sample resume handyman skills

Top 12 Handyman Skills to Put on Your Resume

In today’s competitive job market, a well-crafted resume is crucial for standing out, especially for handymen seeking new opportunities. Highlighting the top handyman skills on your resume can showcase your versatility and proficiency, making you an ideal candidate for potential employers.

Handyman Skills

• Landscaping
• Locksmithing

1. Carpentry

Carpentry, in the context of a handyman, involves the skillful cutting, shaping, and installation of building materials during the repair, construction, or maintenance of buildings, furniture, and other structures, primarily using wood.

Why It's Important

Carpentry is essential for a handyman as it equips them with the skills to construct, repair, and install building frameworks and structures, enabling them to effectively address a wide range of home and office maintenance needs.

How to Improve Carpentry Skills

Improving carpentry skills as a handyman involves a blend of practice, learning, and tool mastery. Here are concise steps to enhance your carpentry skills:

Practice Regularly : The more you work with wood, the better you become. Regularly engage in various projects to improve your skill set.

Learn from Experts : Utilize online platforms like YouTube for tutorials or take courses from sites like Udemy or Coursera that offer carpentry classes.

Understand Your Tools : Familiarize yourself with all your tools, their uses, and maintenance. Websites like Fine Woodworking offer great insights into tools and techniques.

Read Carpentry Books : Invest in books that cover carpentry basics as well as advanced techniques. Publishers like Taunton Press have a wide range of woodworking books.

Join a Community : Participate in forums such as Reddit’s r/woodworking to share experiences, get advice, and see what others are doing.

Safety First : Always prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear and following safety protocols. Familiarize yourself with safety tips from OSHA.

Measure Twice, Cut Once : Precision is key in carpentry. Ensure accuracy in your measurements to avoid waste and ensure high-quality work.

By consistently applying these strategies, your carpentry skills will steadily improve, enhancing your capability as a handyman.

How to Display Carpentry Skills on Your Resume

2. Plumbing

Plumbing involves the installation, repair, and maintenance of pipes, fixtures, and systems for water supply, heating, and sanitation in a building.

Plumbing is essential for ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of water for drinking, heating, washing, and waste removal, thereby maintaining hygiene and comfort in homes and buildings.

How to Improve Plumbing Skills

Improving plumbing involves a combination of proactive maintenance, effective repair techniques, and enhancing system efficiency. Here are short and concise tips for a handyman:

Preventive Maintenance : Regularly check for leaks, corrosion, and signs of wear. Clean drains and gutters to prevent blockages. Family Handyman offers insights on what can go wrong and how to prevent it.

Efficient Fixtures : Install water-saving devices like low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets to enhance efficiency. The EPA’s WaterSense program provides guidelines on selecting efficient products.

Quality Materials : Use high-quality, durable materials for repairs and replacements to ensure longevity. This Old House provides tips on repair and the types of materials to use.

Proper Tools : Invest in the right tools for plumbing tasks, including pipe wrenches, plunger, pipe cutter, and Teflon tape. A comprehensive tool list is available at The Spruce .

Knowledge Upgradation : Stay updated with the latest plumbing techniques and codes by reading books, attending workshops, or online courses. Websites like PlumbingSupply.com provide valuable resources and tips.

Professional Help : For complex issues, don’t hesitate to consult or hire a professional plumber. This ensures that the problem is correctly diagnosed and resolved, preventing further damage.

By following these tips, a handyman can significantly improve plumbing efficiency, prevent potential problems, and ensure the system’s reliability and durability.

How to Display Plumbing Skills on Your Resume

3. Electrical

Electrical refers to the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems and components, such as wiring, outlets, switches, and fixtures, to ensure safe and efficient power distribution and usage in buildings.

Electrical knowledge is crucial for a handyman to safely perform installations and repairs, ensuring functionality and preventing hazards in homes and buildings.

How to Improve Electrical Skills

Improving your electrical skills as a handyman involves learning basic electrical principles, safety protocols, and hands-on practice. Focus on understanding how electricity works, recognizing common electrical components, and mastering the use of essential tools. Here's a concise guide to get started:

Learn the Basics : Understand voltage, current, and resistance. The All About Circuits website offers a straightforward introduction.

