In your construction worker resume, you must convince the HR manager that you can handle all this work on one page.
Writing a resume is an easy task, but writing one that gets the job is quite challenging. In this guide, we will describe the exact steps to create a perfect resume for a construction worker that lets you land the high-paying job you always wanted.
Let's get started!
Insights into the Construction Worker Resume
Construction workers are hard-working, so they are being rewarded for that. On average, they earn $45,000/year (Payscale.com).
If you are a jack of all trades, your salary will be below the average, and you will mostly be involved in material distribution, loading-unloading, removing debris, and assisting other specialized workers.
If you can do specialized construction work such as bricklaying, carpentry, painting, and plumbing, you will be paid above average.
Do you know the best thing about being a construction worker?
Your earnings are unlimited!
Most construction sites work for tight schedules. They love workers who work extra. Construction projects typically offer overtime, night work, holiday, and weekend work for the construction laborer, and most companies pay additional for these hours.
How to Write a Professional Construction Resume
A typical hiring manager of a construction company gets hundreds of resumes every day for multiple construction job sites and positions. Therefore, the time they would spend on your resume is less than 10 seconds.
In addition, most construction companies now use applicant tracking systems to shortlist resumes.
Follow these general rules for writing your resume:
- Keep Your Resume to One Page
Limit your resume to one page, focusing on the most relevant experience and skills for the job. A concise, well-organized resume is more manageable for recruiters to review.
- Analyze the Job Description
Carefully read the job description to understand the employer's requirements. Tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experience that align with the position.
- Choose a Professional Resume Template
Use a clean, attractive template that is easy to read and visually appealing. Ensure it reflects your style without overwhelming the content.
- Maintain a Clear Layout and Structure
Organize your resume with clear headings, consistent formatting, and logical sections. This helps recruiters quickly find the information they need.
- Be Concise and Focused
Write your resume in a direct, to-the-point manner. Avoid unnecessary details and ensure every word adds value to your qualifications and experience.
The Layout of the Construction Worker Resume
The layout refers to the structure and organization of your resume, including the headings and sections you choose to include. A clear and well-defined layout greatly simplifies the process of creating your resume and ensures that important information is easy to find.
Use this layout for your construction resume:
- Name and contact information on the header
- Professional summary
- Work experience
- Education
- Skills
- Additional sections
The Structure of the Construction Worker Resume
A clean structure would make your resume stand out from the rest. As we mentioned earlier, the average hiring manager takes less than 10 seconds to review a typical construction laborer's resume.
Writing your resume in a quality structure makes them want to read more.
How can you extend this time?
- Use reverse chronological order: List your most recent job experience first.
- Include bullet points for each job: Provide a few concise points describing what you did in each role.
- Save time for the hiring manager: This format makes it easy for them to find your most recent experience quickly.
- Increase chances of being shortlisted: By saving time, you improve the likelihood that your resume will stand out.
- Be extra careful not to make any spelling or grammar mistakes. This will send the wrong message about your personality.
- Send the resume in MS Word or PDF format. Check the job description to see if it specifies a format.
- Use margins consistently.
- Use readable and visible fonts and big headings.
If you don’t want to think about fonts, margins, headings, and all other basic formatting when you write your resume, consider using our resume templates, which are ideal for Construction Worker resumes.
Now that we've covered the overall structure of your resume, let's dive into one of the most important sections: the header. This part may seem simple, but it's essential to get it right, as it provides the first impression and ensures the hiring manager can easily contact you. Here’s what you need to include in your resume header.
Start with the Header of the Construction Resume
Every HR manager will read your resume header, at least your name. So, it's important to put some thought into crafting it. While this section may seem straightforward, it's crucial to include the right information. In the following section, we’ve outlined the key elements that should be included in your resume header.
Good and bad examples of a header
CORRECTJohn Smith
Construction worker
johnsmith@gmail.com
+1 254 65 72 69
INCORRECTConstruction worker
John Smith
johnthebest@gmail.com
+1 224 67 14 76
101, main street, apt 24,
Washington DC
USA
Follow these steps when writing your header:
- Start with your name. Use the first name and the last name
- Mention your title
- Use a professional-looking email address
- Put a phone number so that you can be directly contacted. Preferably your mobile number
Should You Include a Photo in a Construction Worker Resume?
HR managers typically focus on your skills, experience, and qualifications rather than your appearance. Including a photo won’t influence their decision and may even distract them from the key information they seek.
