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Computer engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

6 min read

Quoted experts

Anthony Baron,

Anthony Baron

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical computer engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for computer engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 14.7% of computer engineer resumes contained python as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a computer engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 computer engineer skills for your resume and career

1. Python

Python is a widely-known programming language. It is an object-oriented and all-purpose, coding language that can be used for software development as well as web development.

Here's how computer engineers use python:

Developed Python HMI for a PLC program control software management system using Eclipse Java IDE, PyDev plug-in and GIT.
Developed image processing algorithms by using Python and OpenCV package, including image feature matching, and object tracking.

2. Software Development

Software development is the mechanism by which programmers create computer programs. The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a framework for developing applications that follow technological needs and consumer requirements. It consists of many stages. The SDLC establishes an international standard that software developers can use to enhance and create their programs. It provides a well-defined framework for software developers to pursue in the production, maintenance, and design of premium quality software. The aim of the software development process is to create high-quality software on time and within budget.

Here's how computer engineers use software development:

Project leader for software development to computerize and automate gasoline service stations.
Performed software development, integration, tuning and statistical data analysis.

3. 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 computer engineers use java:

Designed and implemented a UDP based protocol for streaming transfer of audio data from the server to client using Java.
Develop applications on Android platform using the Java programming language, Android framework and API.

4. 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 computer engineers use linux:

Tested large-scale classified software application running on multiple operating systems including Microsoft Windows and Red Hat Linux.
Conducted stress tests on Linux computers to diagnose which ATX cables were most taxed with electric consumption.

5. C

Here's how computer engineers use c:

Developed microprocessor control programs in C language.
Designed and modified software to control X-ray gauges and other equipment in real time using C, Assembly and Quick Basic.

6. 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 computer engineers use c++:

Implemented a conversion of numerous insurance companies' forms into one system while programming in both a Unix & C++ environment.
Analyzed, created and maintained publishing software for an automated manual system using C++ (HP-UNIX).

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7. DOD

Definition of Done (DoD) is a set of deliverables that are needed to devise software. These deliverables are valuable to the system and can be exemplified by writing code, coding comments, unit testing, integration testing, design documents, release notes, and so on.

Here's how computer engineers use dod:

Ensured the DoD systems operated with an acceptable level of risk utilizing Security Readiness Review scripts to identify potential network vulnerabilities.
Developed major data dictionary entries identifying element characteristics, and mapping the elements to DOD standards.

8. 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 computer engineers use database:

Accomplished relational database administration and implementation.
Designed and implemented hardware and software improvements including developing interfaces between meteorological towers and process computer database and displays.

9. MATLAB

Here's how computer engineers use matlab:

Created an attendance system based on real time face detection & recognition algorithm using MATLAB tools.
Utilized MATLAB for rapid algorithm development and testing as well as data analysis.

10. Software Systems

Software system is a system of components that form the software part of a computer. The major categories of software systems include application, programming, and system software.

Here's how computer engineers use software systems:

Developed and maintained software systems to model computer communication networks and electronic semi-conductor packaging modules.
Designed and configured data acquisition software systems for MTN Telecommunication Company in Nigeria.

11. Computer System

Here's how computer engineers use computer system:

Worked with process computer systems developing specialized computer application and process control programs for the UNIPOL polyethylene and polypropylene processes.
Prepared technical specifications and evaluated contractor proposals for computer systems, subsystems, facilities, and equipment.

12. Troubleshoot

Troubleshooting is the process of analyzing and fixing any kind of problem in a system or a machine. Troubleshooting is the detailed yet quick search in the system for the main source of an issue and solving it.

Here's how computer engineers use troubleshoot:

Defined and documented physical prototype configurations, troubleshoot mechanisms, algorithms and code.
Helped students troubleshoot basic circuit problems and understanding concepts.

13. Application Development

Here's how computer engineers use application development:

Leveraged my extensive application development experience to drive application architecture and development choices.
Serve as a technical resource for problem resolution and application development.

14. OS

In technical terms, OS stands for "Operating System". It is a software that is used to run programs on the computer. An operating system acts as a link between the user and the hardware components. Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux are examples of an operating system.

Here's how computer engineers use os:

Installed SQL Server on Microsoft Windows Server operating system (OS) for client computers to interface with on a network.
Provided desktop support on an as needed basis for the lab, fixing hardware, software and OS issues.

15. Cloud Computing

Here's how computer engineers use cloud computing:

Implemented and managed cloud computing environments such as IaaS and SaaS on Microsoft Azure, GoDaddy, and Amazon AWS.
Designed products, offerings and technologies relating to cloud computing and virtualization along with IT engineering teams.

