How do I write a resume when I am overqualified for the job?

There are often many reasons why a person may want to apply to a job for which they are overqualified.  It may be because they are interested in the specific company or organization and want to join the team; it may be because they enjoy being an individual contributor as opposed to a leader or manager of people; they may see better growth opportunities in the future; or they may be out of a job, and this is the best they can find.

For whatever reason, the best way to approach this type of job is by keeping your resume simple.  Focus on listing only those skills and credentials that directly tie to the job description.  Do not detail every skill that you have - especially if the prior duties exceeded those of the job to which you are applying.   Simply match your experience to the job description.  Also, it is possible to leave off some prior jobs - especially if they are not relevant.  And any additional education or degrees that are not pertinent to the job may be eliminated as well.  

Format your resume around functional skills, and only chronological prior jobs that are specific to the position at hand.  In the Job Objective/Personal Statement, at the top of the resume, while often unnecessary and redundant, you should include the exact position title of the job you are seeking so that both the recruiter and ATS system will recognize you as a prospective interested candidate.  This short description should be placed strategically so that it is clear why you are seeking a lower-level position.  For example:

After being in a Senior HR management role for several years, I am hoping to transition to a Director of Recruiting position where I will have more face-to-face experience with individuals applying for jobs.  The combination of my HR experience along with successfully attracting candidates to my company, made me realize that my strengths and interest are best-suited to a position in Talent Acquisition and Recruiting.  The position at XYZ company is ideal and one where I believe I will add immediate value.

Then include relevant experience and skills in a short list.

Overqualified professionals often get overlooked because the hiring company is worried about the sincerity of your interest a/o longevity at the company.  So, in order to retain their interest, de-emphasize excessive details, senior titles or superfluous language.  Keep it simple.  Your Cover Letter would be the best place to further explain the reason for your interest and why such a move makes sense to you.  And ultimately, you will have a lengthier, planned conversation in the interview, so that the Recruiter will not be concerned about hiring someone overly experienced.  In the end, being honest about your true reasons for your interest in the job is the best policy.