Safety First : Prioritize learning about electrical safety. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) provides crucial safety tips for handymen.

Tool Mastery : Get familiar with essential tools like multimeters, wire strippers, and voltage testers. The Home Depot offers a guide on essential electrical tools.

Practice Wiring : Start with simple projects, like wiring a plug or switching a light fitting. Instructables provides a range of DIY electrical projects for practice.

Understand Codes and Regulations : Know your local electrical codes and regulations to ensure compliance in all projects. The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a standard in the United States.

Continuous Learning : The field of electrical work is always evolving. Consider taking online courses from platforms like Coursera or Udemy to stay updated.

Improving your electrical skills requires a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and a strong commitment to safety. By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can enhance your capabilities as a handyman in the electrical field.

How to Display Electrical Skills on Your Resume

Drywall is a construction material consisting of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper, used for creating walls and ceilings in buildings. It is lightweight, easy to install, and can be cut to size, making it a popular choice for interior finishing.

Drywall is crucial for a handyman as it serves as a quick, cost-effective method to create smooth, paintable interior walls and ceilings, enabling efficient room divisions and repairs.

How to Improve Drywall Skills

Improving drywall involves several key steps aimed at ensuring durability, appearance, and overall quality. Here's a concise guide:

Proper Installation : Ensure studs are properly aligned and secure. Use the right type of drywall screws at the correct spacing. Drywall Installation Guide

Seamless Taping and Mudding : Apply joint compound (mud) and tape correctly to avoid cracks and ensure smooth seams. Taping and Mudding Tips

Sanding for Smoothness : After the mud dries, sand the surface to a fine finish, minimizing dust. Sanding Techniques

Quality Priming and Painting : Use a high-quality primer suited for drywall before painting to ensure even color and reduce the number of paint coats needed. Priming and Painting Drywall

Repairing Holes and Cracks : Use the appropriate patching materials for small and large repairs to maintain the integrity of the wall. Drywall Repair Guide

Each step is crucial in enhancing the durability, appearance, and longevity of drywall, turning a basic installation into a professional-quality finish.

How to Display Drywall Skills on Your Resume

5. Painting

Painting, in the context of handyman services, involves the application of paint or coating to surfaces (such as walls, doors, and trim) for protection, maintenance, and aesthetic improvement.

Painting is important for a handyman as it protects surfaces from wear and damage, enhances aesthetic appeal, and increases property value.

How to Improve Painting Skills

Improving your painting skills as a handyman involves practice, understanding the basics, and learning advanced techniques. Here are concise steps and resources to help you enhance your painting abilities:

Understand the Basics : Learn about different types of paint, brushes, and surfaces. This Old House offers insights on selecting the right materials.

Proper Preparation : Surface preparation is key. Clean and repair surfaces before painting. Family Handyman provides a guide on how to properly prepare for painting.

Master Techniques : Practice different brush and roller techniques to avoid streaks and ensure even coverage. Bob Vila offers tips on technique.

Learn from Experts : Watch tutorial videos from experienced painters. YouTube channels like Paint Life TV share professional painting tips and tricks.

Practice : The more you paint, the better you'll get. Start with small projects and gradually take on bigger ones as your confidence grows.

Stay Updated : Painting products and techniques evolve. Regularly check websites like Painting & Decorating Contractors of America for the latest in painting technology and methods.

By following these steps and utilizing these resources, you can significantly improve your painting skills as a handyman.

How to Display Painting Skills on Your Resume

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, encompassing systems that regulate indoor temperature, airflow, and comfort.

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is crucial for maintaining indoor comfort, ensuring air quality, and controlling humidity levels, directly impacting the health, safety, and well-being of occupants. For a handyman, understanding HVAC systems is essential for performing installations, repairs, and maintenance effectively, ensuring these systems operate efficiently and reliably.

