Handyman Resume Examples

What Does a Handyman Do?

A handyman takes care of small repairs and maintenance jobs. You’ll see them fix leaky faucets, patch drywall, or assemble furniture.

Most handymen work independently or with small companies. Some jobs need special tools and a good mix of skills.

Demand for handymen stays steady. In 2020, 69% of homeowners started home improvement projects, so there’s always work to be found.

How to Write a Handyman Resume: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Write a Handyman Resume: Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the Best Resume Format for Handyman Jobs

Essential Sections to Include in Your Handyman Resume

Resume Layout and Design Tips

ResumeJudge

A solid handyman resume gets you noticed fast. You need the right format, strong sections, and a clean layout to highlight your experience.

I walk you through each step, from picking the format to organizing your skills. You want every part of your resume to work together and look professional.

Choosing the Best Resume Format for Handyman Jobs

I always start by picking a resume format that matches my work history. For most handyman jobs, the reverse-chronological format works best. Employers want to see my latest experience first.

If you’re new to handyman work or have gaps in your employment, a functional or hybrid format might be better. This lets you highlight specific skills and projects over job titles.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. I check what the job ad asks for and adjust my format. About 80% of hiring managers prefer reverse-chronological resumes, so I usually stick with that.

Essential Sections to Include in Your Handyman Resume

Start with a clear header-your name, phone number, email, and, if you have it, a link to your portfolio. This lets employers reach you fast.

Next, add a summary or objective. I use this to highlight my most relevant skills and years of experience-usually in two or three sentences.

List your work experience in reverse-chronological order. You want to focus on results, like "completed over 200+ home repairs" or "reduced job completion time by 15%."

The skills section matters a lot. Include both technical skills (plumbing, carpentry) and soft skills (communication, reliability). This helps you show your range.

Don't forget education and certifications. List your highest degree, trade school, and any licenses or courses, like OSHA or EPA certifications. This builds trust with employers.

Resume Layout and Design Tips

I always keep my resume clean and readable. White space matters. Set margins to at least one inch and break up text with bulleted lists for easy scanning.

Use consistent fonts-one for headings, one for body text. Avoid more than two. A touch of color is fine, but don’t overdo it. Simple, clear design looks professional.

Section headings should pop out. Make your name and contact info easy to find at the top. If design isn’t your thing, try a basic template-there are tons online.

A well-organized resume grabs attention fast. With layout sorted, you’re already one step closer to landing that handyman gig.

Crafting a Strong Resume Summary or Objective

The first third of your handyman resume is what most recruiters actually read. Nail this section, and you boost your chances right away.

Choosing between a summary or an objective depends on your experience. I’ll break down how both options work and when to use each one.

Handyman Resume Summary Examples

A strong resume summary gives recruiters the highlights up front. I use this section to show my experience, biggest wins, and what sets me apart.

If you’ve got years of hands-on repairs or completed over 100 jobs, mention that. Numbers and specifics boost credibility fast.

You can spotlight one impressive project, like renovating a kitchen or maintaining 40+ rental units. This helps hiring managers picture your value right away.

Stick to three or four lines. Use action verbs like repaired, installed, or managed-it keeps the summary punchy and direct.

When to Use a Resume Objective

If you’re new to the handyman field or switching careers, a resume objective works better than a summary. It lets you highlight motivation and transferable skills.

I use a resume objective when I have less than two years of hands-on experience. This helps me show ambition and clarify what I want from the role.

You want to mention specific goals-like learning new repair techniques or growing with a company. Keep it short, focused, and personal. It sets the tone for the rest of your resume.

Showcasing Your Work Experience

Showcasing Your Work Experience

How to Write the Experience Section for Handyman Roles

Quantifying Your Impact

Action Verbs for Handyman Resumes

Tips for Entry-Level Handyman Professionals

ResumeJudge

When you write your handyman resume, your work experience section really matters. This is where you show what you’ve done, not just where you’ve worked.

It’s not enough to list tasks. You want to show the results you’ve achieved, the skills you use, and what sets you apart.

If you’re new or experienced, there’s a way to make your experience stand out. I’ll walk you through how to do it step by step.

How to Write the Experience Section for Handyman Roles

When I put together a handyman resume, I focus on relevant jobs. Listing every role isn’t helpful-stick to work that shows off your skills and growth.

