to be on professional attributes rather than personal hobbies.
The third example lacks specificity and is too self-centred, missing the chance to show the employer how you would be an asset to their company.
The fourth example shows a lack of motivation and wouldn't convince the hiring manager that you're passionate about your work or their project.
The last example does not show any progression or notable achievements from the previous job.
Professional summaries should be precise, engaging, and should highlight one's skills and experiences which make them an ideal candidate for the role.
Showcase your Work Experience
In many corners of the world of employment, success can hinge on a well-compiled summary of one's past positions and tasks. Indeed, a significant component of any resume is the Work Experience section, or WE for short. This specific part provides an at-a-glance overview of your professional history for employers, including the firms with which you’ve worked, the responsibilities you’ve held, and the successes you've had. Moreover, it implies your ability and efficiency in the role you've applied for.
The Building Blocks of your Work Experience Section
Putting together the WE can be embarked on in a quite simple and clear way. Begin with listing your previous places of labour. Structure this in reverse-chronological order, starting from the most recent position. For each job, add the name of the employer, your job title, the geographical location, as well as the duration of your employment.
In addition to this basic structure, you need to flesh out your professional achievements as a part of each role, and not just enlist the tasks you were given. Let it echo your positive impact in the organisations you've been part of. But remember: every claim or achievement you express must be quantifiable or measurable. This approach, in tandem with honesty, will only stand to heighten the level of trust a potential employer might place in you.
Tailoring the WE to Align with the Prospective Position
As opposed to crafting a generic WE, target it to the scenario of your prospective job. By aligning the duties, accomplishments, and skills from past positions with those required in the potential job, you present yourself as an easily integrable and potentially beneficial member of the new team. The objective here is simple: you want the recruiting bodies to envision you working efficiently in that role.
Expert Tip
Quantify your achievements and impact using concrete numbers, metrics, and percentages to demonstrate the value you brought to your previous roles.
Remember, Honesty is Your Best Ally
A golden rule to adhere to is accuracy. Avoid the temptation of exaggeration or dishonesty; the truth will prevail eventually and it rarely ends well. Resisting the urge to enhance your work experience with fictitious achievements may actually work in your favour. Employers value integrity as a trait and hence, trustworthiness goes a long way in securing any position.
Final Polish
Keep an eye for brevity and linearity in your WE section. This will ease the potential employer's process of understanding your professional journey while maintaining interest. Simple, direct language is your ally.
To wrap it up, consider the 'Work Experience' section as a window into your professional life. It deserves the same attention to detail, honesty, and strategic thinking that you would accord any other project. Offering a clear, precise and attractive synopsis of your professional life can be a significant game-changer in your career path.
Strong Experiences
Supervised a team of 20 construction workers, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and quality of work
Managed the procurement of building materials, achieving cost savings of 15%
Oversaw completion of construction projects, completing 90% of them within scheduled timelines
Performed regular inspections of construction sites, leading to a 10% decrease in safety incidents
Established effective communication channels with external vendors, reducing material delay times by 20%
Why these are strong?
The above examples follow the 'STAR' format (Situation, Task, Action, Result), which is considered best practice for writing resume bullet points. Each bullet point clearly shows the situation faced, the task taken on, the action executed, and the result achieved. Moreover, these examples are specific, quantifiable, and relevant to the construction industry. They all highlight useful skills and qualifications for a construction job, such as teamwork, management, cost efficiency, adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication.
Weak Experiences
- Made stuff
- Worked on things
- Just did what they told me
- Passed time from 9-5
- Construction
- Build buildings and stuff
Why these are weak?
Using such ambiguous and vague bullet points on a work experience resume section can reduce your chances of making an impression or even qualifying for the next step of the hiring process. Employers are typically looking for specific details about your skills, experiences, and responsibilities, which these examples don't provide. This can be seen as a bad practice as it doesn't paint a clear picture of your capabilities, contributions, and role in your previous employment. This might also convey a lack of effort, seriousness or understanding of the job being applied for.
Skills, Keywords & ATS Tips
Resumes are a crucial part of any job search, including in the construction industry. It's where we showcase who we are, what we can do and how we can add value. For one to stand out, it needs more than just job experience or education; it needs a balance of hard and soft skills, especially in the skills section.
Hard Skills and Soft Skills
Hard skills relate to technical knowledge, things you learn through education or training. In construction, hard skills could include proficiency with hand and power tools, knowledge of building codes or construction project management. They show you have the technical ability to perform the job and often form the must-have part of job descriptions.
On the other hand, soft skills, sometimes called people skills, are attributes that help you work effectively with others. You don't learn these in a classroom but through life. In construction, examples might include good communication, teamwork or problem-solving. Even though these skills might not be directly related to construction work, they're still crucial because they help you collaborate with your team, deal with potential issues on site, etc..
Matching your hard and soft skills to the requirements in the job description is essential because it shows the employer that you have what they're looking for, increasing your chances of getting hired.
Keywords and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
These are fancy words used for simple concepts. Keywords are words or phrases that employers are searching for in your resume. For example, if the job description mentions 'commercial construction experience', 'commercial construction' is likely a keyword.
To make this simple, your resume should include the same keywords used in the job description. But, be careful. Don't just embed them anywhere in your resume. They need to be found primarily in the section where it is expected. For example, the 'commercial construction experience' should be within the skills or experience sections.
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools that companies use to find those keywords in your resume. This software scans each resume and gives it a score based on how well it matches the keywords in the job description. The higher the score, the higher the probability your resume will be sent to a hiring manager.