How to Improve HVAC Skills

Improving HVAC efficiency can lead to better performance and cost savings. Here are concise steps a handyman can take:

Regular Maintenance : Schedule regular maintenance to ensure the system runs efficiently. This includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting all components. EnergyStar Maintenance Tips

Seal and Insulate Ducts : Leaky ducts can significantly reduce system efficiency. Use mastic sealant or metal tape to seal all joints and seams, then insulate ducts to prevent heat loss. Duct Sealing Tips

Install a Programmable Thermostat : This allows for better control over heating and cooling, reducing energy use when not needed. Thermostat Installation

Upgrade Insulation : Improving insulation in walls, attics, and floors can help maintain indoor temperatures, reducing the HVAC system's workload. Insulation Guide

Ensure Proper Airflow : Ensure that vents are not blocked by furniture or other items. Clean the vents regularly to maintain good airflow. HVAC Airflow Tips

Upgrade Equipment : If the system is old and inefficient, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified products. Energy Star HVAC

Implementing these strategies can enhance HVAC performance, extend the system's lifespan, and lead to noticeable savings on energy bills.

How to Display HVAC Skills on Your Resume

Roofing refers to the construction, repair, or replacement of the protective covering on a building's top, ensuring it is watertight and shields the interior from weather elements. For a handyman, it typically involves tasks like fixing leaks, replacing shingles, and ensuring proper gutter function.

Roofing is crucial as it provides protection from weather elements, ensures structural integrity, and helps maintain indoor comfort and energy efficiency. For a handyman, it's key for preventing water damage and preserving property value.

How to Improve Roofing Skills

Improving your roofing involves several key steps to ensure durability, efficiency, and safety. Here's a concise guide tailored for a handyman:

Inspection : Regularly inspect your roof for signs of damage, such as cracked shingles or leaks. Early detection can prevent costly repairs.

Maintenance : Keep your roof clean from debris, moss, and algae. Trim overhanging branches to reduce shade and moisture, which can deteriorate roofing materials.

Ventilation : Ensure your attic is well-ventilated to prevent heat and moisture buildup that can weaken your roof structure. Energy Star provides guidelines on proper roof and attic ventilation.

Quality Materials : When repairing or replacing, choose high-quality roofing materials suitable for your climate. Durability and longevity should be key considerations. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) offers insights into selecting the right asphalt shingles.

Professional Help : For significant repairs or replacement, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor with proven expertise. DIY can save money, but complex or high-risk tasks require specialized skills. Check out the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) for resources and to find qualified contractors.

Up-to-Date Techniques : Stay informed about the latest roofing technologies and installation techniques. Online platforms like This Old House offer tutorials and tips for both beginners and experienced handymen.

By following these steps and leveraging the resources provided, you can significantly improve the condition and lifespan of your roofing.

How to Display Roofing Skills on Your Resume

8. Flooring

Flooring refers to the material or finish applied on the floor surface in a building for durability, aesthetics, and comfort. It includes installing, repairing, or replacing various types of floor materials such as tiles, hardwood, laminate, carpet, or vinyl.

Flooring is crucial because it ensures a safe, durable surface for daily activities, enhances the aesthetic appeal and comfort of a space, and contributes to the overall structural integrity of a property. For a handyman, it represents an opportunity to improve functionality and increase property value through skilled installation and maintenance.

How to Improve Flooring Skills

Improving flooring involves a few key steps depending on the type of floor. Here's a concise guide:

Assessment : Identify the type of flooring and its condition. Check for damages like cracks, scratches, or warping.

Cleaning : Thoroughly clean the floor using techniques suitable for the flooring type. This Old House provides great tips on cleaning various floor types.

Repair : For wooden floors, sand down scratches or replace damaged boards. Fill cracks in tiles or concrete floors. Family Handyman has excellent repair tutorials.

Refinishing : Apply a new finish to wooden floors or use sealants for tiles and concrete floors to give them a fresh look. DIY Network offers a detailed refinishing guide.

Upgrade : Consider upgrading to more durable materials if the existing flooring is extensively damaged or outdated. Flooring Inc discusses modern flooring trends and options.

Maintenance : Regular maintenance based on the flooring type can prolong its life. Use appropriate cleaners and protectors, and address spills and damages promptly.

Remember, the right tools and materials are crucial for any flooring improvement project. Always refer to manufacturer guidelines for specific flooring care instructions.

How to Display Flooring Skills on Your Resume

Tiling refers to the process of installing tiles (pieces of hard-wearing material such as ceramic, stone, or glass) on surfaces, typically floors or walls, for protection or decorative purposes. This involves preparing the surface, laying out the tiles in a desired pattern, cutting tiles to fit, applying adhesive, setting the tiles, and applying grout to seal the joints.

