Writing a technical CV: tips for mechanics and installers
In technical trades, what counts is what you can do and which certificates you hold. Here's how to put certificates, experience and machines clearly on one CV, without complicated formatting.
As a mechanic, installer, electrician or welder, an employer mainly looks at three things on your CV: what you can do, which diplomas and certificates you have and what you have experience with. A nice story helps little if the papers are missing. Below are seven parts for a technical CV that makes clear straight away what you bring.
1. Start with a short profile: trade, years and speciality
Two sentences are enough. For example: 'Electrician with eight years of experience in installations for housing and commercial buildings, specialised in faults and maintenance.' That way the reader knows right away who you are and what you're good at.
2. Put your certificates up front, with dates
Certificates such as VCA, first aid, NEN 3140, a welding diploma or a forklift certificate are often a hard requirement. Show them clearly on your CV, with who issued the certificate and when you obtained it. If a certificate has a limited validity, like VCA, add the expiry date too. The CVontwerper builder has a separate certificates section for this.
3. Describe what you did, not just where
Each job should have a few bullets about the work itself: which installations or machines, how big the projects were, what your responsibility was and what it delivered. For example: 'Independently resolved faults at homes and small businesses, with fewer recurring complaints thanks to structural maintenance.' Only use numbers you can actually back up.
4. Name the systems and machines you master
Employers want to know what you can work with. Think of PLC controls, CNC machines, measuring equipment or particular installation systems. Put them in a short list under your skills, so a recruiter can see in a few seconds whether you fit the job.
5. Driving licence, availability and work area
In technical trades this isn't a side note. State your driving licence, whether you have your own car, whether you're willing to work shifts or on call and how far you're willing to travel. That saves back-and-forth emails and shows you think practically.
6. Keep the formatting simple and pick a fitting template
A technical CV doesn't have to be pretty, but it does have to be clear. Our Vakman template is personal and hands-on, with certificates prominently displayed, for mechanics, installers, electricians and plumbers. The Technisch template is sleek and structured, with certificates in a clear grid, for automotive, production and maintenance among others. Applying through an online system? Then pick a template with the 'ATS-safe' badge.
7. Don't forget your education and courses, but keep them short
Put your vocational education with level and field on your CV, and mention training that's relevant to the role. Old courses that have nothing to do with the work can be left out. That keeps your CV short and everything that counts is in there.
Clarity over decoration
With a technical CV the employer wants to see within a minute whether you have the papers and the experience. Build your CV for free at CVontwerper, with a certificates section made for exactly that, and download it for a one-time €2. No account, no subscription.
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