To summarise, your resume should show that you meet the necessary hard and soft skills for the job. Use relevant keywords from the job description, especially in the skills section, to ensure that your resume scores high with Applicant Tracking Systems and is noticed by potential employers in the construction industry.
Top Hard & Soft Skills for Full Stack Developers
Hard Skills
Blueprint Reading
Construction Management
Building Codes Knowledge
Project Scheduling
Budget Management
Quality Control
Safety Regulations Compliance
Structural Engineering
Site Management
Material Procurement
Cost Estimation
Equipment Operation
Concrete Work
Carpentry Skills
Plumbing Knowledge
Soft Skills
Effective Communication
Problem-Solving
Teamwork
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Leadership
Adaptability
Critical Thinking
Decision Making
Conflict Resolution
Customer Service
Stress Management
Negotiation Skills
Creativity
Interpersonal Skills
Top Action Verbs
Use action verbs to highlight achievements and responsibilities on your resume.
Managed projects
Coordinated schedules
Oversaw construction sites
Ensured compliance with regulations
Collaborated with team members
Resolved conflicts
Communicated with stakeholders
Estimated project costs
Supervised subcontractors
Inspected work progress
Implemented safety measures
Procured materials
Operated heavy machinery
Completed carpentry tasks
Installed plumbing fixtures
Scheduled inspections
Conducted quality checks
Resolved issues promptly
Adapted to changing conditions
Led team meetings
Negotiated contracts
Managed budgets effectively
Evaluated project performance
Implemented design changes
Coached team members
Documented project progress
Optimized construction processes
Delivered projects on time
Improved efficiency
Innovated construction methods
Trained new hires
Motivated team members
Maintained accurate records
Reviewed blueprints
Prepared work schedules
Handled client inquiries
Education
Adding your education and credentials to a resume can greatly enhance your professional profile, especially in the construction industry. First, create a dedicated section called 'Education' or 'Certificates'. Then, list your qualifications, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the institution, degree earned, and dates of completion. For certificates, specify the issuing authority and the skills it validates. Finally, tailor your credentials to the job description to emphasize your suitability for the role. Do remember to keep your descriptions concise and clear.
Resume FAQs for Constructions
question
What is the ideal length for a construction resume?
Answer
The ideal length for a construction resume is typically one page. However, if you have extensive experience or specialized certifications, it can be up to two pages. The key is to be concise and highlight your most relevant qualifications.
question
What format should I use for my construction resume?
Answer
The most recommended format for a construction resume is the reverse-chronological format. This format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. It's the most straightforward and widely accepted format in the construction industry.
question
How should I list my construction projects on my resume?
Answer
When listing construction projects on your resume, include the project name, location, your role or responsibilities, the project duration, and any notable achievements or challenges you overcame. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, such as the project's size, budget, or timeline.
question
Should I include my certifications and licenses on my construction resume?
Answer
Yes, it's essential to include your certifications and licenses on your construction resume. These credentials demonstrate your expertise and qualifications in the field. List them in a dedicated section, along with the issuing organization and expiration dates (if applicable).
Construction Resume Example
Construction workers are responsible for following blueprints to build and repair structures using specialized tools and materials while adhering to safety protocols. When crafting a resume for construction roles, highlight any relevant experience operating machinery and equipment. Include certifications like OSHA to demonstrate workplace safety knowledge. Use concise bullet points to outline duties performed at previous construction jobs, emphasizing your ability to interpret blueprints and plans. Quantify accomplishments where possible to showcase your skills.
Judd Vargas
judd.vargas@example.com
•
(220) 622-8454
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linkedin.com/in/judd.vargas
Construction
Highly skilled and experienced construction professional with a proven track record of delivering complex projects on time and within budget. Adept at managing teams, coordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Committed to delivering exceptional quality and customer satisfaction on every project.
Work Experience
Construction Site Supervisor
01/2019 - Present
Apex Construction Group
Oversaw construction of a $50 million mixed-use development, ensuring project was completed on schedule and within budget
Managed a team of 50+ workers, coordinating daily tasks and monitoring progress to maintain high levels of productivity
Implemented stringent safety protocols, resulting in a 50% reduction in worksite accidents and injuries
Collaborated with architects, engineers, and subcontractors to resolve design and construction issues promptly
Received the "Outstanding Leadership Award" for exceptional performance and dedication to the project
Construction Project Manager
06/2016 - 12/2018
Buildtech Solutions
Managed the construction of a 200-unit luxury apartment complex, delivering the project 2 months ahead of schedule
Developed and implemented a comprehensive project plan, ensuring effective coordination between all stakeholders
Optimized construction processes, resulting in a 15% reduction in material waste and a 10% increase in labor efficiency
Conducted regular quality control inspections, ensuring all work met or exceeded client specifications
Negotiated favorable contracts with suppliers and subcontractors, resulting in significant cost savings for the project
Construction Foreman
03/2012 - 05/2016
Skyline Builders
Supervised a crew of 20 workers on various commercial construction projects, ensuring timely completion and high-quality workmanship
Coordinated material deliveries and equipment rentals, maintaining a well-organized and efficient job site
Trained and mentored new crew members, promoting a culture of safety, teamwork, and professional development
Collaborated with project managers to develop and implement effective solutions to construction challenges
Consistently received positive feedback from clients for exceptional work quality and professional demeanor
Skills
Construction site supervision
Project management
Blueprints and schematics interpretation
Safety compliance and enforcement
Quality control and assurance
Budgeting and cost control
Scheduling and timeline management
Subcontractor coordination
Material and equipment procurement
Workforce management and training
Problem-solving and decision-making
Effective communication
Leadership and teamwork
Attention to detail
Adaptability and flexibility
Education
Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management