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Applications programmer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

5 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical applications programmer skills. We ranked the top skills for applications programmers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 9.0% of applications programmer resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills an applications programmer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 applications programmer skills for your resume and career

1. Java

Java is a widely-known programming language that was invented in 1995 and is owned by Oracle. It is a server-side language that was created to let app developers "write once, run anywhere". It is easy and simple to learn and use and is powerful, fast, and secure. This object-oriented programming language lets the code be reused that automatically lowers the development cost. Java is specially used for android apps, web and application servers, games, database connections, etc. This programming language is closely related to C++ making it easier for the users to switch between the two.

Here's how applications programmers use java:

Developed the Java Application for company transaction process using thread, serialization.
Developed Java application for synchronizing student photos between two enterprise apps.

2. C++

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that is used to create high-performing applications. It was invented as an extension to the C language. C++ lets the programmer have a high level of domination over memory and system resources. C++ is an object-oriented language that helps you implement real-time issues based on different data functions

Here's how applications programmers use c++:

Design, code and test custom route accounting software using C, C++, Visual Basic, and PL/N programming languages.
Developed scheduling software for the hotel and convention center industry using Delphi (Pascal), SQL, and C++.

3. Database

A database is a collection of data and information which makes it easy to view, access, and manage. Databases save a lot of time and can store huge amounts of data. Databases make sorting data easier and stores it in certain fields which narrows the searching criteria. A database usually contains tables, graphs, and columns to display data.

Here's how applications programmers use database:

Designed and implemented PL/SQL programs and database applications in an integrated, open-systems environment using relational database and client-server technology.
Served on committees as departmental representative to provide input and representation in the decision-making process regarding database related topics.

4. JavaScript

Here's how applications programmers use javascript:

Developed the front-end validations using JavaScript.
Developed the user functionality using utilizing ColdFusion MX, FuseBox and DHTML (HTML, JavaScript and CSS) technologies.

5. HTML

Here's how applications programmers use html:

Improved User Experience by merging Library page with Orders page and removing extraneous fields using HTML and CSS3.
Coded and modified CICS maps and programs utilizing JCL, SQL, and HTML in TSO/IBM mainframe environment.

6. SQL Server

Here's how applications programmers use sql server:

Administer SQL Server database security and database maintenance.
Install, configure, and maintain Windows 2000 Server, Windows SQL Server, Industrial SQL Server and Windows 2003 Server.

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7. Web Application

Here's how applications programmers use web application:

Design, construction and maintenance of internal administrative web applications within the Department of Psychology.
Transitioned 10 legacy Windows applications into automated intranet web applications, improving collection efficiency.

8. CSS

Here's how applications programmers use css:

Used CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) and Themes to maintain design consistency across all web forms.
Created and Modified CSS style sheets to make the UI look consistent across the application.

9. MVC

Model-View-Controller (MVC) refers to the method of software development for creating user interfaces.

Here's how applications programmers use mvc:

Lead developer for several large ASP.net (C#) MVC applications and Database development projects utilizing SSIS and SSRS.
Implemented Model View Controller (MVC) architecture for an efficient implementation of interface with the application logic.

10. Object Oriented Programming

Here's how applications programmers use object oriented programming:

Programmed with C# to develop the Business logic, where in extensively implemented the Object Oriented Programming methodologies.
Used Object Oriented Programming extensively in the Business Logic Layer.

11. JQuery

Here's how applications programmers use jquery:

Implemented with ruby 2.1, MySQL, Rails 4, jQuery and thoroughly tested all code with Test::Unit.
Converted legacy web-form ASP.net application for Member Contact information to AngularJS & JQuery.

12. Windows

Windows is a chain of operating systems that controls a computer and is developed by Microsoft. Every version of Windows consists of GUI (graphical user interface), with a desktop that allows the user to open their files.

Here's how applications programmers use windows:

Developed and designed customized look and feel templates for deployment within Windows desktop and web-based applications.
Designed and developed standalone Windows applications to accompany custom-manufactured fruit sorting systems.

13. Linux

Linux is a Unix-like operating system. Just like Windows, Mac OS, and IOS, Linux is an operating system used by millions across the globe. Android itself is powered by the Linux operating system. Linux manages all the hardware resources that are associated with your computer. The software is famous because of the protection it grants from viruses, malware, and crashes. The Linux operating system is entirely free and is an open-source software meaning it can be altered by those equipped with the knowledge to code.

Here's how applications programmers use linux:

Involved in the complete deployment activity in delivering the new versions of the application on Linux Servers.
Maintain, configure and deploy new Linux Web Servers for testing and production and testing.

14. Web Services

A web service is software that is available on the internet and uses a specific messaging system. A web service is a kind of service that is not bound to any specific programming language or operating system. Web services help every device to communicate over the world wide web.

