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Table of contents

Popular construction resume samples
How to write a construction resume
Construction resume examples by experience level
Add a cover letter
Facts about the construction industry
Key takeaways for your construction resume
Commonly asked question about resume writing

The cornerstone to your job search is a strong construction resume. Smart job seekers know that learning how to write a construction resume that stands out from the crowd is a tool that will help you build the career you want. Think of it as the scaffolding that supports your entire job search.

Whether you’re a master carpenter or a midcareer professional who is looking to update your construction project manager resume, your resume will dictate whether or not you land a job interview.

Here, you’ll learn how to create a resume that will help you get noticed because, even when jobs are plentiful, competition for the best roles can be fierce.

This guide will show you:

Popular construction resume examples.
How to write a construction resume.
Construction resumes for different experience levels.
Why cover letters are an important addition.
Key takeaways as you begin your job search.

Need a resume immediately? Skip this guide and head straight to our Resume Maker. Just follow the prompts in the builder and populate your resume with the auto-suggested content for the construction role you want. In just minutes, you’ll have a competitive resume to apply for the construction job you’re after! It’s that simple.

Popular construction resume samples

Construction is a varied field that has many different job titles, each of which requires a different set of skills. Whether you’re writing a construction worker resume or are seeking an internship in construction, studying a resume example can help you learn how to make a resume that will help you stand out.

Here are three top construction resume examples for you.

Are you looking for a different job title? Check out the job titles below or head to our full library of resume examples:

How to write a construction resume

Eager to get your next big construction job? Start by learning how to write a construction resume that will get recruiters to reach out for an interview.

A good first step when you begin to build your resume is to sketch out a resume outline. This should include:

Your contact info at the top.
An engaging professional summary or resume objective.
A section (or two) outlining your most relevant skills.
Your work experience, starting with your most recent job.
Degrees and diplomas for your education section.
A few optional sections to add personality to your resume.

Now, let’s break down each of these parts.

Step 1

Fill in your header

Your resume header contains your contact information, which is critical in the job search. After all, a recruiter can’t invite you to interview if they can’t reach you! In this section, include your name, professional email address, phone number and links to your LinkedIn profile and portfolio, if applicable.

Here’s what belongs in a resume header:

Your name
Location (city and state)
Telephone number
Professional email address
Link to your LinkedIn profile
Link to your portfolio, if applicable

Writing tip

When selecting a resume template, choose one that is industry appropriate and easy to scan. For roles in construction, which exist across industries, choose a versatile modern or simple resume template, which will be appropriate for many different work environments. Regardless of the style you choose, however, your contact information should be front and center, in a font that is easy to read.

Step 2

Draft a professional summary or resume objective

Every resume should start with an introduction in the form of either a professional summary or a resume objective.

A professional summary is a good choice for construction applicants with a few years of direct work experience because it gives you the space to discuss past roles and showcase your professional achievements. Professional summaries for construction resumes should touch on your top skills, mention your experience level and highlight your most impressive accomplishments — using data and metrics, if possible.
A resume objective is best for entry-level construction applicants. Instead of focusing on work history, a resume objective allows you to talk about your construction training, goals and soft skills. Think of it as a short introduction, usually two to three sentences long, that allows you to tell recruiters what training and skills you bring to the table and your career goals. It’s an opportunity to make a great first impression, even if you’re just starting out in the construction field.

Let’s see what this looks like in action:

Sample objective for a construction resume:

Construction carpenter with a passion for crafting high-quality structures and bringing architectural visions to life seeks a full-time role. Backed by a comprehensive apprenticeship and one year of hands-on work experience, brings commitment to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and exceeding project goals. Proficient in blueprint interpretation, precise measurements and utilizing a wide array of carpentry tools and techniques. Attention to detail, strong work ethic and a collaborative approach contribute to successful project completion. Seeking an opportunity to leverage my expertise and skills in a dynamic construction team.

Sample construction resume summary:

Construction professional with four years of experience and a proven track record of successfully contributing to the construction of diverse commercial real estate projects. Diligent and detail-oriented, consistently deliver high-quality results while adhering to project timelines and budgets. Dedication to safety, strong teamwork and expertise in managing construction processes has resulted in a 20% reduction in project completion time on average..

Writing tip

Your resume summary is a great place to briefly discuss your proudest achievements. Whether it’s sharing metrics on a highly successful construction project or mentioning an award or honor you received in school, these numbers catch the attention of hiring managers by showing them what you’ll bring to the table if hired.

Step 3

Create a list of relevant skills

Skills are important for every job, but professionals in construction roles require a special mix of hard and soft skills to be successful. Smart applicants know to focus on their technical skills, but also to emphasize their soft skills, which are the interpersonal skills that make you great at your job.

Whether you’re a construction executive or an entry-level applicant, hiring managers will be looking closely at the construction skills you list in your resume skills section. Construction skills should be added to your resume skills section, your work experience section, and in your resume objective or professional summary.

