Chimney Sweep Resume Example and Template
A chimney sweep resume emphasizes safety certifications, inspection expertise, and knowledge of building codes for chimney systems. Show your understanding of creosote removal, structural assessment, and both traditional and modern chimney types.
Employers prioritize CSIA certification, liability insurance, and clean background checks. Include customer retention metrics and experience identifying and correcting draft or safety issues.
Also searched as
Master Chimney Technician, Certified Chimney Sweep, Chimney Technician
Robert Mitchell: Chimney Sweep
Burlington, Vermont, United States
Summary
CSIA-certified chimney sweep with 11 years in inspection, cleaning, and repair of residential and commercial chimney systems. Completed 3,200+ chimney inspections and cleanings. Expert in identifying creosote buildup, code violations, and structural issues. Provides emergency repairs and maintains customer retention rate above 88% through detailed documentation and education.
Work Experience
Master Chimney Technician, Northeast Chimney & Hearth
Jun 2020 – Present. 60-person chimney and fireplace service company
- Conducted 580 Level 2 and Level 3 inspections, identifying code violations and structural issues with 94% customer followup rate
- Trained 5 junior technicians in CSIA standards, inspection protocols, and chimney repair techniques
- Reduced no-call environmental hazard reports by 42% through improved customer education and documentation
- Performed 120+ chimney liners and cap replacements, averaging $2,400 project value
Certified Chimney Sweep, Vermont Hearth Services
Mar 2017 – May 2020. 15-person family-owned chimney and fireplace shop
- Performed 1,200 chimney cleanings and basic inspections, identifying and referring 140+ customers for liner or cap repairs
- Earned CSIA Chimney Sweep certification in 2018 and CSIA Inspector certification in 2019, scoring above 80% on both exams
- Built direct relationships with 60+ repeat customers through professional service and follow-up documentation
Chimney Technician, Green Mountain Chimney Cleaning
May 2015 – Feb 2017. Solo proprietor service based in central Vermont
- Performed 800+ chimney cleanings and basic inspections for residential customers across Chittenden County
- Learned inspection techniques and structural assessment from mentor, CSIA-certified master sweep
- Completed 60 hours classroom training for chimney sweep certification
Education
National Chimney Sweep Guild
Certificate, Chimney Inspection and Safety. Sep 2017 – Dec 2017
Skills
Chimney inspection (Level 1, 2, 3), Creosote and soot removal, Chimney cap and liner installation, Code compliance assessment, Structural diagnosis and repair, Flue and draft testing, Customer safety education, Documentation and liability, Chimney relining systems
Languages
English
Certificates and Awards
- CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep, Chimney Safety Institute of America, 2018
- CSIA Certified Chimney Inspector, Chimney Safety Institute of America, 2019
Why this look works
Chimney sweeps are trusted professionals who enter people's homes, so your resume should project trustworthiness and professionalism. Use conservative, warm tones like deep burgundy or slate blue paired with clear fonts. Avoid anything flashy; clients want to see competence and reliability.
Resume tips for this job
- Lead with CSIA certification; it's the industry gold standard and many insurance companies require it. Mention the year you earned it prominently.
- Include your customer retention or referral rate if it's above 80%; repeat business proves you do reliable work and treat customers well.
- List specific inspection levels (Level 1, 2, 3) you're certified for; Level 3 is the most comprehensive and commands higher fees.
- Quantify inspections and cleanings, not just years of experience; employers want to know your volume and therefore your skill.
Common questions
Is CSIA certification required to work as a chimney sweep?
It's not legally required everywhere, but most professional companies require it and insurance companies prefer it. Many customers specifically hire CSIA-certified sweeps. Get certified early in your career to stand out and increase earning potential.
What should I say if I haven't done inspections yet?
Describe your cleaning experience in detail, mention you're pursuing CSIA certification, and highlight any mentorship under a certified inspector. Once certified, update immediately. Many sweeps start with cleaning and advance to inspection over 2-3 years.
How do I show I'm safe to enter customers' homes?
List your certifications, mention any background check or liability insurance coverage, and highlight customer testimonials or repeat business. A clean background and professional demeanor are as important as technical skill for a job where you work inside people's homes.
Edit this resume in the builder
The person, employers and numbers in this example are fictional, written to show what a strong resume for this job looks like.