A good applicant tracking system (ATS) can seriously level up your recruitment agency.
Invest in an ATS that suits your agency's budget, size, and industry needs, and you should find that it boosts efficiency while helping you deliver a better service to both candidates and clients.
What's more, integrate your ATS with a cutting-edge recruitment analytics platform like OneUp, and you'll be empowered to make data-driven decisions that optimise your processes and drive high performance on your team.
In this guide, we'll discuss the 16 best ATS platforms for recruitment agencies today and explain what you should look for when shopping for an ATS.
What is an ATS and Why Do Recruitment Agencies Need One?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a recruitment software that helps agencies streamline hiring.
Features include automated job postings, resume parsing, AI-powered matching and search, candidate management, applicant tracking, workflow automation, collaboration, communication and compliance.
Simply put, an ATS organises candidate data, simplifies workflows, and enhances collaboration.
Key Benefits of an ATS for Agencies
An ATS optimises recruitment, making agencies more productive and competitive.
Here's how:
- Efficiency: Automates repetitive tasks, saving time.
- Better Candidate Management: Tracks applications, resumes, and interactions.
- Improved Sourcing: Integrates with job boards and social media and offers AI candidate sourcing.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Enables team communication and feedback.
- Compliance & Reporting: Ensures GDPR compliance and provides analytics.
- Faster Placements: Speeds up hiring with AI-driven matching.
7 Challenges Solved By ATS Software
In 2025, staffing and recruitment agencies have many significant challenges in common, from poor candidate sourcing and high volume of applications to compliance.
Modern ATS software comes complete with features designed to tackle these challenges head on.
Challenge 1: Time-Consuming Manual Processes
ATS software automates CV screening, job posting, and candidate tracking, reducing admin work.
Challenge 2: High Volume of Applications
Organise and filter candidates efficiently with the help of your ATS, preventing overwhelm.
Challenge 3: Poor Candidate Sourcing
Elevate your candidate sourcing with a robust ATS that integrates with job boards, social media, and AI-driven search tools for better talent discovery.
Challenge 4: Inefficient Communication
Inefficient communication can significantly lengthen time-to-hire and lead to a negative agency reputation.
ATS tools centralise emails, interview scheduling, and recruitment team collaboration, reducing delays.
Challenge 5: Compliance & Data Security
Look for an ATS that ensures GDPR compliance and protects candidate data.
Challenge 6: Slow Hiring Process
Finally, speeds up your recruitment process by investing in an ATS with automated workflows and AI-matching capabilities.
Challenge 7: Lack of Performance Insights
In 2025, recruitment performance insights are a must if you are to remain competitive.
Many ATS tools integrate with recruiting analytics software like OneUp, ensuring you have a real-time overview of performance on which to base decisions.
Key Features to Look for in the Best ATS for Recruitment Agencies
When searching for the right ATS for your agency, it's important to shop around and consider which solution will meet your needs.
Every agency will have slightly different needs depending on their size, specialism, challenges, goals, and circumstances.
But, in 2025, every agency should look for an ATS with the following five features.
#1 Automation Capabilities
Look for an ATS that automates frequent recruitment tasks, including resume parsing, job posting, and interview scheduling.
Indeed, these sophisticated tools are able to automate extracting candidate details from CVs, posting job ads across multiple platforms, and communicating with candidates and hiring managers to arrange interviews.
Investing in an ATS with automation capabilities reduces manual work, speeds up hiring, and ensures a smooth recruitment process.
#2 AI-Powered Candidate Matching
AI-powered candidate matching is one of the most useful recruitment tech developments in recent years — so you want to make the most of it.
ATS software with this feature uses AI to analyse job descriptions and candidate profiles, recommending the best-fit applicants based on skills, experience, and past placements.
The result?
Improved hiring accuracy and efficiency.
#3 Integration with CRM and HR Tools
A modern ATS will integrate with customer relationship management (CRM) systems to manage client relationships.