Here's how applications programmers use web services:

Performed and led the technical design and development of complex web services application systems using existing and emerging technology platforms.
Developed web service application for accessing real-time call center information.

15. PHP

PHP, the abbreviation for hypertext preprocessor, is a scripted language used in websites to manage content.

Here's how applications programmers use php:

Developed a web content management system allowing alumni to continue communication after graduation (PHP & MySQL).
Maintain and debug current legacy software applications in PHP, C#, BASH, MySql.

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What skills help Applications Programmers find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on applications programmer resumes?

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.

Professor, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Director, Montana Engineering Education Research Center (MEERC), Montana State University

All companies are looking for some experience beyond the classrooms. This can be through internships or doing research at their universities. But students still need to show an acceptable GPA to show employers that they understand the fundamentals of their discipline.

What soft skills should all applications programmers possess?

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Associate Professor of CIS, J. Bradley Oxley Professor of Computer Information Systems, University of Tulsa

All the soft skills are important, but a few are absolutely critical in today's hybrid workforce. With the uncertainty of COVID delaying the return to the office, many companies are embracing hybrid work and/or 100% remote for some or all of their employees. Today's employees must be able to effectively communicate over a range of different modalities, both synchronously and asynchronously, while still being able to actively build and maintain relationships as they participate in one or more teams of coworkers, customers, and other stakeholders. Today's IT workers need to be honest with themselves on the work environments they can and cannot succeed within.

What hard/technical skills are most important for applications programmers?

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Associate Professor of CIS, J. Bradley Oxley Professor of Computer Information Systems, University of Tulsa

Students graduating with Information Systems and related degrees usually have little problem finding employment upon graduation. However, the pandemic upended that paradigm for some. For those who recently graduated and are still looking for employment, keep the faith and develop your technical skills. Developers should show prospective employers that they are familiar with agile programming methodologies and modern DevOps stacks and processes. Data analysts should be focused on presenting their ability to work with structured and unstructured data, effectively query data using SQL & NoSQL, and, most importantly, provide actionable insight by making data accessible and relatable to decision-makers at all levels of an organization. Those interested in cloud architecture and cyber security careers have to keep current on their skills and certifications. Cloud engineers need to stay aware of the constant changes happening at the major providers (AWS, Azure, GCP) and, as with all other IT fields, provide tangible evidence of your skills via real projects that you have worked on. Prospective cyber security analysts should first focus on identifying their first specialization because there are too many security roles to learn them all at once, especially as beginners. Two popular entry-level cyber security jobs include information security consultant and Security Operations Center (SOC). Both of these roles require a sound foundation in networking fundamentals, vulnerability identification and mitigation, and an understanding of organizationally relevant security and privacy frameworks and regulations.

What applications programmer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Dr. Tao Ju

Vice Dean for Research & Professor, Washington University in St. Louis

Graduates should research their targeted industries, companies and positions to identify which skills are in highest demand. Every job description has required qualifications and a desired qualifications section. The focus should be on trying to develop those desired qualifications. This could include learning a new programming language or working towards a certification (EIT, LEED, Six Sigma, etc.). Having said that, the specific skills themselves are less important than demonstrating the drive, passion and curiosity to continue developing. Do something. Take a course, volunteer, take on a short-term project, or teach yourself new software. The more graduates have developed their technical and transferable skills (leadership, communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem solving, etc.), the more competitive they will be as they enter the job market, and the quicker they will make a difference in an organization.

What type of skills will young applications programmers need?

Dr. Ted Junseok Song

Associate Professor of Engineering, John Brown University

As it always has been, the ability to communicate with others would be a critical skill for college graduates. Additionally, it will be more necessary for professionals to work cross-culturally, as the U.S. is becoming more diverse.

What technical skills for an applications programmer stand out to employers?

Bob Sweeney Ph.D.

Associate Professor, University of South Alabama

Strong database skills including big data and SQL are always valued by local employers hiring our IS majors. While not technical, written and verbal communications skills are always important.

Do you want to know more?

List of applications programmer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for an applications programmer resume and required skills for an applications programmer to have include:

Java
C++
Database
JavaScript
HTML
SQL Server
Web Application
CSS
MVC
Object Oriented Programming
JQuery
Windows
Linux
Web Services
PHP

Development Life
Debugging
Unix
Ajax
Front End
J2EE
SDLC
Version Control
UI
Jenkins
Web Application Development
SVN
Strong Analytical
Design Patterns
COBOL

C Net
Perl
Eclipse
Management System
Azure
ETL
Regression
PL/SQL
ASP
Microsoft Visual Studio
JSP
DB2
Test Cases
Oracle Sql
PC

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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