Skilled Tradesperson CV Template
A practical CV template designed for skilled trades, construction, and manual labor professionals.
Template Features
- ATS-Friendly
- Skills Focus
- Practical Design
- Certification Ready
Perfect For
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Construction workers
- Skilled tradespeople
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About This Template
The Skilled Tradesperson CV template is built for professionals in construction, electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, welding, and other skilled trades where hands-on competencies and certifications matter most. Unlike office-based CV templates, this design prioritises trade qualifications, safety certifications, tool and equipment proficiency, and practical project experience. The layout is straightforward and no-nonsense, reflecting the direct communication style valued in trade industries. It includes structured sections for NVQ levels, City & Guilds certifications, CSCS card details, and site-specific training. Whether you are an experienced electrician seeking a senior role, a newly qualified plumber building your client base, or a construction supervisor managing large projects, this template presents your practical skills and safety credentials clearly and professionally.
Why Use This Template
Trade-specific sections for NVQ, City & Guilds, CSCS cards, and safety certifications
Practical project format showing scope, scale, and type of work completed
Clean, straightforward layout that matches trade industry communication expectations
Equipment and tools proficiency section for specialist trade skills
How to Customise This Template
- 1
List all current certifications with expiry dates — CSCS, Gas Safe, ECS, IPAF, PASMA, asbestos awareness, first aid. Expired certifications should be removed or marked for renewal.
- 2
Describe projects by type and scale: 'Domestic rewire — 4-bedroom Victorian property, full consumer unit upgrade' or 'Commercial fit-out — 15,000 sq ft office, Cat A to Cat B'.
- 3
Include your transport situation if relevant (full driving licence, own van/tools) — many trade employers consider this essential.
- 4
If you work as a subcontractor, mention your insurance status (public liability, professional indemnity) and any trade body memberships (NICEIC, Gas Safe register).
Industry-Specific Advice
Trade recruitment focuses on three things: current certifications, relevant project experience, and availability. Agencies want to see CSCS card colour and type, specific certifications, and your willingness to travel. Direct employers look for a track record of similar project types and reliable attendance. If you are seeking supervisory roles, highlight any SMSTS/SSSTS certification, team sizes managed, and health & safety records. For self-employed tradespeople, this CV doubles as a credentials document when tendering for commercial contracts or applying to approved contractor lists.
Formatting & Presentation Guide
One to two pages maximum. Place certifications and qualifications first — this is what agencies and site managers check immediately. Use clear section headings and avoid jargon that is specific to only one employer. Include your CSCS card type and number. List projects in reverse chronological order with brief, factual descriptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I include my hourly or day rate on the CV?
Generally no, unless applying through agencies that specifically request it. Rates are usually discussed during the application process and including them can limit your negotiating flexibility.
How important are safety certifications on a trade CV?
Extremely important. Many sites will not allow entry without a valid CSCS card and relevant safety training. List all current certifications with their expiry dates prominently on your CV.
Should I list every job I have worked on?
No. Focus on the most relevant and impressive projects. Group smaller jobs: 'Various domestic electrical installations across the West Midlands (2020–2023)'. Detail larger or specialist projects individually.
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