Job Search and Resume Guide for Trades

Updated September 26, 2025

Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This article is for education only, not professional advice. Always verify details with official sources. Some links, forms, or listings are sponsored or paid, which may affect their placement. We may earn from them. Read our full Disclaimer.

Landing your first role in the trades is about showing proven hands‑on skill, safety, and reliability. Use this guide to build a resume, organize a portfolio, and find jobs and apprenticeships.

Where to Find Jobs

  • School career services and employer days (ask for contacts early)
  • Local contractors, union halls, and trade associations
  • State workforce boards and career centers (WIOA) — see Financial Aid
  • Online boards: apprenticeship.gov for apprenticeships; local job boards for entry roles
  • Word of mouth: instructors, classmates, and suppliers often know who’s hiring

Trades Resume Template (Copyable)

Contact Info Name | City, ST | Phone | Email | LinkedIn (optional)

Objective Entry‑level [Trade] graduate seeking [Apprentice/Helper/Tech] role. Brings OSHA‑10, strong safety habits, and hands‑on training in [key skills].

Skills

  • Safety: OSHA‑10, lockout/tagout basics, PPE
  • Technical: [Meters/Tools], [Processes], [Codes/Standards]
  • Soft skills: punctual, reliable, team communication

Education [School Name] — [Program], [Expected/Completed Month Year] Key courses: [Course], [Course]; Certifications: [EPA 608/AWS/etc.]

Experience (or Projects) [Role], [Employer], [Dates]

  • [Concrete accomplishment with tools/metrics]
  • [Safety or quality outcome]

Projects (if no experience)

  • [Project name]: What you built, tools used, measurement/tolerances, safety steps

Cover Letter Outline (Short)

  1. Hook: Why this trade/company
  2. Skills: 2–3 technical skills they need
  3. Proof: A project or lab outcome (with numbers)
  4. Close: Availability + thanks

Build a Portfolio That “Shows the Work”

  • Photos of projects (before/after, close‑ups of details); blur sensitive info
  • Tool proficiency list with equipment models you’ve used
  • Certifications (OSHA‑10/30, EPA 608, AWS plates, CPR)
  • Lab sign‑offs and instructor references
  • Logbook hours — see Portfolio and Logbook

References That Matter

  • Instructors and lab supervisors (safety and workmanship)
  • Employers from related jobs (reliability, punctuality)
  • Journeypersons you’ve shadowed or assisted

Job Search Rhythm (2 Hours/Week)

  • 20 min: Check school postings and apprenticeship windows
  • 20 min: Call or email 2 local contractors with your one‑page resume
  • 40 min: Apply to 2 roles with tailored resume + short cover
  • 40 min: Portfolio update and follow‑ups from last week

Interview Prep (Quick)

  • Practice describing 3 projects using: situation → task → action → result
  • Bring PPE and arrive 10 minutes early
  • Know key safety steps for the trade; see Safety Essentials

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