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What skills help Computer Engineers find jobs?

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

What skills stand out on computer engineer resumes?

Anthony Baron

Teaching Assistant, Associate Software Engineer, American University

For new graduates, the main skills that stand would definitely include which programming languages (Java, JavaScript, Python, etc.) have been used along with a depth of knowledge, which frameworks and libraries (React, Django, Flask, etc.) were used throughout projects and internships, and showing work experience. Most introductory and required courses will teach programming languages but do not always teach frameworks, which is why I would always recommend people to do personal projects and internships throughout college. Many positions at the entry-level are often very general. However, positions that are looking for specifics will look for certain skills and experience. For example, positions looking more towards web development would be more interested in whether a user used frameworks used to build websites. Showing leadership and trustworthiness is also a helpful skill to stand out via work experience and university clubs.

What soft skills should all computer engineers possess?

Anthony Baron

Teaching Assistant, Associate Software Engineer, American University

The main soft skills I would say are needed for Computer Science software engineering are patience, perseverance, creativity, respect, teamwork, and openness to learning and teaching. Programming involves a lot of trial and error, researching, and learning better techniques for solving a problem. Due to this, patience and perseverance to reach the final goal in mind are crucial. When it comes to the learning aspect, there are many languages, frameworks, and libraries, and working with them involves a steeper learning curve than others. On top of this, there are often more elegant ways to program a solution, and many new frameworks and libraries are released throughout the industry. This is where patience and perseverance is also a virtue. Lastly, programming and creating a product are often done in teams, where working together and learning from each other is important.

What hard/technical skills are most important for computer engineers?

Anthony Baron

Teaching Assistant, Associate Software Engineer, American University

The main technical/ hard skills, I would say, are mainly the same as in part 1. Another hard skill that will come through with experience in programming is learning how to Google, more specifically knowing exactly what to search to solve an issue in the code.

What computer engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Dr. Darshika Perera Ph.D.

Associate Professor, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs

In the realm of computer engineering, embedded systems design and digital systems design will become more important and prevalent. Students have to learn the state-of-the-art techniques to design embedded systems, which includes programming the embedded microprocessor/microcontrollers using embedded programming such as embedded C, in order to interface with the associated hardware such as sensors and actuators, and also to design corresponding hardware circuits. It is also imperative for the students to learn the state-of-the-art techniques and skills to design digital circuits, using hardware-description languages (HDL) such as Verilog and VHDL. Digital circuit designs, including programmable logic such as FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), are becoming very popular among the industry for various applications.

What type of skills will young computer engineers need?

Joshua Davis Ph.D.

Lecturer, Carleton College

Studying mathematics is good practice for rigorous thinking and problem solving, which are valued across the workforce. For science and engineering applications, it is often also helpful to have R, Python, Matlab, or another popular programming language. But technical abilities get the graduate-only so far. They need interpersonal communication skills so that they can understand the needs of stakeholders and cooperate with colleagues. For this reason, many faculty at my school emphasize writing, speaking, listening, and teamwork skills.

What technical skills for a computer engineer stand out to employers?

Chirag Parikh Ph.D.

Computer Engineering Chair, Grand Valley State University

If you ask me, I consider valuable experience over good paycheck. Once you have gained that experience the paycheck will follow. As soon as you are out of college, the knowledge gained is very fresh and raring to go. If put into the right place can enhance your technical skills and you can do wonders.
As a Computer Engineering professor, I would say the job opportunities are tremendous for students out of college as they can venture into hardware field (technical support, hardware engineer, test engineer and much more) as well as software field (software engineer, software developer, software tester and much more). The possibilities are endless.
With COVID and employees working remotely there is still ample opportunity to enhance your technical and interpersonal skills as I believe remote working might stay for a while till things get back to normal.

Do you want to know more?

List of computer engineer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a computer engineer resume and required skills for a computer engineer to have include:

Python
Software Development
Java
Linux
C
C++
DOD
Database
MATLAB
Software Systems
Computer System
Troubleshoot
Application Development
OS

Cloud Computing
Visualization
Azure
Debugging
RF
Software Applications
Technical Support
CAD
Embedded Systems
VMware
Enterprise Architecture
PC
Emerging Technologies
Android

PowerPoint
Perl
GPS
Unix
Virtualization
FPGA
JavaScript
Mac
CPU
TCP/IP
Fortran
Jenkins
Regression

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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