Examples of ATS Platforms & Use Cases

A look at popular ATS examples to uncover the right one to help your business track, organize, and evaluate applicants in the blue-collar hiring process. If you're searching for an applicant tracking system that's built for companies with a distributed workforce, look no further.

ATS Examples

Are you tired of drowning in a sea of resumes, struggling to find the perfect fit for your deskless workforce? If you're an employer, business owner, or part of an HR department in fields like construction, manufacturing, landscaping, or distribution, you know the unique challenges that come with finding the right talent in the current labor shortage. That's where an applicant tracking system (ATS) comes into play.

With an ATS, you can revolutionize your hiring process and streamline the way you manage applicants. Be done with the days of sifting through stacks of resumes or struggling to keep track of candidates!

At its core, an ATS is a tracking system designed to simplify the entire recruitment journey. From initial application to final selection, an ATS empowers you to manage it all efficiently.

From streamlining job postings across multiple platforms to seamlessly sorting through resumes and pre-screening candidates, Team Engine's applicant tracking tool is designed specifically for the trades.

But does that make us the right fit for you?

Below, we'll explore other popular ATS examples, and help you uncover the right one to help you get ahead in the competitive hiring scene of blue-collar industries. Let's uncover the best ATS systems for your deskless workforce!

ATS Meaning

In the ever-evolving landscape of recruitment, understanding the ATS meaning is key to optimizing your hiring process. So, what is ATS and how can it make a difference in your recruitment efforts?

ATS stands for Applicant Tracking System. Think of it as your personal assistant dedicated to overhauling your hiring process so that it's easier and more efficient.

Designed with the unique challenges of blue-collar industries in mind, an ATS software like Team Engine empowers you to overcome the hurdles of ATS recruitment.

At its core, an ATS serves as a central hub for managing job applications and candidates. It enables you to seamlessly track, organize, and evaluate applicants throughout the entire recruitment process. From initial application submissions to the final selection, ATS software acts as your reliable ally.

But an ATS is more than just an organizational tool. It brings efficiency and automation to your hiring strategy. With integrated features such as:

An ATS takes care of the administrative burden, freeing up your valuable time.

Moreover, the meaning of ATS integration refers to its compatibility with other HR software and systems. The integration allows for seamless data transfer and enhances the overall efficiency of your HR operations. Whether it's syncing with your Human Resources Information System (HRIS) or collaborating with other recruitment tools, a good ATS allows for a cohesive and interconnected hiring ecosystem.

By leveraging an ATS, you unlock the power to attract, assess, and onboard top talent efficiently and effectively. It’s no wonder that by 2025 roughly 70% of large companies – and even about one-fifth of small businesses – rely on an ATS to streamline hiring. In fact, nearly 99% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS platforms as part of their recruitment process – a testament to how essential these systems have become in modern recruiting.

Types Of ATS

In the bustling marketplace of recruiting software, ATS systems come in all shapes and sizes, each designed with specific industries and businesses in mind. But just as a foreman wouldn't use a wrench to hammer a nail, the best ATS for your needs depends on your unique circumstances.

For instance, some ATS examples cater to large companies, offering expansive features that can handle the high volume of applicants. These are the powerhouses, the cranes of the ATS world. On the other hand, the best ATS for startups is more like the nimble forklifts, flexible and adaptable, perfectly suited to the dynamic, fast-paced environment of a budding business.

For recruiters in blue-collar industries, the best applicant tracking systems are the ones that understand the nuances of the field, mirroring the resilience and grit of your workforce. They might not be the cheapest applicant tracking system, but they offer value through efficiency and convenience tailored to hiring mechanics, electricians, warehouse associates, and other skilled tradespeople.

In practical terms, ATS platforms can be grouped by their scope and delivery. Some are standalone recruiting tools, while others come as modules within a larger HR suite. A standalone ATS often provides deeper, specialized functionality for hiring, whereas an ATS that’s part of an all-in-one HR system offers a unified experience and centralized data across HR functions.

There are also differences in how ATS software is delivered: many modern systems are cloud-based SaaS (letting you access hiring workflows from anywhere, even on a job site via a mobile app), whereas older solutions might be installed on-premise. And of course, ATS options run the gamut from free or open-source tools with basic features up to premium enterprise software with every bell and whistle.