You want to use reverse chronological order. Start with the most recent role, then work backward. This helps employers see how you’ve built your experience over time.

For each job, I include the company name, location, my job title, and the dates I worked there. This keeps everything clear and organized.

Each bullet point should be specific and start with a strong verb. I avoid just listing tasks-I describe what I actually accomplished in the role.

I always look for keywords in the job ad and echo those in my experience section. This helps your resume get past automated screening systems.

Quantifying Your Impact

Adding numbers to your experience section makes your work stand out. I include details like years in the field, number of projects, and repeat clients.

You can mention things like 10+ years of repairs, 100% on-time project completion, or 30% cost savings for clients. This shows your real value at a glance.

Listing exact figures-like customer satisfaction rates or awards earned-backs up your skills. This helps the hiring manager see your track record, not just your responsibilities.

Action Verbs for Handyman Resumes

Using strong action verbs instantly shows what I achieve on the job. Words like repaired, installed, and troubleshot help me sound capable and reliable.

I always pick verbs that match the task. For example, assembled for furniture, maintained for HVAC systems, or upgraded for electrical work. This makes each bullet specific.

Stick to clear, direct verbs. Avoid buzzwords or fluff. This helps hiring managers quickly see my real skills and experience, especially when they scan dozens of resumes.

Tips for Entry-Level Handyman Professionals

If you’re new to handyman work, don’t stress about lacking years of experience. I focus on skills and projects I’ve done, even if they’re not from paid jobs.

You can highlight volunteer work, school projects, or personal renovations. Listing specific tools you use-like drills or saws-shows you’re hands-on. Managers value that practical know-how.

Tailor your resume to each job by pulling keywords from the ad. This helps you show you’re a good match, even if you’re just starting out.

Wrapping up, always mention any safety training or certifications. Even basic first aid or OSHA awareness can make your application stand out.

Highlighting Your Skills

The skills section on your handyman resume is your chance to show what you can actually do. Employers want to see both your hands-on abilities and your people skills.

You want to focus on the skills that match the job description. Pick specific technical talents and soft skills that help you stand out in a crowd.

Hard skills show you know your tools and tech. Soft skills, like reliability and problem-solving, help you fit into any team or job site. Let's break down what works best.

Top Hard and Soft Skills for Handyman Resumes

If you’re building your handyman resume, focus on hard skills like plumbing, electrical repairs, and carpentry. I always include specifics-like experience with drywall or HVAC systems.

Don’t forget the soft skills that make you reliable. Employers want to see punctuality, problem-solving, and customer communication. These can set you apart just as much as technical know-how.

You want to match your skills to the job ad. If a role lists power tools or specialty painting, mention your years of experience. This helps your resume stand out right away.

Education and Certifications for Handyman Professionals

Education and Certifications for Handyman Professionals

How to List Education on Your Handyman Resume

Top Certifications for Handyman Careers

ResumeJudge

Your education and certifications can set you apart from other handyman candidates. Some jobs only need a high school diploma, but extra training always helps.

If you’ve completed apprenticeships, trade courses, or earned licenses, make sure you list them. Employers often check for up-to-date certifications or state-required licenses.

I always include the basics-school name, certificate, and dates. You don’t need to overdo it, but these sections matter if you want to show your skills.

How to List Education on Your Handyman Resume

I always keep the education section simple-just the essentials. List your high school diploma, any trade school, or relevant coursework. Include graduation years and locations.

If you’ve done apprenticeships or trained under a master craftsperson, add that. This shows you’re hands-on and have real-world skills, not just classroom experience.

You don’t need a fancy degree for most handyman jobs. About 70% of listings just want proof of high school or vocational training. Keep it straightforward and honest.

Top Certifications for Handyman Careers

There are a few key certifications that really stand out for handyman professionals. CMRP and CMRT from SMRP both show strong reliability and maintenance skills.

If you’re into green building, the Certified Green Professional (CGP) from NAHB is a solid choice. OSHA 30-Hour Construction Training is also a big deal and covers essential safety knowledge.

I always recommend checking the Building Performance Institute (BPI) certifications as well. These add credibility, especially if you want to show expertise in home energy and efficiency.