Tiling is important for a handyman because it enhances aesthetic appeal, ensures durability and water resistance for surfaces, and increases property value, covering tasks from repairs to complete installations in various settings.

How to Improve Tiling Skills

To improve tiling as a handyman, consider these concise tips:

Plan and Measure : Accurate measurements and planning are crucial. Use a tile calculator to estimate the number of tiles needed, avoiding waste and ensuring you have enough tiles, including extras for cutting and waste.

Choose the Right Tools : Quality tools make a big difference. Invest in a good tile cutter , notched trowels, and a tile leveling system to ensure even spacing and level tiles.

Surface Preparation : Ensure the surface is clean, level, and dry. Use a self-leveling compound for uneven floors.

Adhesive Application : Apply tile adhesive with a notched trowel at a 45-degree angle for consistent coverage. Learn about different adhesives and their applications here.

Tile Placement : Start from the center and work your way out. Use tile spacers for uniform gaps. Press tiles firmly into the adhesive.

Grouting : After the adhesive sets, apply grout using a rubber float. Remove excess grout with a damp sponge. For grouting techniques, visit Family Handyman’s guide.

Sealing : Seal the grout and, if necessary, the tiles, to protect against moisture and stains. Choose an appropriate sealer based on your tile type.

Continuous Learning : Stay updated with the latest techniques and products by following reputable sources like Fine Homebuilding and Tile Council of North America .

Improving your tiling skills requires practice, patience, and staying informed about the latest materials and methods in the industry.

How to Display Tiling Skills on Your Resume

10. Welding

Welding is a process used by handymen to join two pieces of metal together by melting the parts with heat and then allowing them to cool, resulting in a strong, permanent bond.

Welding is crucial for a handyman as it enables the durable joining of metal parts for repairs, constructions, and fabrications, expanding the range of projects they can undertake and offering strong, long-lasting solutions.

How to Improve Welding Skills

Improving your welding skills as a handyman involves practice, knowledge of materials, and understanding welding techniques. Here are concise tips:

Understand the Basics : Learn about different welding processes ( MIG , TIG, and Stick) to select the right one for your project.

Safety First : Always wear appropriate protective gear. Safety Guidelines by OSHA cover essential precautions.

Material Knowledge : Understand the materials you are working with. Different metals require different techniques and settings. The American Welding Society offers resources on material properties and welding methods.

Proper Equipment : Use a reliable welding machine and maintain it well. Ensure you have the right welding accessories for your projects.

Practice : Practice on scrap metal to improve your technique before starting on your actual project. Focus on controlling the weld pool and maintaining a steady hand.

Join a Community : Get involved in online forums or local workshops where you can share tips and get advice from more experienced welders. WeldingWeb is a great online community.

Continual Learning : Stay updated with new techniques and materials by subscribing to welding magazines or online resources like Welding Digest .

Inspect Your Work : Learn to inspect your welds to identify areas for improvement. Understanding common welding defects is essential for self-assessment.

Remember, mastering welding takes time and patience. Continually seek knowledge and practice regularly to enhance your skills.

How to Display Welding Skills on Your Resume

11. Landscaping

Landscaping involves modifying and maintaining the visible features of an outdoor area to enhance its appearance and functionality, which can include tasks like planting, lawn care, and installing structures like fences and decks, suitable for a handyman skilled in outdoor projects.

Landscaping is important as it enhances curb appeal, increases property value, and creates a welcoming environment. For a handyman, it presents opportunities for maintenance, installations, and renovations, allowing for a showcase of diverse skills and services to clients.

How to Improve Landscaping Skills

Improving landscaping can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of outdoor spaces. Here are concise tips for handymen looking to improve landscaping:

Plan Your Landscape : Assess the area and plan your landscape design considering the local climate, soil type, and sunlight exposure. Refer to Better Homes & Gardens for basic design principles.

Soil Improvement : Amend the soil with organic matter like compost to improve fertility and drainage. Learn more about soil improvement from the Royal Horticultural Society .