The key is to choose a system that fits your company’s size, budget, and field. The ATS that’s perfect for a local landscaping company probably wouldn’t cut it for a nationwide logistics firm, and vice versa. Selecting the right kind of ATS ensures it feels less like a one-size-fits-all product and more like a tool built for your particular hiring challenges.

Applicant Tracking System Examples

Navigating through the sea of ATS options can be overwhelming. After all, how many applicant tracking systems are there? Well, dozens…

But we've compiled a list of some standout ATS platforms:

Team Engine

Team Engine is built specifically for companies that hire and manage blue-collar workforces. It combines ATS functionality with hiring automation and workforce communication tools.

Tailored for the trades:

  • Designed for construction, manufacturing, landscaping, and other field-based industries
  • Focuses on high-volume hiring workflows for the trades & other labor-intense industries
  • Mobile-first design built for engaging a workforce that doesn't sit behind a desk

What sets Team Engine apart:

  • Automated job posting, screening, and messaging to keep candidates moving through the funnel
  • Candidate sourcing tools that expand your reach across job boards, social media and referral networks
  • Built-in language translation for both recruiting and internal communication
  • One-to-one and broadcast text messaging to stay connected with your workforce

Why it works: Team Engine automates repetitive hiring tasks, expands your applicant reach, and simplifies communication across a distributed, multilingual workforce. It’s purpose-built for employers who need to hire quickly, stay organized, and keep candidates and employees engaged—without adding more to their plate.

Summary: If you’re hiring skilled tradespeople, warehouse workers, or anyone who doesn’t sit at a desk, Team Engine is the ATS built for your reality. It bridges the gap between hiring and employee engagement in industries that traditional ATS platforms often overlook.

Zoho ATS

Zoho Recruit offers a powerful ATS and candidate relationship management (CRM) in a single platform. This means you get traditional applicant tracking plus tools to nurture candidate relationships.

Key features include:

  • Scalable workflows with customizable fields
  • Resume parsing and job posting automation
  • Reporting dashboards for hiring metrics
  • Native integrations with Zoho's other HR and productivity tools

If you're already using other Zoho products, Zoho Recruit fits in smoothly. It's user-friendly and includes remote hiring tools, making it a flexible solution.

But here's the tradeoff: Zoho serves a wide variety of industries: education, tech, manufacturing, and more. That broad focus means it may lack the fine-tuned features or language needed for blue-collar recruiting. For example:

  • There's limited support for texting candidates
  • Trades-specific workflows may require customization

Bottom line: Zoho is powerful and adaptable, but it may take extra setup to work well in a fast-paced, blue-collar hiring environment.

Lever ATS

Lever combines ATS and CRM functionality in a single tool, marketed as "LeverTRM."

What makes Lever stand out:

  • Sleek, modern interface
  • Strong collaborative tools for hiring teams
  • Automation for resume screening and interview scheduling
  • DEI dashboards and pipeline analytics

Lever excels in corporate environments where data-driven hiring and passive candidate nurturing are priorities.

But for blue-collar hiring?

  • Many features are geared toward desk-based recruiting
  • Built-in communication tools are optimized for email, not text
  • The mobile experience isn’t fully tailored to field teams

Summary: Lever is robust and smart, but may feel like overkill for companies hiring forklift operators or welders. It’s best suited to tech-forward HR teams hiring knowledge workers.

Freshteam ATS

Freshteam by Freshworks is a lightweight ATS built into a broader HR platform. It covers everything from job posting to onboarding and employee record-keeping.

Notable strengths:

  • Clean, user-friendly interface
  • Interview scheduling and email templates
  • Employee directory and time-off tracking
  • Free tier for teams under 50 employees

Why it works: If you need a simple, all-in-one HR tool, Freshteam is a budget-friendly option.

However:

  • Not designed with trades or deskless teams in mind
  • Lacks built-in texting or support for non-traditional applicants
  • “All-in-one” design may add clutter if you only want an ATS

Verdict: Great for small office teams. Field-based employers may find themselves needing workarounds.

JazzHR

JazzHR is one of the most popular ATS platforms for small businesses, and for good reason.

Highlights:

  • Low monthly pricing (starts around $50/month)
  • User-friendly dashboards and workflows
  • Automation for candidate screening and emails
  • Add-on for candidate texting

Where it shines: Budget-conscious teams that want powerful tools without a learning curve.

Limitations for blue-collar employers:

  • You’ll need to configure it manually for trade-specific roles
  • Texting requires an additional purchase
  • No built-in expertise or playbooks for recruiting field teams

Bottom line: JazzHR is a solid ATS for lean teams, but employers in construction or manufacturing will need to invest time in tailoring it.

