Resume Objective | 60+ Examples & Tips

A resume objective—which outlines the type of position or work environment you’re seeking—used to be the standard way to begin a resume. Within the last two decades, the standard resume format has changed, and employers now expect a resume summary at the top of your resume (just below your contact information).

A resume summary is an overview of your qualifications that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. But this section can be challenging if you just graduated, you’re applying for your first job, or you’re changing careers.

In those situations, a resume objective can supplement the qualifications in your resume summary with evidence of your motivation. Resume objectives are not necessary when you have a lot of experience in your field.

If you do include an objective in your resume summary, make sure that the section also summarizes your skills, and customize the wording for each potential employer.

What is a resume objective?

A resume objective is a phrase in the first section of a resume that outlines a short-term career goal or the type of position you’re seeking. At one time, most job seekers put an objective on a resume.

Nowadays, most resumes begin with a professional summary, which is an overview of the skills and experience that you can offer the employer.

A professional summary doesn’t always need to include an objective, especially when you already have experience in your field, but you can include one if you’re new to your profession or don’t have a lot of experience to summarize.

How to write an objective for a resume

Writing a convincing and professional resume summary that includes a resume objective involves several steps.

1. Review the job posting, and make a list of the required hard skills (e.g., technologies or software) and soft skills (e.g., collaboration or problem-solving). Your resume summary and objective should include the required skills that you have, using the words from the job posting to increase your chances for an interview.
2. Write a heading (e.g., “Summary,” “Professional Summary,” or “Profile”) beneath the contact information on your resume. Avoid the heading “Objective,” as this might make your resume look outdated. You can also skip the heading or use the job title from the job posting as your heading (e.g., “Java Programmer”).
3. Choose a phrase that describes your main area and level of expertise (e.g., “Analytical and detail-oriented computer science student”). Your resume objective will start with this phrase.
4. List the relevant skills in which you’re proficient, starting with a phrase like “proficient in” or “detailed knowledge of.”
5. Write a phrase, starting with “seeking” or “pursuing” and the type of role, industry, and/or work environment you’re looking for. This description should show that your motivation is aligned with the work you’ll be doing for a particular job opening.

60 resume objective examples

These resume objective examples for multiple jobs show how to tailor a resume objective to different industries and situations. Each of these fictional examples includes a summary of the applicant’s skills/expertise along with an objective that is tailored to each company or role.

Customer service resume objective examples

• Personable and dependable customer service enthusiast with excellent written and verbal communication and a passion for problem solving. 3+ years of success in retail and volunteer positions where customer satisfaction was a top priority. Proficient in Salesforce and Excel. Eager to improve brand loyalty and satisfaction ratings for LL Jean clientele.
• Seeking an entry-level CSR position, where I can apply my strong interpersonal skills, passion for helping others, and knowledge of medical claims to provide exceptional customer support. Eager to grow within a dynamic company that values professionalism, integrity, and customer-centered care.
• Customer-focused computer science student with deep knowledge of broadband technologies and Wi-Fi configuration and a strong knack for explaining complex technical concepts. Dedicated to delivering exceptional service and tech support for Everest customers and efficiently managing high-volume inbound calls.

Objective for nursing resume examples

• Compassionate RN with 3 years of clinical experience in pediatric patient care, medical procedures, vaccinations, and health education. Skilled in patient assessment and emergency response. Eager to deliver high-quality care and enhance patient outcomes in a collaborative family practice.
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) with a strong commitment to high-quality care and support for older adults. Experienced in assisting with daily activities, monitoring patient health, and ensuring comfort in assisted living settings. Seeking a CNA position to utilize my skills in patient care and medical records to promote health and well-being.
• Recent Doctor of Nursing (DNP) graduate and certified nurse anesthetist with comprehensive academic and clinical training. Skilled in administering and monitoring anesthesia during various surgical procedures with a strong foundation in patient assessment, pharmacology, and ER protocols. Committed to collaborating with the SBMC team to ensure positive patient outcomes.