Plant Selection : Choose native plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil. This reduces maintenance and supports local biodiversity. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center offers a great plant selection guide.

Mulching : Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enhance soil quality. The University of California’s guide on mulching provides useful insights.

Efficient Watering : Install drip irrigation systems for efficient watering. This Old House provides a step-by-step guide on setting up in-ground sprinklers.

Regular Maintenance : Perform regular maintenance such as pruning, weeding, and lawn mowing to keep the landscape tidy and healthy. Gardeners' World has practical advice on garden maintenance.

Hardscaping : Incorporate hardscape elements like paths, patios, and retaining walls to add structure and functionality. Learn about hardscaping basics at Landscaping Network.

Lighting : Install outdoor lighting to enhance safety and highlight key landscape features. Lowe’s offers a tutorial on installing landscape lighting.

By following these tips and utilizing the resources provided, handymen can successfully improve landscaping, increasing property value and enjoyment of outdoor spaces.

How to Display Landscaping Skills on Your Resume

12. Locksmithing

Locksmithing is the profession that involves the installation, repair, and manipulation of locks and security systems, including key cutting and lock picking, typically performed by a skilled technician known as a locksmith. For a handyman, it may involve basic tasks like changing locks, duplicating keys, or installing simple security devices.

Locksmithing is important for a handyman as it equips them with the specialized skills to install, repair, and maintain locks and security systems, ensuring the safety and security of homes and businesses.

How to Improve Locksmithing Skills

Improving locksmithing skills as a handyman involves continuous learning and practice. Here are concise steps to enhance your locksmithing abilities:

• Educate Yourself : Start with online courses and tutorials. Websites like Coursera and YouTube offer a variety of instructional videos and classes.
• Get Certified : Consider obtaining certification from reputable organizations like Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) to validate your skills and knowledge.
• Practice Regularly : Purchase practice locks and a lock picking set. Practice disassembling and reassembling locks to understand their mechanisms.
• Stay Updated : Lock technology evolves, so subscribe to industry magazines like Locksmith Ledger and join forums like Lockpicking101 to stay informed on the latest tools and techniques.
• Network : Join local or online locksmithing communities to exchange knowledge and experiences with peers. Networking can provide valuable insights and support.

By following these steps and committing to ongoing learning and practice, you can significantly improve your locksmithing skills as a handyman.

How to Display Locksmithing Skills on Your Resume

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Handyman resume examples & templates

Not everyone is a do-it-yourselfer. Quite often, property owners need assistance with maintenance and improvement projects. Your expertise hits the nail on the head. But there’s one area where you may not be a DIYer and that’s in creating a powerful handyman resume that will get you the job you desire.

When you start a job, you don’t begin sawing away. You first get an overview of the project and then decide how to go about it. Resume.io is a powerful resource for any job seeker, as we provide resume guides and resume examples for 300+ professions, backed up by an easy-to-use resume builder.

This guide, along with the corresponding handyman resume example will cover the following topics:

What does a handyman do?

• How to write a handyman resume (tips and tricks)
• The best format for a handyman resume
• Advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
• Professional resume layout and design hints.

During the pandemic, many homeowners looked around and decided their space needed improving. In fact, 69% of homeowners said they started a project around the house in June of 2020, according to a survey by the Farnsworth Group and the Home Improvement Research Institute . But that doesn’t mean handymen have been replaced. 

Generally, handymen do small general maintenance and repair jobs that don’t require a licensed plumber, electrician or other tradesperson. Many own their own businesses, but they may also work for another small company or franchise. Some of the repair and building work they perform are:

• Decks and fences
• Gutter cleaning

Because of the diversity of projects, handymen need many specialized tools in their toolboxes. They may be called upon to fix any number of homeowner woes.

The job outlook for handymen

The construction business as a whole took a hit during COVID, however, it is poised to bounce back. Many homeowners did not want anyone in their homes and instead completed their own DIY and repair work.

Revenue for handyman franchises cratered in 2020, but industry researcher IBISWorld predicts it will rebound throughout 2021.

Handymen earn a median of $24 an hour. The median hourly wage for entry-level workers is down 38% to $14.93, but experience counts in this field and seasoned handymen may earn up to $25.76 an hour, according to Payscale .

