Resume Keywords by Industry

Not all ATS keywords are the same. The terms that help a software engineer pass automated screening are completely different from what a nurse, an accountant, or a marketing manager needs. Industry-specific keywords matter because ATS platforms score resumes against the exact language used in each field's job descriptions. If your resume uses generic terms while your competition uses precise industry terminology, the system will rank them higher.

These guides break down what matters in tech, healthcare, finance, and marketing. Each guide covers the certifications, software tools, hard skills, and industry terminology that ATS systems in that field are programmed to recognise. You will find concrete examples of how to present each keyword naturally within your work experience bullet points.

If you are unsure where to start, begin with the general ATS resume keywords guide, which covers the fundamentals of finding and using keywords across all fields. Then pick your industry below for targeted advice. The goal is straightforward: use the right terms for your field so your resume ranks higher and reaches a recruiter.

New to ATS keywords? Start with our main guide on finding and using the right terms for your resume, then return here for your specific industry.