Additionally, many organizations consider requesting a photo as a potential source of bias or discrimination in the hiring process. Some companies even have policies against including photos for this reason. To avoid any perception of bias and keep the focus on your qualifications, it's best to leave a photo off your resume.
Choosing your Construction Worker Title
In general, your title would be Construction Worker. However, if you are a specialized worker such as a plumber, painter, bricklayer, or mason, you can state that.
How to Write a Powerful Professional Summary for Construction Jobs
If you were asked to express your experience and expertise in two sentences, what would you say?
If you were given a few seconds to convince the construction project manager, what would you say?
That should be your professional summary. It will be a sales pitch to show them you are what they are looking for.
This is a two-sentence summary of how your experience and expertise working in the construction industry would add value to your next position. Show them how your work ethic can help the construction manager achieve his targets.
Nevertheless, most applicants consider this section the most challenging to write. We are going to change that perception.
CORRECTINCORRECTTailor Your Professional Summary to the Job
- Customize your summary to match the job description and highlight the skills, experiences, and qualities the employer is looking for.
- Use keywords directly from the job listing. This can help ensure your resume passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catches the recruiter’s eye.
Emphasize Your Relevant Experience
- Focus on the experiences that best align with the job's responsibilities and requirements. This will help the recruiter quickly assess your qualifications.
Showcase Your Key Skills
- Include both hard and soft skills that are essential for the role. If the job requires specific technical skills, certifications, or tools, highlight those.
Make an Immediate Impact
- Write a compelling, concise summary that grabs attention right away. Your goal is for the recruiter to feel you are the right fit after reading just the first few lines.
Demonstrate Value
- Show how your previous roles have prepared you to succeed. Mention specific achievements, outcomes, or contributions that illustrate your ability to make a difference.
Use Positive and Confident Language
- Be confident in your summary. Use action-oriented language that highlights your capabilities and enthusiasm for the role.
Align Your Career Goals with the Employer's Needs
- Ensure your professional goals and aspirations match the company's requirements. This will show alignment and long-term interest in the role.
Keep it Concise
- Your professional summary should be brief—usually 3-4 sentences. Focus on what’s most relevant and impactful for the position you’re applying for.
Showcasing Your Construction Experience Effectively
The experience section is the most sought-after part of any resume, and it is the same for construction workers.
This will make or break your next construction resume and your dream job. Your construction jobs resume should highlight the experience you have had in a similar capacity. A quality experience section would get you multiple times more interviews than any other resume strategy.
Don’t have much experience?
We understand that not everyone is an expert when applying for a construction laborer’s job, but there should be a beginning to every journey. We will walk you through the process to align whatever experience you have to the job ad.
Remember, it is not just about what you have done. It is also about how you write them!
Describe your professional experiences on your Construction Worker Resume
As we discussed in structuring the resume, you should list your experience in reverse chronological order. Start your experience section with your latest experience. If you are currently employed, you could list it first.
If you have worked in multiple positions, write down what applies to the job you apply for in detail. Otherwise, you can list the company name and the dates you worked there.
Use numbers to quantify your achievements. Numbers add excitement and integrity to your experience. These strategies extend the time a hiring manager spends on your resume.
Examples of professional experiences for an Entry Level Construction Worker
Here is an example of experience section for an entry-level construction resume:
CORRECTAug 2016 to Present
LPL Engineering Ltd
- Achieved the daily construction target by assisting the team
- Involved in steel fabrication and roof installation
- Assisted loading and unloading operations under supervisory instructions
- Spread concrete for 100 cubic meters slab with other construction workers
INCORRECTAug 2019 to Present
LPL Engineering Ltd
- Construction material loading and unloading
- Operated hand and power tools
- Pouring concrete
- Painted walls
Examples of work experience for a Senior Construction Worker
Here is an example of experience section for a senior-level construction resume
CORRECTAug 2016 to Present
ACCESS Constructions Ltd
- Managed a team of 15 labors for an overnight concrete spread of 200 cubic meters
- Mentor junior team members on structural components
- Worked with power tools for efficient building processes
- Used cleaning solutions, construction chemicals, and other material following safety procedures
- Worked with the supervisors to create a safe workplace environment
INCORRECTAug 2015 to Present
ACCESS Constructions Ltd
- Safety hazards identification
- Building temporary structures
- Sprinkler systems installation
- HVAC systems maintenance
Examples of work experience for Construction Worker with NO experience
Should entry-level construction laborers also list their experience?
Of course, though, it sounds odd.
