Continuing our series on landing your first biotech job, we’re diving into a critical—but often overlooked—topic: how to navigate the Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
Whether you're applying for a role in biotech, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices, understanding how ATS tools work can be the difference between getting an interview or getting filtered out before a human ever sees your resume.
What is an ATS, and Why Does It Matter?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software tool used by HR departments to automatically scan and sort resumes. It looks for key criteria like industry-specific keywords, education, and relevant experience to decide whether you're a match for a role.
These systems save companies time, but they also mean your resume needs to be formatted and written in a way that makes sense to a computer—not just a human recruiter.
1. Apply Only to Jobs You’re Qualified For
It might sound obvious, but it’s worth repeating: ATS systems screen based on basic qualifications. If your resume doesn’t match the job’s requirements—such as education level or relevant work history—you likely won’t make it past the system.
Start by applying to roles that align with your background. Then, tailor your resume to clearly reflect the language used in the job description.
2. Match Keywords from the Job Description
One of the most effective ATS strategies is mirroring keywords from the job listing. Review several job posts in your field and jot down recurring terms or skills. These might include:
- Lab automation
- Spatial biology
- Orthopedics
- B2B sales
- GMP or ISO compliance
Incorporate these keywords naturally into your resume. For example:
“Experienced with XYZ automation systems, supporting high-throughput workflows in a regulated lab environment.”
Avoid the temptation to "keyword stuff"—especially by hiding terms in white text. While it might fool the software, it’ll backfire when a real person reads it.
3. Keep Your Resume Simple and Clean
ATS systems don’t handle fancy designs well. Stick with a simple, well-organized format that highlights your experience, skills, and accomplishments.
Here are some quick formatting tips:
- Use a standard font (like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman)
- Avoid text boxes, tables, or graphics
- Use clear headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills”
- Submit your resume as a PDF (unless otherwise specified)
A straightforward resume also helps the HR team quickly assess your fit for the role once you’ve passed the ATS.
4. Be Strategic with Your Applications
Applying to too many jobs at the same company might hurt your chances. If your name pops up across several unrelated roles, it may give the impression that you're unfocused or not truly interested in a specific position.
Instead, choose the one or two roles that best align with your background, and tailor your resume carefully for those.
5. Focus on Readability and Relevance
Make sure your resume can be quickly scanned—by both machines and humans. Highlight your job titles, dates of employment, and relevant experience clearly. If a hiring manager can understand your background in 30 seconds, you’re on the right track.
Use bullet points, consistent formatting, and bold text sparingly to draw attention to important achievements.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the ATS is one of the smartest moves you can make in your biotech job search—especially in a competitive market like Canada.
These small tweaks can make a huge difference in your chances of getting noticed. Keep it simple, stay relevant, and always customize your resume to the role.
Looking for open positions in biotech, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices? Check out the latest opportunities on our job board.
Good luck—you’ve got this!