Writing tip

Soft skills are critical for construction professionals because they enhance your ability to connect with people, collaborate and think creatively. Since they are essential for success in the dynamic and customer-centric construction industry, give them the spotlight they deserve on your resume.

Sample construction resume skills:

Hard Skills

Carpentry expertise
Blueprint interpretation
Project management
Scheduling
Strategic planning
Subcontractor management

Soft Skills

Problem-solving
Attention to detail
Collaboration
Time management
Communication
Adaptability

Don’t overlook the importance of having a well-rounded mix of hard and soft skills on your construction resume. In the world of construction, hard skills such as the ability to operate tools and machinery are absolutely essential. But, since many roles are customer-facing or require teamwork, soft skills like communication and problem-solving are equally important and highly valued. Be sure to find a balance between your hard skills and soft skills on your resume.

Step 4

Build a standout work experience section

Your work experience section gives you a chance to show potential employers that you’ve got what it takes to do the job you seek by giving them real examples of the impact your construction work has had for past employers. But remember — simply writing a list of work responsibilities from your past construction roles won’t capture the attention of a recruiter.

Instead, assemble a work experience section that shows a three-dimensional picture of your professional life in construction through the use of action words, data and metrics. Each entry should include the company name and location, your job title and the dates you were employed. Then add three to five bullet points that describe your responsibilities and achievements.

Writing tip

Adding data and metrics to your construction work experience section will impress recruiters by showcasing the breadth of your responsibilities and the tangible impact you’ve had on your company’s success. Since results are of significant importance in construction, consider highlighting the number of projects you complete annually, the size of the construction team you manage, or the revenue you have been able to save clients through your efficiency. These quantifiable metrics not only highlight your accomplishments but also demonstrate your value in measurable terms.

Construction work experience entry example:

Construction Manager | 1/2017 to Present

Cochran Builders

Bend, OR

Successfully lead and manage construction projects ranging from $10 million to $50 million in value, ensuring timely completion, budget adherence and high-quality workmanship.
Proactively identify potential construction issues and conflicts, offering innovative solutions to maintain project momentum and minimize disruptions.
Collaborate closely with clients, architects, engineers and regulatory authorities to ensure projects adhered to design specifications, quality standards and building codes.
Oversee all phases of project execution, including planning, design, procurement, construction and closeout, while maintaining a strong focus on safety and regulatory compliance.
Direct cross-functional teams of up to 50 professionals, including engineers, architects, subcontractors and laborers, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
Develop and monitor project schedules, identifying critical path activities and implementing effective strategies to mitigate risks and delays.
Achieved a consistent track record of delivering projects on or ahead of schedule, resulting in increased client satisfaction and repeat business opportunities.
Implemented best practices in project management, utilizing industry-leading software and technologies to streamline communication, document control and progress tracking.

Step 5

Highlight your education

The education section is the easiest to complete. However, there are still guidelines to follow.

Most roles in construction don’t require a college degree but, if you do have an advanced degree, you don’t need to list your high school education. Instead, start with your highest level of education and work backward, listing your degrees in reverse-chronological order.

Fellowships, apprenticeships and other nontraditional educational experiences can either be listed here or in a special section.

Be sure your entries are all uniform. For each entry, list the name of your degree or diploma, the name of the college or university and its location. If your degree is still in progress, be sure to note that.

Sample construction education entry:

Certificate in Construction Management

UCLA Extension | 2022

John Jacob High School

Los Angeles, CA | 2020

Relevant Coursework:

Construction Project Planning and Scheduling
Building Codes and Regulations
Construction Materials and Methods
Construction Safety and Risk Management

Writing tip

Only list your dates of graduation if you are a very recent graduate. The reason? Letting employers know that you obtained your degree 15 years ago could introduce age bias into the hiring process. Only add it if you earned your degree within the last two years.

Step 6

Add special sections

From professional courses to personal pastimes, you’ve accumulated a wealth of experiences that have shaped you into the person you are today. Adding special sections allows you to show off everything from your licenses and certifications to your personal hobbies and interests.

Here are a few special sections to consider for your construction resume.

Licensure

Some construction roles require a license to perform the job duties. To make your professional license stand out, consider putting it in a special section of your resume.

Here’s how to list licenses on your construction resume:

Licensed Contractor

Contractors State Licensing Board | California | License Number: XXXX | 2022

Successfully completed comprehensive examination covering construction regulations, safety practices, project management and building codes.
Maintain current knowledge of industry standards and regulations to ensure compliance and safe work practices on construction sites.

Certification

Construction is a field in which it’s common to hold certifications in specific areas. Listing these on your resume is important for identifying yourself as an expert in your field. Here are some common certifications for job seekers in the construction industry:

Certified Associate Constructor (CAC)
Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
LEED Green Associate
Project Management Professional (PMP)

Writing tip

When adding items such as certifications and other credentials to your resume, be sure to add the full name of the certification and the acronym to your document. This ensures that an applicant tracking system (ATS) will understand your special training.