Objective for engineering resume examples

• Skilled electrical engineer with advanced coursework in circuit design, troubleshooting, and system implementation. Proficient in using CAD software and performing simulations. Seeking to leverage graduate-level electrical engineering expertise to innovative projects in the laboratory equipment industry.
• Mechanical engineering undergraduate with hands-on experience in CAD modeling, thermal analysis, and materials science. Proficient in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and MATLAB for design, simulation, and analysis tasks. Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot mechanical systems, perform testing, and create detailed reports. Seeking summer internships to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.
• Civil engineering graduate with experience in project management, structural analysis, and construction methods. Detailed knowledge of AutoCAD, Revit, and Civil 3D. Strong understanding of building codes with a deep interest in sustainable infrastructure and urban development. Ready to apply my engineering skills to improve infrastructure in the greater Salt Lake City area.

Administrative resume objective examples

• Proactive and detail-oriented law student with strong communication and organizational skills seeking part-time administrative work. Proficient in MS Word, Excel, Zoom, and Google calendar. Eager to assist your dynamic team of family law attorneys through efficient administrative support.
• Highly organized business graduate with a strong foundation in administrative support, project coordination, and financial management. Experienced in scheduling, event planning, preparing budgets, and assisting with grant proposals. Dedicated to providing exceptional support to ensure the success of meetings, events, and ongoing projects.
• Personable and detail-oriented receptionist skilled in managing customer traffic and inbound queues to provide a positive guest experience. Fast learner who will leverage expertise in Excel, CRM tools, and business reports to develop proficiency in Toyota dealership software and sales metrics.

Banking and finance resume objectives

• Analytical and personable economics graduate with a strong motivation to serve the Rolla community as a UNB mortgage loan officer. Developed a solid understanding of lending products, underwriting, credit worthiness, documentation procedures, and cross-selling through summer internships and advanced coursework.
• Goal-driven business graduate seeking a personal banker position to leverage my sales experience, consultative skills, and passion for member service. Knowledgeable of compliance and industry standards and eager to help members make sound financial decisions, cross-sell relevant products, and foster long-term relationships.
• Highly-motivated business and finance student with a strong foundation in financial reporting, data analysis, internal control documentation, risk management, and regulatory compliance. Seeking internship opportunities to contribute to the Risk & Financial Advisory Team and refine my skills in specialized audit services.
• Meticulous and deadline-focused accounting graduate with proficiency in QuickBooks, Excel, and financial reporting. Internship experience handling accounts payable and receivable in the home renovation industry. Eager to ensure seamless financial operations while gaining practical experience.

Objectives for teaching resumes

• Experienced and compassionate computer programmer seeking a first-year teaching position in a collaborative and rigorous learning environment, where I can leverage industry expertise to mentor 9–12 computer science students in basic to advanced programming languages.
• Motivated and empathetic first-year ESOL teacher with a solid foundation in language acquisition theories, instructional strategies, and cultural competency. Skilled in creating engaging lesson plans, fostering an inclusive classroom environment, and adapting teaching methods to meet students’ needs. Eager to support students’ language development and academic success.
• Energetic and dedicated physical education teacher seeking opportunities to promote student wellness. Skilled in designing engaging lessons that cater to a variety of fitness levels, interests, and abilities. Detailed knowledge of National Health Education Standards. 3+ years experience with assistant coaching at the high school level.

Resume objectives for IT and Computer Science roles

• Insightful software engineer who excels in software design, testing, and deployment. Seeking to leverage expertise in Java, Python, and web development to drive the success of a dynamic development team.
• Detail-oriented cybersecurity analyst with an MS in Applied Cybersecurity and proven success in network security, risk assessments, intrusion detection methods, and vulnerability management. Seeking to secure organizational infrastructure and safeguard digital assets.
• Skilled web developer with 4 years of success in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and responsive design projects. Adept at building and optimizing user-friendly websites. Seeking to collaborate with a creative team to develop impactful and accessible web solutions.
• Inquisitive computer engineering graduate and aspiring data scientist with detailed knowledge of Core Java, machine learning, Python, Tableau, and Microservices. Excels at identifying trends, patterns, and relationships with visualization tools. Pursuing opportunities to translate data insights into actionable recommendations for the personal finance industry.
• Detail-oriented and proactive quality assurance professional with experience in testing software applications, identifying issues, and ensuring high standards. Proficient in manual testing techniques as well as Selenium, Jira, and TestRail. Collaborative team player who is eager to work closely with developers and product managers. Committed to improving CloudSync’s product functionality and enhancing user experience.

