What is an applicant tracking system?
An applicant tracking system, or ATS, is the software companies use to post jobs and handle applications. Here is what it does and why it matters for job data.
Updated
The short answer
An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software that companies use to post jobs, collect applications and pick who to hire. Workday, Greenhouse, Lever and iCIMS are well known examples. Many company career pages are powered by one.
What does an ATS do?
- Posts jobs on the company’s career page
- Collects résumés and application forms
- Helps the team sort and review people
- Tracks interviews and job offers
Why does the ATS matter for job data?
The ATS is usually where a job is first posted. That makes it the most accurate and up to date place to read the job. When a job closes, it usually disappears from the ATS first.
Which ATS platforms are common?
Big companies often use Workday, Oracle, SAP SuccessFactors or iCIMS. Growing tech companies often use Greenhouse, Lever or Ashby. Small businesses often use BambooHR, JazzHR or Breezy HR.
How does The Jobs API use ATS data?
We read the public job pages these systems publish for each employer. Then we turn every job into the same simple format, so you do not have to handle each system yourself.
Questions people ask
Is an ATS the same as a job board?
No. An ATS belongs to one company and holds its jobs. A job board shows jobs from many companies.
Which ATS platforms do you support?
Dozens, from Workday and Greenhouse to small business tools. See the full list on our sources page.