Searching for more ideas and inspiration? Have a look at our handyman related resume examples from the maintenance & repair category, listed here below:

• Maintenance Technician resume sample
• Plumber resume sample
• Electrician resume sample
• Carpenter resume sample
• Mechanic resume sample
• Cement Mason resume sample
• Housekeeping resume sample
• Maintenance Worker resume sample
• Janitor resume sample
• Painter resume sample

How to write a handyman resume

Before you get started on a job, you clear your work space and lay out your tools. The equivalent of that here is understanding what elements compose your handyman resume. Every resume sample should contain:

• The resume header
• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

When you put them all together, you will have an impressive overview of your professional life. But just as in any handyman project, you want to maintain consistency so that each part contributes to and does not clash with the whole. That means keeping your style, tone and message unified.

If you are applying at a handyman company, you should learn everything you can about the business and the services it provides so that you can target your response. If you have your own business, consider what types of jobs are in high demand and focus on those in your details. Decide whether you want to take on all handyman work or if you prefer to specialize in certain skills. Then, slant your resume sample accordingly.

A solidly built resume should stick to the following blueprint:

• Look at each application individually and alter your resume to fit.
• Pay attention to the visual impression you make by using an expert-designed resume layout that stands out without being flashy.
• Match keywords and phrases within job descriptions to maximize your chances with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Get smart about the ATS

Applicant tracking systems are human resource tools designed to scan and sort through the dozens of applications companies receive. There is no tried and true way to overcome these algorithms, however, you can give yourself a better chance by customizing your handyman resume.

Analyze the job listing you’re targeting. If drywall is a company focus, mention drywall in your resume (assuming you have drywall experience). Match any skills and attributes your future employer seeks if you can. Keep your job description natural -- don’t force any keywords or phrases in or your resume will sound stilted.

Taking the time to complete this step can make all the difference in getting that interview.

Choosing the best resume format for a handyman resume

For the most part, resume samples follow a standard format: reverse chronological order. You will find that most of our resume examples do as well. This means that your employment history section will be organized with your current or most recent position first. That is because hiring managers want to know what skills you have acquired along the way and what you are doing now.

Under some circumstances, you may want to use a hybrid or functional format. For instance, if you want to highlight your projects instead of your work history or if you are an independent worker or sole proprietor. In those cases, who you worked for is less important than the projects you completed.

Unless those circumstances fit, stick with reverse chronological order.

Resume summary example: build on your experience

As a handyman, you will be entering your clients’ homes so you want people to feel comfortable with you. Personality counts. Your handyman resume summary, or profile, gives you 3-5 lines at the top of the page to add a little spark to what otherwise is a fairly dry document.

Within your summary section you should:

• Shine a light on the project you are proudest of.
• Explain why you are the best person for the job.
• Give an example of your work style.

Strong verb s form the framework of your sentences. Employ concrete words like assessed, designed, solved and built instead of filler words like did or worked. Descriptive language adds the flourishes that allow hiring managers to get a sense of who you are and what you will bring to the job. Don’t be afraid to showcase your talents. This is not the place for modesty.

You do need to keep it concise, so you may leave out “I am” or “I have done” to save yourself space for meatier words.

You can find a sales resume example summary below.

• Hardworking and experienced Handyman able to perform a variety of maintenance duties with skill.
• Adept in handling preventative maintenance, basic repairs, cosmetic upkeep, and simple appliance installations.
• Ability to handle power tools and some maintenance related machinery.
• Friendly, outgoing, and committed to providing top-notch services, with the main goal of superior customer service in mind.

Employment history CV sample: construct your career

If you are using reverse chronological order, the employment history section of your CV is straightforward. Build from the top down to give hiring managers a complete picture of how you have progressed as a handyman.

Think in terms of problems you have solved, money you have saved clients or projects you completed that highlight your craftsmanship to add to your CV.

Make your bullet points meaningful

Use the STAR method for creating bullet points that go beyond a recitation of job duties.

• Talk about the situation you encountered
• Describe the task you had to complete
• Explain the action you took
• Highlight your results

Include as many details as you can and data wherever relevant.

See handyman resume example content below.