Let recruiters know that you are a no-risk hire for them by relating your previous experience to construction work. Here is an example
CORRECTAug 2019 to May 2020
GRL Retail- Maintenance worker
- Hands-on experience working with multiple power tools such as drills, power saws, breakers, and grinders
- Involved in a roof renovation project
- Assisted safe loading and unloading of retail stock daily
INCORRECTNo Construction experience
- Fast learner
- High stamina for work in a challenging environment
With your experience outlined, let’s move to the educational qualifications that enhance your profile.
Education in the Construction Worker Resume
Most construction laborer job descriptions would not highlight the specific education qualifications you need to possess. However, having a high school diploma would be an advantage.
Rather than just listing your high school diploma, consider aligning that to the job you apply for by picking the relevant learnings.
Should You Start with Education or Work Experience on a Construction Worker Resume?
For a construction worker resume, it's best to start with the work experience section. The experience section is the most critical part, and the HR manager looks for it as soon as they see your resume.
Here is why:
- Experience Matters Most: Hiring managers in the construction industry prioritize hands-on experience, skills, and accomplishments over formal education. Your expertise in construction projects, tools, and techniques will stand out most to employers.
- Immediate Relevance: The experience section is crucial because it immediately shows your ability to perform the job. HR managers want to see the type of projects you've worked on, your specific responsibilities, and the results you achieved
- Education Is Secondary: While education can be significant, it typically takes a backseat unless you have specialized trade school certifications or degrees directly related to the job.
Let them find what they want quickly. The only exception would be if you are applying just after high school or studying for a construction qualification.
How to properly list your education in a Construction Worker Resume?
Use a proper format to list down your education. List your education like this:
- Name of the school
- Years of education
- Your learnings
Example of the education section
Top Skills to Include on Your Construction Worker Resume
If you do not have much experience working in construction, your skills section could prove to be critical. Recruiters will look for skills listed on your resume to make a decision.
In the job description, hiring managers specifically mention the skills a candidate must possess to do the job. Look closely at the job description and pick out the skills they want.
The golden rule is not to write a generic set of skills and tailor your resume to each job advert
What are the primary skills for a Construction Worker Resume?
There are two types of skills relevant to construction workers. Soft skills and Hard skills. In the resume skills section, you must write a mix of soft and hard skills to create a positive impression.
Here are some example skills:
Soft Skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Negotiation
- Communication
- Problem-solving
Hard Skills:
- Blueprint reading
- Cut materials
- Construction materials knowledge
- Valid driver’s license
- Safety compliance knowledge
Essential Skills for a Junior Construction Worker
A junior position should highlight your hands-on work skills and energy. Key skills include:
- Ability to Follow Instructions: Accurately execute tasks as directed by supervisors or team leaders.
- Work Overtime: Availability to meet project deadlines through extended hours.
- Proficiency with Hand Tools: Familiarity with basic tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches.
- Physical Stamina: Capability to handle demanding environments and long work hours.
- Experience with Spray Guns: Hands-on ability to operate and maintain spray equipment.
- Effective Communication: Clear and concise interactions with team members and supervisors.
Key Skills for a Senior Construction Worker
A senior construction worker should showcase leadership abilities, advanced technical knowledge, and project management experience. Key skills include:
- Mentoring and Supervising: Providing guidance and support to junior laborers, ensuring productivity and safety.
- Advanced Carpentry Skills: Expertise in finish carpentry and detailed woodwork.
- Blueprint Interpretation: Proficiency in reading and understanding construction drawings and specifications.
- Safety Leadership: Ensuring adherence to workplace safety standards and protocols.
- Project Execution: Translating project managers’ instructions into actionable tasks with precision.
- Team Management: Coordinating and managing craft workers to maintain efficiency and quality.