It also integrates with HR software for seamless onboarding, payroll, and compliance tracking, enhancing workflow efficiency and data consistency.
#4 Customisable Workflows
Choose an ATS with customisable workflows, and you can easily tailor hiring processes, from application screening to offer management.
Custom workflows ensure flexibility to match specific recruitment needs, making the ATS adaptable to different industries and roles.
This is especially helpful if you don't specialise or your agency has several different niches.
#5 Reporting and Analytics for Recruitment Performance Tracking
Look for an ATS which provides insights into key recruiting KPIs and metrics such as time-to-fill, source effectiveness, and candidate engagement.
The software may have built-in reporting capabilities or integrate with recruitment analytics tools like OneUp.
Either way, these analytics help agencies make data-driven decisions, optimise recruitment strategies, and improve overall performance.
16 Best ATS Solutions for Staffing and Recruitment Agencies in 2025
#1 JobAdder
JobAdder is a cloud-based ATS and CRM platform tailored for recruitment agencies, offering job posting, candidate management, and workflow automation.
JobAdder is perfect for recruiters who are not especially techie — it has a user-friendly interface and seamless mobile functionality.
What's more, this software integrates with 200+ job boards, meaning it's super easy to share job postings with a vast audience.
It also integrates with OneUp — a recruitment software that delivers real-time performance analytics and a world-class gamification suite — empowering agencies to simplify performance management, motivation, and reporting.
However, if you're a very small agency, JobAdder may be a bit complex for your needs.
Key features:
- Resume parsing and candidate matching
- Job posting to multiple boards
- Interview scheduling and feedback tracking
- Mobile app for managing tasks on the go
- Integration with various recruitment tools
Pricing: Custom, based on agency needs.
#2 Vincere
Vincere is a comprehensive recruitment platform that combines ATS, CRM, and automation tools to simplify recruitment.
It supports candidate sourcing, interview scheduling, and seamless communication with clients and candidates.
So, what are the pros and cons?
Vincere is a sophisticated platform with an in-built CRM, which makes it ideal for large agencies with complex needs.
However, it's important to note that this means new users will most likely require in-depth training to get the most out of the software, and it may be way more than smaller agencies need.
With Vincere, you can automate repetitive tasks, and it also has great mobile functionality, meaning you can use it on the go.
This software also integrates with OneUp, empowering you to make data-driven decisions with confidence.
Key Features:
- AI-powered candidate matching
- Job posting to multiple boards
- Multi-dimensional search tool
- Resume parsing and automated workflows
- Mobile app for on-the-go access
Pricing: Vincere offers custom pricing depending on business needs
#3 Mercury
A comprehensive solution for managing candidate sourcing, vacancy tracking, and client relationships, Mercury is a cloud-based staffing and recruitment software built on Microsoft's Dynamics 365 CRM platform.
Mercury aims to enhance efficiency and profitability for recruitment agencies.
Indeed, there are plenty of advantages to opting for Mercury — especially if you're a large agency.
Indeed, its comprehensive integrations with Microsoft applications streamline workflows and data management for Microsoft-powered businesses.
If you're unfamiliar with Microsoft platforms, however, you may need time to adapt.
This software offers customisable workflows catering to specific recruitment needs, and its OneUp integration offers real-time analytics for informed decision-making and a suite of motivational tools.
Key Features:
- Vacancy and Applicant Management, with tools for job posting, candidate tracking, and placement validation
- Advanced Search Capabilities
- Workflow Automation
- Integration with Microsoft Tools, including Outlook, Teams, and Power BI
- Mobile Accessibility
Pricing: Mercury offers customised pricing based on the specific needs and size of the recruitment agency.
#4 Bullhorn
One of the most popular ATS for recruiting agencies, Bullhorn is a cloud-based ATS and CRM designed for recruitment agencies.