• Handled basic repairs, maintained the HVAC system, and performed preventative maintenance and cleaning.
• Pressure-washed roof, windows, and doors.
• Performed routine landscaping of the grounds.
• Completed tasks per management’s request in a timely manner.
• Performed thorough inspections and scheduled any repairs necessary.
• Worked well with building professionals and assisted others with a happy and helpful attitude.

Resume skills example: wire for success

The skills section of your handyman resume sample is designed to give hiring managers a quick way to see what you have to offer, so give them your best. That means considering all your attributes and then narrowing the field to target the position and show off talents that differentiate you from other applicants.

What skills does a handyman need? Some of that depends on the job itself. That means that you really need to customize depending on each job listing (remember the ATS), but it also means that you need to decide what skills YOU think are most important.

All handymen need soft skills , or the qualities that make a person a desirable worker. Those include communication, time management and organization. Definitely include your superior wiring ability, but don’t neglect your people skills!

Here's the skills section from our adaptable handyman resume example.

• Good Physical Stamina
• Repairs and Parts Replacement
• Knowledge of Cleaning Chemicals and Supplies
• Reliable and Punctual
• Self Starter

Handyman resume education example

On-the-job training is the standard for a handyman, but some workers also have additional education or training courses under their belts.

In your education section, you simply list your high school diploma and any other education or training you have. If you are certified through the Association of Certified Handyman Professionals or another organization or have completed classes in a specialized field, list those here.

You may also consider adding any apprenticeships you have done or master craftspeople you have trained under.

Do you need a license?

Requirements differ from state to state. Some states define when you need a license on the cost of the job. Others don’t require one at all. If you work in a state that requires a license, list it on your resume. 

Jobber Academy has a complete list of each state and its regulations.

See the handyman resume example content below for an idea of how to format your education.

1997-2001 Tampa High School, High School Diploma Tampa, FL

Resume layout and design: impress from the start

You may do a great job, but if you leave a mess or don’t consider the design of the project, the excellent plumbing job may not be appreciated. Layout and design counts. Here are some tips for creating a visually pleasing resume that stands out without being overly fussy.

• Create white space. Avoid big blocks of type, use bulleted lists and set the margins at one inch.
• Give textual cues with section headings and contact information that stand out.
• Be consistent! Use only two fonts: one for headings and one for text.
• A little color goes a long way, so be conservative with it.

If graphic design software isn't within your multitude of handyman skills, consider using a professionally-designed resume template to help get the job done. Even a simple design can go a long way in boosting your credibility and making a great first impression.

Key takeaways for a handyman resume

• Approach your resume like you would any other job and stick with the plan.
• Decide whether you want to represent yourself as a generalist or a specialist.
• Take a targeted approach to each job application and customize for the ATS.
• Use Resume.io’s online resume builder to smooth the rough edges of your job search.

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5 Handyman Resume Examples For The Job in 2024

Handyman Resume

• Handyman Resumes by Experience
• Handyman Resumes by Role
• Write Your Handyman Resume

When home or company repairs are needed, you’re there to lend a helping hand. Troubleshooting is conducted, equipment is maintained, and appliances are fixed when you’re on the job.

Are your top job skills and work experiences constructed and strategically placed on your resume?

You don’t have to be an expert at repairs and creating an effective resume. We’re here to help with our handyman resume examples to give you a template that makes displaying the right qualifications for each job seem easy.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Make sure you’re doing two things hand-in-hand here: listing all relevant skills (use the job description as a reference to match your skills) and being memorable with your accomplishments, for example receiving a 94% client satisfaction rate via feedback forms.

Handyman Assistant Resume

• Tools like tape measures and SafetyCulture iAuditor let you collaborate with others and complete projects on time. Don’t forget to include how you’ve used these skills in the past in a team-oriented setting.

Maintenance Handyman Resume

• Remember to keep the work experience bullet points of your maintenance handyman resume as varied as possible to show employers your versatility. Try including metrics to show the kind of impact your work created like “Performed routine checks which extended the lifespan of HVAC systems by 2 years.”

Self Employed Handyman Resume

• Highlighting how you’ve saved clients from potential water damage repairs or even boosting repair requests and word-of-mouth referrals are both examples of unique strengths to add to your self employed handyman resume.

