The Ultimate ATS Keyword Database: 500+ Terms for 10

Access our comprehensive database of 500+ ATS resume keywords across 10 industries. Learn exactly which terms to include in your resume to beat applicant tracking systems in 2026.

Understanding ATS Resume Keywords in 2026

Did you know that around 75% of resumes are rejected by Applicant Tracking Systems before a human ever sees them? In today’s competitive job market, understanding how ATS systems evaluate resumes is crucial for job seekers. ATS keywords are specific terms and phrases that these automated systems scan for when processing your resume.

How to Use This ATS Keyword Database Effectively

To get the most out of our comprehensive ATS keyword database, follow these best practices for incorporating these terms into your resume:

1. Find the right keywords for your industry in the sections below
2. 2. Place keywords strategically throughout your resume, especially in your summary, skills section, and work experience
3. 3. Use a mix of exact keyword matches and variations to demonstrate breadth of knowledge
4. 4. Avoid keyword stuffing – aim for natural integration that reads well to human reviewers
5. 5. Customize your keyword selection based on each specific job description you’re applying for

ATS Keywords Database by Industry

Below you’ll find our comprehensive database of ATS-friendly keywords organized by industry. Each section includes essential hard skills, soft skills, certifications, and action verbs that will help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems and land on the hiring manager’s desk.

Technology & IT Resume Keywords

Hard Skills: Python, Java, JavaScript, SQL, AWS, Azure, Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD, Git, Machine Learning, Data Analysis, Network Security, Cloud Computing, DevOps, Full-Stack Development, API Development, Agile Methodology, Scrum, Test-Driven Development

Soft Skills: Problem-Solving, Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, Time Management, Adaptability, Creativity, Leadership, Project Management, Attention to Detail

Certifications: AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer, CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Google Cloud Professional, Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)

Action Verbs: Developed, Implemented, Optimized, Engineered, Programmed, Designed, Deployed, Maintained, Troubleshot, Analyzed, Automated, Integrated, Configured, Architected, Resolved

Business & Finance Resume Keywords

Hard Skills: Financial Analysis, Budgeting, Forecasting, Risk Management, Financial Reporting, Excel, QuickBooks, SAP, Data Visualization, Market Research, Strategic Planning, Business Development, CRM, Accounting, Tax Preparation, Investment Analysis, Portfolio Management, Cash Flow Management

Soft Skills: Analytical Thinking, Attention to Detail, Communication, Negotiation, Decision Making, Client Relationship Management, Leadership, Team Management, Problem-Solving, Time Management, Organization, Ethical Judgment

Certifications: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Financial Risk Manager (FRM), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Series 7, Series 63

Action Verbs: Analyzed, Managed, Increased, Reduced, Negotiated, Forecasted, Budgeted, Reconciled, Generated, Streamlined, Implemented, Advised, Coordinated, Supervised, Executed

Healthcare Resume Keywords

Hard Skills: Patient Care, Electronic Medical Records (EMR), Medical Terminology, Vital Signs Monitoring, Clinical Documentation, HIPAA Compliance, CPR, Medication Administration, Disease Management, ICD-10 Coding, Medical Billing, Phlebotomy, Laboratory Testing, Diagnostic Procedures, Infection Control

Soft Skills: Compassion, Empathy, Communication, Active Listening, Critical Thinking, Attention to Detail, Teamwork, Stress Management, Adaptability, Cultural Sensitivity, Ethics, Patient Advocacy, Time Management

Certifications: Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Action Verbs: Administered, Assessed, Coordinated, Diagnosed, Documented, Educated, Implemented, Monitored, Provided, Rehabilitated, Screened, Treated, Cared, Managed, Supported

Engineering & Manufacturing Resume Keywords

Hard Skills: CAD/CAM, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Mechanical Design, Electrical Engineering, Process Improvement, Quality Control, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Supply Chain Management, CNC Programming, 3D Modeling, Product Development, Prototyping, Technical Documentation, Project Management, Root Cause Analysis

Soft Skills: Problem-Solving, Analytical Thinking, Attention to Detail, Communication, Teamwork, Leadership, Time Management, Innovation, Adaptability, Critical Thinking, Safety Consciousness, Precision

Certifications: Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE), Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE), OSHA Safety Certification, AutoCAD Certified Professional

Action Verbs: Designed, Engineered, Developed, Implemented, Improved, Optimized, Fabricated, Maintained, Tested, Analyzed, Troubleshot, Reduced, Increased, Streamlined, Automated

Marketing & Sales Resume Keywords

Hard Skills: Digital Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing, SEO, SEM, Google Analytics, Email Marketing, CRM, Marketing Automation, Lead Generation, Sales Funnel Management, Conversion Rate Optimization, Copywriting, Brand Management, Market Research, Campaign Management, Adobe Creative Suite

Soft Skills: Communication, Persuasion, Negotiation, Relationship Building, Creativity, Strategic Thinking, Customer Service, Presentation Skills, Active Listening, Adaptability, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Time Management, Emotional Intelligence

Certifications: Google Ads Certification, Google Analytics Certification, HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification, Facebook Blueprint Certification, Salesforce Certified Administrator, Digital Marketing Certification, Content Marketing Certification, SEO Certification

Action Verbs: Generated, Increased, Launched, Developed, Implemented, Managed, Negotiated, Acquired, Converted, Achieved, Exceeded, Promoted, Strategized, Optimized, Coordinated

Conclusion: Maximizing Your ATS Success

Armed with this comprehensive ATS keyword database, you’re now equipped to create resumes that will successfully navigate through applicant tracking systems and land on hiring managers’ desks. Remember these key takeaways:

1. Always tailor your keywords to the specific job description
2. 2. Use a balanced mix of hard skills, soft skills, and industry-specific terminology
3. 3. Place keywords strategically throughout your resume, especially in your summary and work experience sections
4. 4. Avoid keyword stuffing – focus on natural integration
5. 5. Update your keyword strategy regularly as industry terminology evolves

By implementing these strategies and utilizing the industry-specific keywords provided in this database, you’ll significantly increase your chances of getting past the ATS filters and securing interviews for your dream positions.

Ready to put these keywords to work? Try our AI-powered resume builder to create an ATS-optimized resume in minutes!