Language proficiency: Knowing another language can be a real advantage in the construction industry, especially if you work in a culturally diverse area. List all of the languages you speak and include your level of proficiency, which, according to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages scale (ACTFL), should be listed as novice, intermediate, advanced or superior.

How to list languages on your construction resume:

Fluent in Spanish and English.
Proficient in French.

Volunteer work: Volunteering is a great way to improve your skills and help your community. Consider adding relevant activities like volunteering with Habitat for Humanity or building a community playground or garden to show employers your values.

Construction resume examples by experience level

You want to put your best foot forward in a competitive field like Construction. Choosing the right resume format for your experience level is an important step toward achieving this.

There are three main resume formats:

A functional resume format is the best choice for applicants who are just out of school, who are making a major career change, or who have little to no work experience. This resume format allows you to focus on your construction skills instead of your lack of experience.
A combination resume is excellent for applicants who have a few years of relevant construction experience who still want to highlight the pertinent skills and achievements. This format also works well for applicants who are changing careers.
A chronological resume format is the best choice for construction professionals with many years of experience. The chronological format flaunts an applicant’s work experience and impressive career trajectory and provides ample space to highlight career achievements.

Let’s break down each of these formats.

Functional resume format: Entry-level construction resume example

Create your resume

What makes this a great construction resume example?

Strong career objective.
This resume begins with a resume objective, which describes the applicant’s two years of direct work experience and her career goals clearly and succinctly.
Multiple skills sections.
This resume utilized two distinct skill sections (Summary of Qualifications and Relevant Skills) to highlight the applicant’s strong set of construction skills. In addition to showcasing her technical skills as a builder, she also features critical soft skills.
Versatile template.
Since this applicant is pursuing a construction position, which can exist in a variety of environments, she chose to use a versatile construction resume template that can be used for roles at conservative companies and in more relaxed environments.

Combination resume format: Midcareer construction resume example

Resume mid career example construction superintendent

Create your resume

What makes this a great construction resume example?

Right choice of resume format.
This construction resume uses a combination resume format that includes both a detailed work experience section and sections for skills and qualifications, which is perfect for a midcareer professional.
Showcases career trajectory.
This applicant has five years of direct work experience in construction, which is detailed in a well written work experience section. This section clearly shows his progression and utilizes date and metrics to show the impact of his work.
Use of special sections.
Certifications and licensure are often important for construction roles. This candidate makes it clear that he has pursued additional training with the addition of a dedicated section for certifications.

Chronological resume format: Experienced construction resume example

Create your resume

What makes this a great construction resume example?

Compelling professional summary.
This applicant uses his summary to make a strong first impression. The summary highlights his extensive experience as a construction manager and provides some insight into the construction skills he brings to the table.
Standout work experience section.
This work history section packs a punch by adding data and metrics to every entry. This clearly shows potential employers what this applicant has achieved in past roles.
Use of additional sections.
Here, the addition of a dedicated section for certifications is well-used. It allows recruiters and hiring managers to see at-a-glance that this applicant checks those boxes. This could set him apart from other candidates.

Add a cover letter

Create your cover letter

In the world of construction, like other industries, a well-crafted cover letter can change the course of your job search.

A well-written cover letter allows you to address important details that don’t belong on a resume and allow you to showcase your strong writing skills. Whether you’re looking for your next big job or for your first job ever, learning how to write a cover letter is an invaluable tool.

When you’re ready to write, explore our library of cover letter examples and our cover letter formatting guide to learn how to make your application stand out in the construction field. Then, choose a cover letter template to make it complete.

Or, to save time and ensure error-free writing, try our Cover Letter Generator, which offers text suggestions to help you write a construction cover letter in a matter of minutes.

Now, let’s dive into what lies ahead as you embark on or progress in your construction career.

Facts about the construction industry

Construction brings in big money. In 2022, the Turner Corporation was ranked the leading construction contractor in the United States, pulling in roughly $16 billion, according to Statista. That same year, Bechtel ranked second, earning just under $12 billion. Kiewit Corp. ranked third with earnings of about $1.2 billion.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in construction occupations is projected to grow 4% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations
The BLS also states that, on average, about 723,400 jobs open in construction each year, which is a combination of new jobs and the need to replace workers who permanently leave the field.

Key takeaways for your construction resume

Highlight both hard and soft skills

Construction is an industry that requires a solid mix of hard and soft skills to succeed. Be sure to highlight not only your technical skills, like project management and the ability to read blueprints, but soft skills like communication, too.
List your certifications

Construction professionals get noticed when they list certifications on their resumes. If you have special training, add it to your resume.
Feature quantifiable achievements

Construction is a field where employers expect concrete results. Wherever possible, use numbers to illustrate your successes by using data and metrics in your resume.
Don’t forget the cover letter

A well-written, personalized cover letter can showcase your strong communication skills and add depth to items you’ve touched on in your resume. It’s also a great place to explain gaps in your employment history, which is common for seasonal construction workers.

Commonly asked question about resume writing

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Heather is the Content Strategy Manager for Resume Now and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with more than ten years of experience writing about job search and career topics. She is based in San Francisco.