Project manager resume objectives

• Detail-oriented, Agile-certified project coordinator with internship experience in managing timelines, resources, and communications for team projects in public-sector policy automation. Pursuing opportunities to streamline workflows and ensure the successful implementation of expert systems.
• Motivated business and civil engineering graduate with a strong foundation in project management for construction and development projects. Proficient in Microsoft Project and Trello. Excelled at collaborating with cross-functional teams during summer internships to execute residential and commercial building projects. Eager to contribute to Summit Construction’s commitment to quality and efficiency.
• Proactive IT project manager skilled in Agile methodology, SDLC, Jira, and Asana. Adept at collaborating with development teams, clients, and vendors to ensure seamless project delivery. Committed to contributing to NexusTech Solutions’ mission for superior customer satisfaction.

Resume objectives for entry-level sales

• Motivated entry-level sales associate with detailed expertise in EdTech products and internship experience in customer-facing roles. Excels at relationship building, sales presentations, and CRM tools. Looking to apply customer service experience and sales strategies to drive revenue in a growth-focused environment.
• Results driven business graduate with a strong passion for consumer electronics and sales. Proficient in explaining features and benefits of cutting-edge tech products. Eager to contribute to the success of TechWorld Electronics through exceptional customer service and strong communication skills.
• Tech-savvy graduate seeking a sales representative position at CloudSync Solutions to leverage my enthusiasm for technology and sales. Deep familiarity with advanced features of CloudSync software, including document management, collaboration tools, and secure file-sharing. Adept at identifying customer needs and offering tailored solutions.

SEO specialist resume objectives

• Creative and passionate SEO specialist with 2 years of internship and volunteer experience in optimizing websites and improving search engine rankings. Proficient in keyword research and Google analytics. Eager to drive organic growth and contribute to the online success of the Get Growing gardening blog.
• Recent marketing graduate and SEO specialist with a strong background in driving organic traffic and improving search engine rankings for fashion blogs. Skilled in keyword research, backlink strategies, and content optimization to increase user engagement. Advanced expertise in Google Analytics, SEMrush, and Ahrefs. Ready to elevate Très Chic’s ongoing success in a competitive online market.

Graphic designer objective for a resume

• Innovative and adaptable graphic designer with 2 years of experience developing high-quality print and digital designs for undergraduate coursework and summer internships. Advanced expertise in Adobe Creative Suite and project management software. Seeking a summer internship to elevate brand awareness in the hospitality industry.
• Creative and detail-oriented visual arts student with a strong foundation in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Skilled in conceptual design, digital illustration, and 3D modeling software. Eager to leverage design expertise and creative skills through a graphic design internship.
• Transitioning art teacher with 5+ years of experience teaching visual arts and digital design. Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and passionate about blending artistic vision with modern design trends. Adept at working in fast-paced, collaborative environments with tight deadlines. Ready to leverage my artistic background and design skills to create engaging content.

Social media manager resume objectives

• Highly motivated and creative marketing graduate with a passion for sustainable living, seeking to contribute to EcoVibe’s digital presence as a social media manager. Proficient in managing social media platforms, creating engaging content, and analyzing performance metrics to drive brand growth. Eager to leverage a blend of fresh ideas, creative energy, and marketing knowledge to elevate EcoVibe’s online community.
• Results-driven social media expert with a strong foundation in developing and executing comprehensive social media strategies across multiple platforms. Skilled in crafting compelling content, including graphics, videos, and written posts to boost brand presence and engage audiences. Ready to contribute innovative ideas, strategic thinking, and a passion for digital marketing.

Event coordinator resume objective

• Recent college graduate with a BA in Hospitality Management and hands-on experience in event planning, seeking to join Grandview Convention Center as an Event Coordinator. Adept at coordinating large-scale conferences and trade shows, ensuring smooth execution and client satisfaction. Skilled in vendor management, event logistics, and customer service.
• Highly-organized event planning graduate with a passion for creating memorable wedding experiences. Assisted with wedding planning, vendor coordination, and event execution through two successful summer internships. Strong interpersonal skills, a keen eye for detail, and a knack for multi-tasking under pressure. Eager to contribute creativity and fresh ideas to help Luxe Wedding clients create elegant and memorable events.
• Detail-oriented event planning graduate with experience coordinating small corporate events, intimate gatherings, and community workshops through internships and part-time roles. Skilled in collaborating with local vendors, managing event timelines, and delivering personalized experiences. Excited to bring my passion for community-focused events to The Greenhouse Café.