Handyman Construction Resume

• Here you’ve got to pay attention to key details such as using action words and specifically highlighting your most proud work experience that will help recruiters remember you.

Related resume examples

• Electrician
• Maintenance Worker

Tailor Your Handyman Resume to Each Job’s Description

When you get hired for a project, you want to know each customer’s property and needs to provide the right solutions. You’ll also want to take a similar tailored approach to your resume. 

The job description will be your blueprint for success here. Look for skills each company emphasizes so you can stand out to every hiring manager who reviews your resume, whether they need plumbing repairs or commercial equipment maintenance.

Need some ideas?

15 popular handyman skills

• Claw Hammer
• Power Drills
• Customer Service
• Circular Saw
• Stud Finder
• Service Fusion
• Salesforce Field Service

Your handyman work experience bullet points

When someone hires a handyman, they want to get results on whatever they need to be repaired, built, or improved. That means your work experience bullet points must be optimized to show what you can achieve. 

Listing actionable achievements from previous work experience will do the trick here. That means using action words like “fixed” and “performed” while including metrics like turnaround times that will help showcase your impact. 

Here are some of the top metrics to put on your handyman resume.

• Installation times: Your customers will want to get work done quickly so they can get back to business, so fast installation times will often grab attention. 
• Cost savings: Can you complete jobs below budget or reduce waste? Any cost savings you can showcase will be a game changer for clients. 
• Repair requests: If a company wants you to help promote services, generating an increase in new repair requests can make you stand out. 
• Approval ratings: When your work passes inspection immediately, it saves companies a lot of time and hassle, making this a great number to include. 

See what we mean?

• Removed 2,546 outdated nails and fasteners from renovation sites using a claw hammer, improving project prep efficiency by 31.9%.
• Leveraged cordless drill/drivers for framing and drywall installation for 4 large-scale renovation projects, resulting in a 14% reduction in project completion time.
• Performed framing tasks and constructed building structures, consistently achieving square and plumb measurements with an accuracy rate of 98.7%.
• Introduced ergonomic grip techniques, reducing incidents concerning hammer-related hand fatigue by 56% via workplace questionnaire.

9 active verbs to start your handyman work experience bullet points

• Constructed
• Implemented

3 Tips to Write a Successful Handyman Resume When You Don’t Have Much Experience

• A handyman may handle many tasks, from customer service to technical repairs, so many experiences will transfer to this role. For example, you could include how you provided friendly service and helped customers choose the right tools while working at a hardware store. 
• Whether it’s completing some shop classes in high school or obtaining your license from the Department of Health and Safety, you likely have many relevant educational achievements you could include. For example, you could explain how you received a 98% overall grade during a high school welding project where you constructed a storage rack with a Power i-MIG setup. 
• When you don’t have much work experience , your hobbies & interests can showcase how you’ll fit into the workplace. For example, you could include your passion for home DIY projects.  

3 Strategies to Write an Effective Handyman Resume When You Have Experience

• When you have a lot of experience, you must include the right jobs on your resume to make specific skills, like drywall or power drills, stand out to hiring managers. So keep your resume to three or four jobs that are the most recent and relevant to each handyman position’s needs. 
• Reverse chronological formatting works best for handyman resumes. It puts your most recent experiences first, which will be the most relevant to achieving up-to-date building codes, and will emphasize your current skill set in remodeling or power equipment as you’ve grown in your career. 
• With a lot of experience installing equipment or troubleshooting issues, it can be easy to get your resume disorganized. Keep your resume well-spaced, use clear headers, and include bullet points when possible so your remodeling and repair skills are easy to identify. 

Your resume shouldn’t go over one page in length. If you’re struggling to narrow it down, try to get specific to each job’s needs. For example, if you’re applying to a company that needs help with HVAC repairs, previous experiences performing refrigerant and ventilation repairs would be essential to emphasize. 

You should customize the skills and experiences you include for each handyman job. It’ll help you stand out when one company needs help with drywall and another needs assistance with carpentry projects. 

A resume template is a great idea to provide a professional structure for your handyman resume and help speed up the application process. That said, just like every blueprint should be drawn up based on a customer’s specific needs, you’ll want to do the same by specifying the power tools and leveling skills you include for each company you apply to.