Is Your Resume Working for You?

If you’ve got experience in Building Automation Systems (BAS) but you’re not getting interviews, your resume could be holding you back. Even skilled Techs and Programmers get overlooked when their resume doesn’t tell the right story.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the most common BAS resume mistakes, and how to fix them so hiring managers actually take notice.

✅ 1. Choose Specifics Over Generalities

Generic lines like: "Controls experience" or "Worked on BAS systems" don't give hiring managers what they need.

Instead, say something like:

"Programmed and commissioned Niagara N4 systems for a 4-building school campus. Integrated AHUs, VAVs, and chiller plant."

The specifics are where you can really shine. Include the BAS platforms you've worked with (Niagara, Tridium, Alerton, Johnson Controls, etc.), tools like Workbench, Envision, and AutoCAD, and functional skills (point-to-point checkout, graphics, logic blocks).

❌ 2. Don’t use a Fancy Format

You want your SKILLS to stand out, not your resume formatting. Over-stylized designs are more likely to get caught in ATS systems and they are usually more difficult for hiring managers to find the information they are looking for. It might sound boring, but a simple, traditional format will get you the best results.

Something like this is perfect:

Building Automation Company 2021 - 2025

Controls Technician

• Bullet points describing what you did

Also, be sure to list your roles in reverse chronological order; functional resumes detract and hide your best skills. Knowing the context in which you performed your role is paramount, so putting bullet points under each company is the way to go!

✅ 3. Tailor Your Resume to the Role

Every controls job isn’t the same, and your resume shouldn’t be either. Highlight what you have done that corresponds to the role you are applying for. Peruse the posting and if at any point you think, "Hey I've done that!" add a bullet point or two including it.

Pro Tip: Build in a couple of blank bullet point lines in your resume, specifically for this purpose so you don't have to re-work your resume every time. A skills section at the top can also be helpful for this and can help hiring mangers scan resumes quickly.

Try to mirror the language while still being true of course!

❌ 4. Don’t Ignore Employment Gaps or Short Stints

If you’ve had short jobs or time off, just explain it briefly. That’s better than leaving it blank.

Examples:

For a short stint: “6-month contract role supporting BAS upgrades at VA hospital.”

For an employment gap: “2023: Took 6-month sabbatical for family reasons; now actively pursuing BAS technician roles.”

One line of context builds trust.

✅ 5. Show Career Progression

Hiring managers love to see growth. Don't be afraid to go beyond one page if you need to - how you got to where you are is significant. Also, if you've been with one company for a while, don't sell yourself short by only listing your ending title. Show the promotions, and even if your path isn't linear, include it as well - you never know when that off the wall experience could be a selling point for the current role. Tell the whole story!

Don't forget to list training, certifications, and awards earned along the way too.

Ready for a Quick Review?

If you’re not sure whether your resume is helping or hurting your job search, I can help. I review BAS resumes every week and know which ones get the most attention. Let me know if you need a second set of eyes and I'll review and get you feedback.

Just DM me or comment “Resume” and I’ll take a look.

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