HR assistant resume objectives

• Energetic and organized HR assistant and SHRM-CP with a solid understanding of recruitment processes, employee onboarding, and HR software. Internship experience assisting with employee relations and talent acquisition. Seeking an opportunity to leverage HR skills in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Meticulous HR assistant with experience in employee onboarding, record management, and payroll processing. Proficient in using HRIS software to generate reports, manage records, and ensure I-9 and SSN verification compliance. Adept at tracking certifications, processing new hires, and assisting with W-2 retrieval and direct deposit changes. Eager to support Millard Department Stores’ HR initiatives.

Training specialist resume objectives

• Results-oriented instructional design graduate seeking to contribute my expertise in training programs and the tech industry to the training specialist role at TechSolutions, Inc. Eager to design and deliver engaging, interactive training sessions to empower employees and enhance productivity.
• Passionate educator transitioning to corporate training with 8+ years of experience in curriculum development. Committed to leveraging my teaching background, strong communication skills, and expertise in learning management systems to create engaging learning experiences for EduPath Solutions employees and clientele.
• Aspiring corporate trainer with a background in health and wellness and graduate coursework in instructional design. Detailed knowledge of scaffolding techniques and best practices for trainee assessment. Impeccable technical writer who creates concise and engaging training content.

Construction resume objectives

• Skilled general contractor with 4+ years of experience in carpentry, drywall installation, masonry, and framing. Strong focus on maintaining clean and organized worksites. Proficient in construction tools and OSHA standards. Pursuing a full-time position in commercial construction site management.
• Reliable general laborer with an AAS in Construction Technology seeking an opportunity to leverage my knowledge of demolition, site preparation, and material handling on residential job sites. Adept at following safety protocols and supporting team members to ensure smooth project flow. Ready to apply my strong work ethic and positive attitude to the success of Hearthside Homes.

Research assistant resume objectives

• Highly-motivated environmental science PhD candidate with detailed expertise in field research, data collection, and environmental impact assessments. Proficient in GIS software, statistical analysis, and environmental monitoring techniques. Passionate about contributing to scientific studies that promote environmental sustainability.
• Motivated psychology student with extensive experience in experimental design, behavioral data collection, and statistical analysis. Skilled in SPSS, MATLAB, and other research tools for analyzing mental health data. Eager to leverage my knowledge of psychological theories and methods to support ABC Lab’s innovative research.
• Analytical and strategic business administration student with a focus on market analysis, organizational behavior, and business strategy. Experienced in data collection, financial modeling, and statistical analysis. Highly motivated to contribute impactful research in business practices, entrepreneurship, and organizational development.

Resume objective for a pharmacist

• Pharmacy graduate with a strong foundation in prescription medication, patient counseling, and inventory management. Proficient in providing high-quality care and ensuring patient safety. Eager to leverage my clinical knowledge and dedication in an entry-level pharmacist role while contributing to CPS’s collaborative healthcare team.
• Dedicated pharmacy student with a solid background in pharmaceutical sciences, medical terminology, and clinical practices and 3+ years of impeccable customer service experience. Seeking a summer internship with the KP Med Center pharmacy to expand practical knowledge in patient counseling, medication management, and inventory control.

Objective for physical therapist resume

• Recent Doctor of Physical Therapy (DTP) graduate seeking an entry-level position at PrimeCare Rehab Clinic. Detailed knowledge of assessing and treating musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Ensured efficient patient recovery and positive long-term outcomes through personalized, compassionate care during supervised clinical experiences.
• DPT graduate with hands-on experience in sports rehabilitation, injury prevention, and functional movement assessment. Experienced in treating athletes through personalized rehabilitation programs, utilizing manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and electrical stimulation during a supervised practicum. Committed to supporting athletes’ recovery journeys at ActiveLife Wellness Center.
• Patient-focused, pediatric DPT seeking opportunities to improve outcomes at Family Health Physical Therapy. Completed clinical rotations in a variety of pediatric rehabilitation settings to address development delays, neurological conditions, and musculoskeletal injuries. Skilled in designing age-appropriate recovery programs and building strong relationships.
• Compassionate DPT graduate with clinical experience in geriatric physical therapy, focusing on fall prevention, mobility improvement, and strength training for older adults. Experienced in assessing and addressing age-related conditions and creating individualized treatment plans. Looking to leverage my training to support Urban Health & Rehab Center’s patients.