BreezyHR

Breezy HR offers a free tier and affordable paid plans, making it a favorite for small businesses dipping their toes into ATS software.

Strengths:

  • Clean, drag-and-drop interface
  • Built-in texting and candidate messaging
  • DEI-focused features (blind screening, inclusive job boards)
  • Available via mobile and desktop

Good to know:

  • Free version is limited to one job posting and basic features
  • Automation, job board integrations, and interview scheduling require paid tiers

Downsides for blue-collar hiring:

  • No built-in understanding of skilled trade certifications or hiring workflows
  • Users report occasional bugs

Verdict: Breezy is a great starting point for businesses with simple hiring needs. But fast-growing companies or those hiring for skilled trade roles will likely outgrow its limitations quickly.

Automated Applicant Tracking System

In the demanding world of blue-collar industries, you need an automated applicant tracking system that works as hard as you do. Team Engine can be your partner, providing an ATS that understands the hustle and bustle of recruitment, allowing you to keep up with the rapidly changing times without adding extra work to your schedule.

But just because we say so, doesn't mean you should take our word for it. You need to make sure the ATS you choose is a perfect fit.

Take the time to review the features of ATS examples, and determine which one best suits your unique recruitment needs.

What should you consider when choosing an ATS?

Team Engine ticks all these boxes and more, offering an applicant tracking platform that's tailor-made for the hardworking blue-collar industry. Let us show you how Team Engine can rev up your hiring process. Click here to sign up for a demo now!

Team Engine is Built to Manage a Mobile Workforce

Whether you have an HR Department Of One handling all the functions of employees’ tenure, or you’re managing HR teams across multiple locations, or you fall somewhere between—Team Engine was built to help companies just like yours build a distributed, deskless workforce that stays for the long term.

Hire Faster & Retain Employees Longer

To win the war on talent, you need a lightning-fast hiring process and a fail-proof system for consistent communication with candidates and employees alike. Team Engine helps you attract more applicants, hire them quicker and—crucially—keep them engaged throughout their tenure.

find and hire great people

Find and hire great people

Automate the redundant tasks in your hiring process so you can add value where it matters most.

motivate and retain quality employees

Motivate and retain quality employees

Get new hires off to a good start with structured one-on-ones and the opportunity to give feedback on the experience.

execute and continuously improve

Execute and continuously improve

Build connectedness across your company to get work done, create efficient processes, and nurture a culture of growth and development.

Capture More Business & Avoid Costly Turnover

Turnover is expensive, decreases productivity, and even leads to loss of business due to capacity. Curb those turnover costs and improve employee retention with Team Engine.

centralized recruiting hub

Centralized Recruiting Hub

accelerate time-to-hire

Accelerate Time-to-Hire

more engaged staff

More Engaged Staff

improve employee communication

Improve Employee Communication

Inefficient Processes & Poor Communication are Degrading Your Employee Experience

Everyday we talk to companies who are wasting thousands of dollars on job boards, when they could be sourcing more broadly to find the right people; hiring more quickly to beat their competition; and onboarding new hires more effectively. With Team Engine, you can deliver a more engaging experience—beginning to end—for your most valuable company asset.

employee communicating with eomployer via text message
Trusted by
automated employee onboarding survey

33% of employees point to a lack of up-front communication as having the most negative impact on employee morale.

Give your workforce a direct line of communication with leadership that makes it comfortable and easy for them to ask questions. Keep your staff informed (without burdening managers) using Team Engine’s text & email automations.

1 in 3 people check their text notifications within 1 minute.

It’s a lose-lose situation when you work hard to keep your employees involved and informed, but they never see or respond to the messages. Team Engine makes it easy to reach the right people at the right time on the right channel to make sure no one ever misses an announcement again.

96% of job applicants opt in to text message communication.

Team Engine has texting built-in throughout your interactions with applicants, employees, or referrals. You don’t have to use your own cell phone and everyone on the leadership team can see the communication in one place.

Employee turnover costs between $4,00 - $6,000 per employee.

Most attrition occurs within the first 30-90 days, so it’s critical to get employees off to a good start. Team Engine’s built-in automations make personalizing every employee’s onboarding experience a breeze.

texting vs. calling - modern recruiters use texting

If you’re committed to providing a better, more engaging employee experience, Team Engine makes it possible.