How to Write a Job Description Skilled Trades Candidates Will Actually Read
October 7, 2026 · JPR
Most job descriptions read like they were written for the HR file, not for the person you're trying to hire. A long list of duties, a longer list of requirements, and nothing that tells a good machinist or maintenance tech why they'd want to make a change.
Skilled trades candidates read differently. Here's what they look for and how to write a description that gets them to respond.
Start with what they'll actually be doing
Skip the company history in the first paragraph. Open with the work: what they'll run, build, fix or maintain, and what a normal day looks like.
A good opening line sounds like "You'll set up and run manual and CNC mills and lathes on custom, low-volume parts," not "We are seeking a motivated individual to join our growing team."
Put pay, shift and schedule near the top
These are the first things most candidates want to know, and leaving them out is one of the fastest ways to lose people. If you can't share an exact number, a range is far better than nothing. Be specific about the shift, overtime expectations and whether weekends are involved.
Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves
A long list of requirements discourages people who could do the job well. Ask yourself which skills are truly required on day one and which ones you'd train.
- Must have: the skills someone needs to be safe and productive from the start.
- Nice to have: experience that helps but isn't a deal breaker.
- Willing to train: say so plainly if it's true. It widens your pool more than almost anything else.
Be concrete about the equipment and the work
Tradespeople want to know what they'll be working on. Mention the types of machines, controls, materials and tolerances involved. "Large custom components and rebuilds" tells an experienced millwright far more than "various mechanical tasks."
Tell them what makes the job worth it
Every employer says "competitive pay and benefits." Say something that only you could say instead:
- Steady, long-term work and how long people tend to stay
- Training, mentorship and room to move up
- Variety in the work, or the chance to work on interesting projects
- Benefits that stand out, like profit sharing or strong health coverage
Keep it readable
Short paragraphs, clear headings and simple bullet points. Many candidates will read your description on a phone during a break, so if it's a wall of text they'll move on.
A description is only half of it
Even a great job description mostly reaches people who are already looking. Many of the best candidates for skilled positions aren't, which is why the right candidates often aren't applying to openings in the first place.
JPR helps employers in Jefferson County and the surrounding counties with both: we help sharpen the description, then go find and reach out to people whose background fits. Tell us what you're hiring for and we'll take it from there.