Additional Job-Specific Skills for Construction Workers
Depending on the role, construction workers may benefit from highlighting these specialized skills:
1. Construction Electrician Skills
- Electrical system installation and repair
- Blueprint and schematic reading
- Wiring and circuit troubleshooting
- Knowledge of building codes and safety standards
- Proficiency with hand and power tools
- Electrical panel upgrades and maintenance
2. Carpenters Skills
- Proficiency in measuring, cutting, and assembling materials
- Knowledge of wood properties and other materials
- Reading and interpreting blueprints
- Finish carpentry (e.g., trim, cabinets, and stairs)
- Framing and structural assembly
- Attention to detail and craftsmanship
3. Bricklayer Skills
- Laying bricks, blocks, and stones accurately
- Mixing and applying mortar
- Knowledge of structural stability and design
- Reading construction drawings and blueprints
- Cutting and shaping bricks to fit designs
- Restoration and repair of brickwork
4. Equipment Operator Skills
- Proficiency in operating heavy machinery (e.g., bulldozers, excavators, cranes)
- Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
- Understanding of construction site layouts
- Safe load handling and transport
- Knowledge of soil types and excavation techniques
- Awareness of site safety protocols
5. Site Manager Skills
- Project planning and scheduling
- Team leadership and workforce coordination
- Budget management and cost control
- Knowledge of construction regulations and standards
- Risk assessment and safety enforcement
- Communication and conflict resolution skills
6. Pipe Foreman Skills
- Proficiency in pipe laying and fitting techniques
- Blueprint and layout reading for pipe installations
- Knowledge of plumbing systems and materials
- Quality control and inspection of completed work
- Welding and soldering skills
- Ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards
7. Insulation Installer Skills
- Knowledge of insulation materials (e.g., fiberglass, foam, cellulose)
- Measuring and cutting insulation to fit specific spaces
- Safe handling of hazardous materials
- Familiarity with thermal and acoustic insulation techniques
- Use of tools like blowers and spray equipment
- Attention to detail for energy efficiency
8. Drywall Finisher Skills
- Taping and mudding seams between drywall panels
- Sanding and smoothing surfaces
- Applying textures and finishes
- Measuring and cutting drywall for custom fits
- Knowledge of ceiling installations
- Safe use of taping knives, sanders, and other tools
9. Mason Laborer Skills
- Mixing and applying concrete, mortar, or grout
- Cutting and laying bricks, stones, or tiles
- Operating masonry tools and machinery
- Assisting masons with material preparation and cleanup
- Waterproofing and sealing surfaces
- Knowledge of stone and concrete structures
10. Civil Engineer Skills
- Structural analysis and design
- Proficiency with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit)
- Project management and site supervision
- Knowledge of construction laws and safety standards
- Surveying and geotechnical skills
- Environmental impact assessment
Additional Headings for Your Construction Worker Resume
The sections we discussed are in 95% of the resumes the hiring managers receive, but they only shortlist 5% of the resumes.
How to get to that top 5% is the golden question!
Here is the trick. Use an additional section as a pleasant surprise for the recruiter.
Here are some additional sections you can include on a construction resume
Top Certifications for a Construction Worker Resume
There are professional skills certifications for construction workers. If you have completed a qualification or are studying for one, you could list it here which would add so much value to your profile.
You may even get a placement in a special skill category on the job site with higher pay than the average.
If you have acquired it, be sure to list these certifications and courses:
1. Safety Certifications
- OSHA 10/30 Hour Training (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
- For general construction safety standards.
- For general construction safety standards.
- First Aid/CPR Certification (American Red Cross or equivalent)
- Essential for workplace emergencies.
- Essential for workplace emergencies.
- Certified Safety Professional (CSP)
- Focused on safely working in confined spaces.
- Focused on safely working in confined spaces.
2. Trade-Specific Certifications
- NCCER Certification (National Center for Construction Education and Research)
- Recognized across various trades like plumbing, electrical, and welding.
- Recognized across various trades like plumbing, electrical, and welding.
- EPA 608 Certification (Environmental Protection Agency)
- For those working with HVAC systems.
- For those working with HVAC systems.
- Certified Welder (CW) (American Welding Society)
- For welding-specific roles.
- For welding-specific roles.
3. Equipment and Machinery Training
- Forklift Certification
- OSHA-compliant certification for forklift operators.
- OSHA-compliant certification for forklift operators.
- Scaffolding Erection and Dismantling Certification
- For working with scaffolding structures.
- For working with scaffolding structures.
- Cranes and Hoists Certification
- For safe crane operation.
- For safe crane operation.
4. General Construction Certifications
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM) (Construction Management Association of America)
- Validates construction management expertise.
- Validates construction management expertise.
- LEED Green Associate (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
- Demonstrates knowledge of sustainable construction practices.
- Demonstrates knowledge of sustainable construction practices.
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) Certification (Autodesk or equivalent)
- Focuses on digital construction design.
- Focuses on digital construction design.
5. Technical and Skill-Based Courses
- Blueprint Reading
- Essential for understanding construction drawings and plans.
- Essential for understanding construction drawings and plans.
- Construction Estimation and Project Management Courses
- Develop skills for cost estimation and project oversight.
