Recruiting Software Directory
Educational comparison of open-source and SaaS applicant tracking systems (ATS). Find the right recruiting software for your organization with neutral, factual information.
Why Choose Open-Source Recruiting Software?
Open-source recruiting software provides organizations with complete control over their applicant tracking system (ATS) without recurring subscription fees. Unlike proprietary SaaS platforms, open-source solutions allow full customization, data ownership, and deployment flexibility.
This directory features 8 actively-maintained open-source recruiting systems, including OpenCATS, Odoo Recruitment, ERPNext (Frappe HR), and OrangeHRM. Each system is evaluated based on features, deployment requirements, technical complexity, and ideal use cases.
We also explain the conceptual differences between self-hosted open-source systems and managed SaaS platforms like Flowxtra, helping you make informed decisions based on your organization's technical capabilities, budget, and customization needs.
Open-Source Recruiting Software
8 actively-maintained open-source ATS systems with full source code access
OpenCATS
Mature open-source ATS for staffing agencies and HR departments
OpenCATS is one of the most mature open-source Applicant Tracking Systems available. Originally designed for the staffing industry, it has evolved into a robust solution for both internal HR departments and recruitment agencies. It is a stable, "classic" web application that provides deep functionality for managing large candidate databases.
Key Features:
- •Candidate Database
- •Resume Parsing
- •Pipelines & Workflows
FreeATS
Modern lightweight open-source ATS with visual workflows
FreeATS is a lightweight, strictly open-source ATS that focuses on simplicity and speed, offering a cleaner interface than older legacy systems. It is designed to be "up and running" quickly with a modern, visual drag-and-drop board for moving candidates between stages.
Key Features:
- •Kanban Pipeline
- •Career Site Generator
- •Resume Parsing
SpotAxis
Open-source recruiting platform with advanced automation
SpotAxis is an open-source recruiting platform that emphasizes automation and workflow efficiency. It provides tools for managing the entire recruitment lifecycle with a focus on reducing manual tasks through intelligent automation.
Key Features:
- •Automated Workflows
- •Multi-channel Job Posting
- •Candidate Scoring
Tautuk
Lightweight open-source ATS for small teams
Tautuk is a lightweight, easy-to-deploy open-source ATS designed specifically for small teams and startups. It focuses on simplicity and ease of use, providing essential recruiting features without overwhelming complexity.
Key Features:
- •Simple Candidate Management
- •Job Posting
- •Application Forms
ERPNext (Frappe HR)
Comprehensive open-source ERP with built-in recruiting module
ERPNext is a full-featured open-source ERP system that includes a comprehensive HR module with recruiting capabilities. Part of the Frappe framework, it offers recruiting as one component of a complete business management suite, making it ideal for organizations that need both HR and broader business management tools.
Key Features:
- •Job Opening Management
- •Job Applicant Tracking
- •Staffing Plans
OrangeHRM
Popular open-source HR management system with recruiting module
OrangeHRM is one of the most widely-used open-source HR management systems globally. While primarily an HRIS, it includes a recruitment module that handles job postings, candidate tracking, and interview management as part of a comprehensive HR suite.
Key Features:
- •Job Vacancy Management
- •Candidate Database
- •Application Tracking
Odoo Recruitment
Modern open-source ERP with powerful recruitment application
Odoo is a comprehensive open-source business management suite that includes a modern, feature-rich Recruitment application. Known for its clean interface and modular architecture, Odoo Recruitment offers professional-grade recruiting tools as part of a larger ecosystem of business applications.
Key Features:
- •Job Position Management
- •Application Pipeline
- •Resume Parsing
WP Job Manager
WordPress plugin for job board and basic applicant tracking
WP Job Manager is a lightweight WordPress plugin that transforms any WordPress site into a job board with basic applicant tracking capabilities. It is ideal for organizations already using WordPress who need simple job posting and application management without a full-featured ATS.
Key Features:
- •Job Listings
- •Application Forms
- •Application Management
SaaS Recruiting Platforms
Cloud-managed recruiting software with zero technical setup required
Flowxtra
Cloud-based ATS with unlimited free job postings
Flowxtra is a cloud-based Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and talent management platform designed to eliminate the technical complexity of self-hosted recruiting software. It operates on a freemium model, offering unlimited job postings even on the free tier, with paid plans unlocking advanced features like multi-office management, analytics, and employee onboarding. The platform emphasizes ease of use and immediate deployment—users can start recruiting within minutes without server setup, database configuration, or ongoing maintenance.
Key Features:
- •Unlimited Job Postings
- •Multiposting
- •CV Parsing
What to Look for in Recruiting Software
Core ATS Features
- • Job posting management
- • Candidate database
- • Application tracking
- • Interview scheduling
- • Email integration
- • Reporting & analytics
Deployment Options
- • Self-hosted (on-premises)
- • Cloud-managed (SaaS)
- • Hybrid deployment
- • Docker containers
- • Shared hosting
- • Dedicated servers
Integration Capabilities
- • Email systems (SMTP)
- • Calendar integration
- • Job boards (LinkedIn, Indeed)
- • HRIS systems
- • Background check services
- • API access
Frequently Asked Questions
What is free recruiting software?
Free recruiting software includes open-source Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that organizations can download, install, and use without licensing fees. These systems help manage job postings, candidate applications, interviews, and hiring workflows. Examples include OpenCATS, Odoo Recruitment, and ERPNext.
What is the difference between open-source and SaaS recruiting software?
Open-source recruiting software is self-hosted, requires technical setup, and offers full customization of source code. SaaS (Software as a Service) recruiting platforms are cloud-hosted, require no technical setup, and are managed by the vendor with subscription-based pricing. Open-source provides control and customization, while SaaS offers convenience and managed infrastructure.
Which open-source ATS is best for small businesses?
We do not rank or declare "best" software. However, lightweight options like Tautuk and FreeATS are designed specifically for small teams with limited technical resources. Each organization should evaluate based on their specific needs, technical capabilities, and budget. Consider factors like ease of setup, documentation quality, and community support.
Can I customize open-source recruiting software?
Yes, open-source recruiting software provides full access to source code, allowing complete customization of features, workflows, and integrations. This requires technical expertise in the relevant programming languages (PHP, Python, JavaScript, etc.). Popular systems like Odoo and ERPNext have extensive plugin ecosystems for adding functionality without modifying core code.
Do I need technical expertise to use open-source ATS?
Yes, most open-source recruiting software requires technical knowledge for initial setup, server configuration, database management, and ongoing maintenance. Organizations without IT resources may prefer managed SaaS platforms. However, some open-source systems offer Docker containers or one-click installers to simplify deployment.
Submit Your Open-Source Recruiting Software
Know an open-source ATS that should be listed? We review all submissions for active development, licensing, and recruiting functionality.
Submit SoftwareLast updated: 2026