It streamlines hiring by integrating candidate tracking, sales, and client management into one platform.
Bullhorn's highlights include its strong automation and AI tools, OneUp integration, and its super user-friendly interface.
It's also scalable for all agency sizes.
However, Bullhorn's complexity means it can be out of the price range of smaller agencies, while some features require additional add-ons.
Key Features:
- Automated job posting and resume parsing
- AI-powered candidate search
- Custom workflows and reporting tools
- Mobile accessibility
- Integration with third-party apps
Pricing: Custom pricing based on business needs.
#5 Zoho Recruit
Zoho Recruit is a cloud-based ATS designed for businesses of all sizes, streamlining hiring with automation, AI, and multi-channel candidate sourcing.
The advantages of choosing this platform are its user-friendly interface and strong automation and collaboration tools.
It's also super affordable for SMEs.
However, more advanced features require add-ons, and there's a learning curve for complex customisation.
Key Features:
- AI-powered talent matching
- Resume parsing and automated workflows
- Multi-channel candidate sourcing
- Real-time analytics and reporting
- Mobile access for recruitment on the go
Pricing: Offers a free plan with premium plans starting at competitive rates.
#6 Loxo
Loxo is an AI-powered Talent Intelligence Platform that combines ATS, CRM, sourcing, and automation tools into a single system for recruiters.
Highlights include advanced AI automation, strong data enrichment capabilities, and its comprehensive all-in-one platform.
What's more, a handy OneUp integration gives users access to their real-time data insights, complete with intuitive visualisations, as well as the platform's gamification suite.
However, Loxo may have a learning curve for new users.
Key Features:
- AI-driven candidate sourcing and matching
- Automated outreach campaigns
- Job posting to 30,000+ job boards
- Integrated ATS and CRM for full-cycle recruiting
- Mobile accessibility
Pricing: Custom pricing based on agency size and needs.
#7 Recruit CRM
An AI-powered recruitment software designed for staffing agencies, Recruit CRM combines advanced ATS and CRM features to streamline hiring and candidate management.
This is a highly customisable, user-friendly platform with powerful AI-driven automation and OneUp integration.
It's important to note that Recruit CRM's more advanced features can take a while to get your head around, and smaller agencies may find the price a bit steep.
Key Features:
- AI-driven resume parsing
- Job posting to multiple platforms
- Customisable hiring pipelines
- Advanced search and filtering
- Automated interview scheduling
Pricing: Custom pricing based on agency size and needs.
#8 Ceipal
Ceipal is an AI-driven ATS designed for staffing agencies, offering automation, candidate sourcing, and compliance management.
It integrates with over 50 job boards and VMS portals for enhanced recruitment efficiency.
This software comes with a broad range of integration options, robust AI and automation features, and handy compliance and credentialing tools — making it a strong choice for agencies with complex requirements.
However, smaller agencies may not need the wide range of features Ceipal offers.
Key Features:
- AI-powered candidate matching
- Automated resume harvesting
- Job posting across multiple platforms
- Custom workflows and analytics
- Candidate engagement tools
Pricing: Custom pricing based on agency needs.
#9 Avionté
Avionté is a comprehensive, cloud-based staffing software that combines ATS and CRM functionalities into one integrated platform.
Designed for recruitment agencies, it streamlines the entire hiring process — from candidate sourcing and job posting to onboarding, payroll, and billing — while utilising automation, AI, and mobile technology to enhance efficiency.
There are a number of advantages to opting for Avionté.
First up, this all-in-one solution streamlines multiple recruitment processes, boasts powerful automation and AI tools, and integrates with OneUp for real-time performance tracking.
Furthermore, Avionté's platform is nicely scalable, making it an excellent option for large and mid-sized agencies.
Small agencies, however, may find it a little complex for their requirements.
