In short
A career change resume should open with a short summary naming the job you want, followed by a skills section using words from that field's job ads. Put new training and certifications near the top. Then list past jobs with bullets that highlight transferable skills, like customer service or safety, rather than every old duty.
Job numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor StatisticsUpdated October 9, 2026. Pay figures are national medians and are not a promise of what you will earn.
The layout that works
- Summary: two lines. "Newly certified pharmacy technician with six years of fast-paced retail experience."
- Certifications and training: your new credential, school and date.
- Skills: six to eight, matched to job ads.
- Experience: past jobs, with bullets rewritten to show relevant skills.
- Education: high school, GED or college.
Rewriting old bullets
| Old bullet | Rewritten for healthcare |
|---|---|
| Ran the register | Handled payments and records accurately in a high-volume setting |
| Trained new cashiers | Trained and mentored new team members on procedures |
| Dealt with complaints | Calmed upset customers and resolved problems quickly |
Free help
American Job Centers offer free resume reviews and workshops. Find yours with the CareerOneStop locator.
Questions people ask
Should I use a functional resume for a career change?
A combination format, with skills up top and a work history below, usually works better than a skills-only one.
How long should it be?
One page for most entry-level roles in a new field.
Do I need a cover letter?
Often yes; it is your chance to explain the change in a few sentences.