- Develop skills for cost estimation and project oversight.
- Concrete and Masonry Certification
- Specialized skills for concrete and masonry work.
- Specialized skills for concrete and masonry work.
6. Sustainability and Specialized Skills
- Asbestos Awareness Certification
- For handling asbestos safely.
- For handling asbestos safely.
- Sustainable Construction Techniques Course
- Focus on eco-friendly building methods.
- Focus on eco-friendly building methods.
- Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installation Certification
- For working in renewable energy construction.
- For working in renewable energy construction.
7. Other Notable Certifications
- H2S Awareness Certification (Hydrogen Sulfide Safety)
- For workers in oil and gas-heavy construction zones.
- For workers in oil and gas-heavy construction zones.
- Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) Certification
- For managing traffic in construction zones.
- For managing traffic in construction zones.
- Rigging and Signal Person Certification
- Ensures compliance with OSHA’s crane operation standards.
- Ensures compliance with OSHA’s crane operation standards.
Apart from these certificates, any skill certification that shows your expertise in a particular field as a mason, carpenter, bricklayer, ironworker, painter, plumber, or welder would be pretty valuable to list.
If you have any skills in essential Microsoft Office and related software, that would be an additional qualification.
Interests in a Construction Worker Resume
List your interests if they relate to the job you are applying for. Do not list a generic set of interests that has nothing to do with the job position.
How to Choose Interests for Your Resume
- Relevance: Ensure your interests relate to construction, teamwork, or the company's values.
- Skills Highlighting: Include hobbies demonstrating creativity, craftsmanship, or problem-solving skills.
- Character Building: Showcase interests that reflect responsibility, dedication, and strong work ethic.
- Community Engagement: Highlight volunteer activities or initiatives that show your commitment to helping others or improving the community.
Examples of Interests
Creative and Skill-Related Interests
- Designing and Building Custom Furniture
- Restoring Antique Structures or Furniture
- DIY Home Improvement Projects
Safety and Team-Oriented Interests
- Participating in Community Safety Drills
- Coaching a Local Sports Team
- Organizing Tool Maintenance Workshops
Physical and Outdoor Interests
- Mountain Climbing or Hiking
- Volunteering for Habitat for Humanity Projects
- Landscaping and Outdoor Gardening
Technical and Tool-Oriented Interests
- Repairing Small Engines or Machinery
- Learning and Testing New Construction Tools or Techniques
- Experimenting Sustainable Construction Materials
Cultural and Personal Development Interests
- Studying Historical Architecture
- Photography of Architectural Structures
- Attending Construction or Trade Fairs
Languages in a Construction Worker Resume
If you are fluent in a few languages, you may list them. Some construction sites have workers from different geographical areas talking in different languages. Your language skills may be a valuable asset for the company in managing and communicating with them.
How to Handle Employment Gaps in Your Resume
Employment gaps are common, but you can turn them into a positive by focusing on what you learned or accomplished during that time. Here’s how:
- Highlight Transferable Skills
Did you learn new skills during your gap? Whether through freelancing, taking courses, or managing personal projects, include these on your resume. Skills like problem-solving, communication, or leadership are valuable to employers.
- Include Volunteer Work
If you volunteered, treat it like paid work. Mention your role, responsibilities, and achievements. Volunteering shows that you stayed active and committed.
- Show Personal Projects
Personal projects, like home renovations or a side business, are great to mention. They show initiative, creativity, and time management—skills employers value.
- Explain the Gap (If needed)
If the gap was for personal reasons, briefly mention it. Please keep it simple and focus on how you grew during that time and are ready for your next opportunity.
Summary: Key Points for Writing a Perfect Construction Worker Resume
- It is essential that your name and contact information appear at the top of your resume
- A summary of your accomplishments, experiences, and skills is appropriate
- List your experiences in reverse chronological order
- Describe your education and how it relates to working in construction
- Put together a mix of soft skills and hard skills
- Give the hiring manager a pleasant surprise by including certifications, interests, and languages in the CV
Write Cover Letters That Goes With Your Construction Worker Resume
A cover letter is an ideal way to communicate to your employer why you are a great hire. In other words, you can use this as your sales pitch.
Include your past experiences, strengths, and expertise in one paragraph. Write about how you can help them increase the efficiency of the project work if they hire you, which is the greatest problem every project manager faces.
However, employers do not have time to review each applicant's cover letter. Therefore, refer to the job description as they would state the requirement of a cover letter