Certifications aren’t required everywhere, but they help you stand out. Take a look at job listings-most mention at least one of these. It’s a great way to wrap up your credentials.

Additional Sections to Boost Your Handyman Resume

You’ve already listed your skills and experience, but there’s more you can add. These extra sections help you stand out and show you’re not just another handyman.

I often see employers pay attention to things like awards, volunteer work, or personal interests. If you’ve got space, these can make a real difference.

Handyman Resume Examples by Experience and Role

Everyone's path in the handyman field looks a little different. Your resume should highlight your specific skills, whether you're just starting out or you have years of experience.

I break down real handyman resume examples for all career stages. You’ll see what works for junior, senior, and even specialized handyman roles. This way, you know exactly what to include.

Junior Handyman Resume Example

Starting out as a junior handyman? Your resume should focus on reliable work ethic, basic repair skills, and eagerness to learn. Emphasize hands-on experience, even if it’s just from part-time jobs.

I recommend you highlight problem-solving skills, punctuality, and any certifications like OSHA or EPA. Listing customer satisfaction rates or jobs completed-like 20+ minor repairs a week-also makes your resume stand out.

You don’t need ten years’ experience. Show that you take direction well and handle routine tasks efficiently. This helps employers see your potential and growth mindset right away.

Senior Handyman Resume Example

If you're a senior handyman, your resume needs to show years of experience-usually 7+ years-plus advanced repair and project management skills. I always highlight my certifications up top.

You want to show leadership on big projects, managing teams of 2-10 workers, and handling budgets over $10,000. List any specialty work, like electrical or plumbing upgrades.

Use numbers to prove your impact. For example, “Completed 150+ work orders each year” or “Reduced maintenance costs by 20%.” This helps your resume stand out fast.

Lead, Supervisor, and Specialized Handyman Resume Samples

If you’re aiming for a lead or supervisor handyman spot, highlight team management, scheduling, and project coordination. Employers look for at least 5-7 years of hands-on experience.

Specialized handyman roles-like HVAC techs or electricians-need certifications front and center. List every license, OSHA card, or manufacturer course you’ve earned. This shows you’re serious and qualified.

Use numbers. I always mention how many people I supervise or how many projects I complete each month. This helps your skills stand out to recruiters looking for leadership potential.

Handyman Resume Examples by Experience Level

Experience matters a lot in handyman work. I see entry-level resumes focus on basic repairs, while pros highlight complex installs or project management.

You want to show the right skills for your level. For example, junior handymen list tools and safety, while experienced folks mention leadership and specialized certifications.

If you’re not sure what to include, look at job listings. About 70% of handyman jobs mention problem-solving and communication, no matter the experience level. This helps you tailor your resume.

Maintenance Worker Resume Examples

If you’re searching for maintenance worker resume examples, you want practical samples that show off technical skills and reliability. I always look for real numbers-like years of experience or equipment handled.

A strong general maintenance worker resume example highlights everything from minor repairs to preventive maintenance. You’ll want to list specific tools, safety certifications, and how often you complete regular inspections.

Focus on what sets you apart. If you manage over 50 work orders a month or reduce downtime by 20%, mention it. This helps your resume stand out to employers.

General Contractor Resume Examples

If you’re after general contractor resume examples, I’ve got a few tips. You want to highlight project leadership, budget management, and client communication. Numbers matter-think “managed 15+ projects annually.”

Show off any special certifications or licenses. Hiring managers check for this stuff, especially with general contractor roles. Include your OSHA training or state licensing right on your resume.

General contractor resumes stand out when you list team sizes managed and safety records. If you cut costs or finished jobs ahead of schedule, mention it. This wraps up the handyman resume section nicely!

Handyman Salary Information by State

Curious about what handymen earn across the country? I get it-pay can vary a lot depending on where you work.

I break down average salaries by state using recent numbers. This way, you can see what to expect in your area.

Key Takeaways for Writing a Handyman Resume

A solid handyman resume shows off your technical skills and people skills. You want every section to highlight the value you bring to each job.

Focus on experience that matches the job description. Tailor your resume for every application, especially if you want to stand out to hiring managers and applicant tracking systems.

Don’t forget to use your summary to put your best experience front and center. Personal touches and real results make your resume memorable.