Objective for dental assistant resume

• Certified Dental Assistant seeking an entry-level position at Bright Smile Dentistry. Excelled at hands-on training in dental procedures, sterilization protocols, and patient records. Proficient in taking X-rays, preparing treatment rooms, and providing chairside support.
• Compassionate and motivated CDA looking to join Sunset Family Dentistry as an entry-level team member, where I can apply my skills in pediatric care, patient education, and chairside assistance to support young patients and create a positive dental experience.
• Patient-centered CDA with a strong foundation in cosmetic procedures, including teeth whitening, dental bonding, and smile makeovers. Proficient in taking digital X-rays, managing patient files, and providing pre- and post-treatment instructions to ensure successful outcomes. Eager to assist with cutting-edge treatments at Elite Cosmetic Dentistry.
• Meticulous, DANB-certified dental assistant with a strong interest in orthodontics and a solid foundation in chairside assistance and patient communication. Excelled at preparing patients for orthodontic treatments such as braces, aligners, and retainers. Excited to bring my skills and enthusiasm to Northside Family Orthodontics.

Other interesting articles

If you want to know more about common mistakes, verbs, or US vs UK spellings, make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Frequently asked questions about resume objectives

Does a resume need an objective?

A resume does not always need an objective (aka a sentence or phrase about your short-term career goal). Resumes used to begin with an objective, but now they begin with a summary.

A resume summary is an overview of your skills and experience. The summary can also include an objective if you’re changing careers, applying for your first job, or need to explain a resume gap.

Whether you include a summary or objective, your resume should be free of errors. QuillBot’s free Grammar Checker instantly finds and fixes typos.

Is a summary or an objective better for a resume?

A resume summary is better than a resume objective. You can include an objective in a resume summary, though. A resume summary provides employers with an overview of your skills and experience at the top of your resume. Your summary can include a phrase about your short-term career goal, too.

Describing your objective can be useful for your first job or a major career change as long as you also summarize your skills and background.

Have you tried QuillBot’s free paraphrasing tool? It can instantly level up your resume with powerful word choices and concise syntax.

How can I make my resume ATS friendly?

Some tips for how to make a resume ATS-friendly are:

• Use a simple template, and avoid images and graphics.
• Use standard headings (e.g., “Work Experience”).
• Choose a standard, readable font (e.g., Arial, Calibri) that’s between 10–12 points.
• For bullet points, use standard characters instead of fancy symbols.
• Use keywords from the job posting throughout your resume (e.g., in your summary or objective section).

You should also make sure your resume is free of spelling and grammar errors, so that the ATS’s AI can easily read it. QuillBot’s free Grammar Checker can help you do just that.

How do you tailor your resume for different job applications?

To tailor your resume for different job applications, focus on customizing your skills and experience to match the specific job description. Use relevant action verbs for your resume to demonstrate your qualifications. Highlight the most important skills and achievements that align with the position. For each role, it may be helpful to adjust your resume format (e.g., the summary or objective section) slightly to emphasize the aspects most relevant to the employer’s needs.

In your cover letter or letter of interest, express how your background uniquely fits the role. This will show that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the position, making your application stand out.

QuillBot’s Paraphraser can help you rewrite sentences to effectively tailor your resume for different job applications.

How long should a resume summary be?

A resume summary (aka a professional summary) should be a few lines at the top of the resume just below your name and contact information.

In 3–5 lines or a few phrases, summarize the following:

• Your professional role and years of experience (e.g. “Resourceful and results-driven retail manager with over 5 years of experience exceeding revenue goals and mentoring sales associates”)
• The main accomplishments or strengths that are relevant to the job you’re applying for (e.g., “Spearheaded recruiting and training programs that increased employee retention by 50%”)

This section used to be called an objective, but a resume summary is the current standard practice.

When you’re revising a resume to achieve the ideal resume length of 1–2 pages, QuillBot’s free Paraphraser can help you with concise word choices.