Key Features:
- Integrated ATS & CRM
- Automated candidate sourcing, resume parsing, and job posting
- AI-driven candidate matching and generative AI
- Mobile talent engagement
- Comprehensive analytics, dashboards, and reporting
- API integrations and built-in payroll/billing functionalities
Pricing: Custom pricing tailored to the agency's needs.
#10 Workable
Workable is a cloud-based recruitment platform designed to streamline the hiring process for recruitment agencies, headhunters, and talent acquisition teams.
On this sophisticated platform, you'll find a comprehensive suite of tools, including an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) functionalities, to enhance candidate sourcing, evaluation, and onboarding.
Workable is a great option if you're looking for a user-friendly interface that offers a wide range of tools — from sourcing to onboarding.
This platform is also scalable so that it can grow with your business.
However, some users may find Workable's advanced functionalities tricky to master, and the pricing may be on the high end for smaller businesses.
Key Features:
- Job posting and syndication to over 200 job boards and social media platforms
- AI-powered candidate sourcing
- Customisable workflows
- Automated interview scheduling and structured evaluation
- Mobile accessibility
Pricing: Workable offers tiered pricing plans to accommodate different organisational needs, with options for monthly or annual subscriptions.
#11 Tracker
Tracker is an all-in-one recruitment and staffing software integrating ATS and CRM functionalities.
It helps agencies manage the entire hiring process, from sourcing to placement, with AI-driven automation, job board integration, and OneUp integration for real-time data-driven decision-making.
Tracker's strong automation features, highly customisable workflows, and full pipeline management capabilities make it worth serious consideration when shopping for an ATS.
However, as with many of these sophisticated platforms, new users can expect to face a learning curve.
Key Features:
- AI-powered automation for recruitment tasks
- Customisable workflows and dashboards
- Job board and CRM integrations
- Candidate and client relationship management
- Reporting and analytics tools
Pricing: Custom pricing based on agency needs.
#12 TargetRecruit
TargetRecruit is an enterprise-grade ATS built on Salesforce, designed for staffing and recruiting firms.
It offers a highly configurable and scalable platform that integrates with CRM, payroll, reporting tools, and OneUp, making it ideal for agencies that require custom workflows and automation.
TargetRecruit is built on Salesforce, so its integrations are especially powerful, smoothing hiring processes.
It's also highly scalable and configurable for different industries.
Small agencies, however, may not need such a broad range of features.
Key Features:
- Customisable front-office recruitment workflows
- AI-driven candidate matching (TR Intelligence)
- CRM integration for enhanced relationship management
- Middle-office tools for timesheets, payroll, and billing
- Real-time reporting and dashboards
Pricing: Custom pricing.
#13 iSmartRecruit
AI-powered recruitment software iSmartRecruit is designed to streamline hiring processes for staffing agencies.
It integrates ATS and CRM capabilities, offering automation, candidate matching, and recruitment marketing tools.
The pros of choosing iSmartRecruit include its strong customer support and user-friendly interface.
However, new users can expect to experience a learning curve.
Key Features:
- AI-driven resume parsing and matching
- Customisable workflows
- Job posting to multiple channels
- Recruitment marketing tools
- Reporting and compliance tracking
Pricing: Pricing details are available upon request.
#14 Chameleon-i
A cloud-based recruitment software offering ATS and CRM functionality, Chameleon-i is designed to improve recruiter productivity via automation, customisable workflows, and seamless communication channels.
Highlights include Chameleon-i's user-friendly interface and strong automation features.
This platform is also flexible and scalable, so you can alter it to fit your agency's requirements.
However, new users may need training.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based for anywhere access
- Customisable workflows and branding
- Automated recruitment processes
- Integration with major platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, G Suite, OneUp)
- Reporting and analytics
Pricing: Custom pricing with a 30-day free trial available.
#15 Seven20
Seven20 is a cloud-based ATS offering a streamlined recruitment process.
It integrates CRM and automation tools to simplify candidate sourcing, management, and job placement.
This platform is designed for high productivity with custom workflows and dynamic lists.
