Writing a resume can be frustrating for manufacturing and engineering professionals. Many workers feel that being good at one’s job should be enough. As the saying goes, the proof is in the pudding.

Unfortunately, prospective employers don’t know if someone is good until later in the interview process. Fair or not, landing a great manufacturing job starts with a terrific resume.

Here are some helpful resume tips to help anyone seeking a new manufacturing job!

1. Be Specific

Many people are too general when citing experience, training, and accomplishments on their resumes. Specificity is essential as it lends credibility to any claims. If an applicant states they’re an accomplished CNC machinist but doesn’t cite evidence, their assertion may be an opinion.

Also, candidates who reference specific details paint memorable pictures in the minds of hiring managers and recruiters. Many job seekers lose out on opportunities simply because they’re overlooked or forgotten. Some specifics worth mentioning include involvement in unique or complex projects, knowledge of relevant technologies, and successful completion of industry-related training.

2. Cite Leadership Experience

Candidates applying for manufacturing jobs aren’t always managers or supervisors. That doesn’t mean leadership experience isn’t necessary or relevant. Companies like to hire people who can guide others and wear multiple hats.

Unfortunately, hiring managers don’t always list every objective in a job posting. Although a role may not sound like a management position, the company might be planning on promoting later down the road. The job could be a way to bring in the right person who can be groomed for bigger and better things.

Leadership comes in many forms, so job seekers who haven’t served as managers or supervisors need not fret. Resumes can also list influential positions on sports teams or in social clubs. For example, many hiring managers view former high school football captains favorably.

3. Demonstrate Creativity

As with leadership qualities, many companies like to hire workers with creative minds. The trait is usually associated with being able to think outside the box. Manufacturing and engineering professionals are often confronted with challenges that can only be resolved through abstract thinking.

Creativity is best demonstrated by noting relevant activities under specific job headings. For example, an applicant may have succeeded in meeting a critical deadline thanks to her implementation of a creative change in the manufacturing process. Subsequently, they should summarize the accomplishment in a bullet point under the job title.

4. Emphasize Reliability

Sadly, crucial qualities most people assume all workers possess cannot be taken for granted. Reliability is a desirable trait that many hiring managers have trouble finding. All manufacturing job candidates should ensure their resumes highlight dependability.

An applicant’s resume may state something like, “Met 95% of all project deadlines.” Or a candidate makes a note of their low rate of absenteeism when compared to co-workers.

5. Final Considerations

Ultimately, a manufacturing resume is simply a ticket to get through the first checkpoint of the hiring process. Its goal is to secure the all-important interview. Once a suitable candidate gets their foot in the door, their professionalism and expertise will seal the deal!

Are you looking for a top manufacturing job?

Manufacturing and engineering are undergoing a seismic shift, and it has left many businesses in this sector struggling to find top talent. Companies can’t find great people, and talented professionals can’t uncover the right opportunities. Goodwin Recruiting specializes in bridging the gap, connecting expert talent with the right position.

If you’re an engineering or manufacturing professional seeking a new opportunity, be sure to check out these great jobs.