Key takeaways
- Skip the objective statement — recruiters don't read them anymore.
- Lead every bullet with a measurable impact number, not a duty.
- Two pages is fine if you've earned it; one page is a strong default.
- Optimize for the human reader first, ATS parser second.
The founding engineer role is quietly one of the most misunderstood in tech. Everyone thinks they know what it involves. Almost no one is right.
Here's what the job actually looks like across the first three years, in three real stories from people who lived it.
Try it yourself
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Our resume builder starts you off with the exact structure hiring managers scan for. Free to try.
A good resume doesn't win the job — it wins the interview. Aim for the interview, not the applause.
"The role every senior IC secretly wants — and what it actually feels like day 1 to year 3. Written by people who've done it."
Frequently asked
Quick answers to common questions
- 01
How long should my resume be?
One page if you have under 8 years of relevant experience. Two pages max otherwise — every extra line has to earn its place.
- 02
Do I still need a cover letter in 2026?
Only when the role explicitly asks for one, or when you're changing industries and need to explain the story. Otherwise, skip it.
- 03
What about ATS keyword stuffing?
Mirror the exact phrasing from the job description — but only where it's honest. Naked keyword lists at the bottom look like tricks.
- 04
Should I include a photo?
In the US and UK: no. In parts of Europe, LATAM, and East Asia: often yes. Follow the local norm.
Marcus Bergström
3x founding engineer
Writing about career for Joblo. Get in touch on any social channel — replies within 24 hours.