If your agency is looking for a highly customisable platform with advanced filtering and search, and automated workflows that drive efficiency, Seven20 could be the right platform for you.
It also boasts OneUp integration, giving you access to real-time data insights and a suite of gamification tools to motivate your recruitment team.
Pricing: Custom pricing.
Key Features:
- AI-driven candidate matching
- Dynamic and hotlists for better management
- Boolean, global, and smart search options
- Automated email tracking and interview scheduling
- CV parsing and job management tools
#16 Spark Hire
A great option for medium-sized businesses, Spark Hire is a video interviewing and ATS software designed to improve the hiring process through AI, automation, and streamlined workflows.
It helps organisations screen candidates, conduct video interviews, and assess talent more efficiently.
Spark Hire contributes to smooth recruitment processes with its user-friendly interface and integrations with other ATS software.
Furthermore, Spark Hire could be a great fit for you if your goal is to enhance team collaboration.
Key Features:
- Video interview solutions (one-way and live)
- Predictive talent assessments
- Automated reference checks
- AI-assisted workflows and interview scheduling
- Reporting and analytics
Pricing: Custom pricing based on needs.
How to Choose the Best ATS for Your Recruitment Agency
So, you know your recruitment agency needs a robust ATS, but what exactly should you be looking for?
There are three main factors here:
- Budget
- Agency size
- Industry needs
Budget is crucial — agencies must balance cost with essential features.
When it comes to company size, a small agency may prefer a cost-effective, user-friendly ATS, while larger firms may need advanced automation and integrations.
Industry-specific needs also matter; for instance, healthcare or IT recruitment may require compliance tracking or candidate skill assessments.
Ready to sign on the dotted line?
Wait just one minute — before purchasing, agencies should ask ATS vendors about:
- Scalability
- Integration with existing tools
- Customisation options
- Data security measures
- Pricing structures (make sure there are no hidden fees)
It's also worth looking out for an ATS with a trial period.
This will help you to assess ease of use, key functionalities, and customer support.
Top tip — engaging recruiters in testing your new ATS ensures the system meets real-world hiring demands.
How OneUp Can Help
Integrate your ATS with recruitment analytics platform OneUp to enhance functionality.
OneUp acts as a single source of truth for all your information, pulling real-time data from across your tech stack (including your ATS and CRM) to populate custom dashboards and reports.
When you view your real-time ATS data on OneUp, it's easy to gain key insights on recruitment performance metrics via beautiful, intuitive visualisations and comparisons with other data sets.
It's super easy to drill down into the data behind the results to identify bottlenecks in your processes or areas for improvement, and then take swift action to optimise hiring.
Fortunately, OneUp integrates with a wide range of ATS solutions, including:
- JobAdder
- Chameleon-i
- Seven20
- Tracker
- Avionté
- Vincere
- Mercury
- Bullhorn
- RecruitCRM
Conclusion
To recap, if your recruitment agency is looking for a strong ATS, it's worth taking a look at the following solutions:
- JobAdder
- Vincere
- Mercury
- Bullhorn
- Zoho Recruit
- Loxo
- RecruitCRM
- Ceipal
- Avionté
- Workable
- Tracker
- TargetRecruit
- iSmartRecruit
- Chamelion-i
- Seven20
- Spark Hire
Choosing an ATS is not a decision to be taken lightly — after all, it's a big investment.
Indeed, selecting the right ATS is key to your agency's growth.
The right system for you will streamline workflows, enhance candidate experience, and improve efficiency — helping you place top talent faster.
Don't settle for less: choose an ATS that scales with your needs and fuels your success in a competitive recruitment landscape.
Whichever ATS you select, you'll need a strong recruitment analytics tool like OneUp to empower you to track key ATS metrics and make game-changing, data-driven decisions.
To find out more about how OneUp's recruitment analytics can level up your agency's growth, book a demo today.
