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Head engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025
7 min read
Quoted experts
Charles Jenckes,
Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer
Below we've compiled a list of the most critical head engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for head engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 11.5% of head engineer resumes contained cloud as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a head engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 head engineer skills for your resume and career

1. Cloud

Cloud is a server that is accessed over the internet. There are different programs and software that also run on these servers. These clouds can be accessed from anywhere in the world as they are not present in your computer storage, but have their online servers. Cloud consists of data centers all across the world.

Here's how head engineers use cloud:
  • Head of Cloud Engineering for Goldfish, a Target Innovation Company.
  • Restructured the organization for agile delivery to demanding, dynamic business needs and resiliency with a cloud delivery model.

2. 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 head engineers use java:
  • Introduced a Java web services based middle tier using Hibernate and Spring framework.
  • Designed and Implemented component based framework for rapid development of JAVA screens.

3. AWS

Here's how head engineers use aws:
  • Streamline and maintain the infrastructure on AWS using Chef, Puppet and Vagrant for dev environments.
  • Developed holistic understanding of application architectures in AWS and devised ideal principles for security and high availability.

4. 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 head engineers use software development:
  • Head of Engineering Projects for IT systems, Data Centers and software development.
  • Managed software development for MTI's InmarSat Standard B terminal.

5. Project Management

Here's how head engineers use project management:
  • Coordinated and attended meetings with the project management and main contractor for proper scheduling and co-ordination of construction.
  • Participated in Foreign Military Sales (FMS) project management, including C4I training efforts in Iraq.

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 head engineers use c++:
  • Designed, developed and coded a highly complex algorithm for controlling laser uniformity using MS Visual C++.
  • Used C++ language to program and develop network applications for communication between different offices and for everyday office documentation maintenance.

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7. API

Here's how head engineers use api:
  • Managed and maintained development of PHP backend for dynamic database driven website with Facebook Graph API and LinkedIn API.
  • Lead the development of LunchBadger API Platform, Express Gateway and Deployment Platform of Docker Containers to Kubernetes Cluster.

8. Product Development

Product development is the complete procedure of creating a product from concept until release of the final product. Product development has many stages after which a product is released into the market. Identifying the need, creating the opportunity, conceptualizing a product, and providing a solution, all are different stages of product development.

Here's how head engineers use product development:
  • Introduced optimal processes to bring in velocity and quality in product development.
  • Participated in technology evaluation for next generation product development.

9. HR

HR stands for human resources and is used to describe the set of people who work for a company or an organization. HR responsibilities revolve around updating employee records and carrying out management processes like planning, recruitment, evaluation, and selection processes. HR is a key contributor to any company or organization's growth as they are in charge of hiring the right employees, processing payrolls, conducting disciplinary actions, etc.

Here's how head engineers use hr:
  • Managed a staff of 20 people, oversaw HR training, coaching, mentoring and staff restoration.
  • Build 2 datacenters, consolidate 20 sites and merge HR, finance, email and ERP systems.

10. Continuous Improvement

Continuous improvement is an ongoing process of improvement of products, services, and processes with the help of innovative ideas. It is an organized approach that helps an organization to find its weaknesses and improve them.

Here's how head engineers use continuous improvement:
  • Guided continuous improvement and error cause removal efforts across departments for quality control and productivity improvements.
  • Promote continuous process improvement, tools and processes.

11. Microservices

Microservice is an application architecture in which a large application or software project is broken into loosely coupled service components that communicate with each other through Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) compared to traditional monolithic architecture.

Here's how head engineers use microservices:
  • Developed MicroServices using Spring Boot technology.
  • Experience in creating JSON files that mock the microservices locally.

12. Emerging Technologies

Here's how head engineers use emerging technologies:
  • Advised executive leadership team on industry trends and emerging technologies to maintain competitive edge within the market.
  • Established excellent working relationships with key individuals at leading infrastructure providers to maintain effective insight about applications and emerging technologies.

13. 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 head engineers use database:
  • UkraineReviewed and developed technical documentation, maintained database using MS Access.
  • Team performed extensive testing including front-end, database, system, performance, load, application deployment/fallback and system scratch installation.

14. R

R is a free software environment and a language used by programmers for statistical computing. The R programming language is famously used for data analysis by data scientists.

Here's how head engineers use r:
  • Awarded the Edward R Murrow award for best newscast.
  • Assisted in coordination of efforts to obtain the corporate R Stamp, a QC program to assure Code weld repair integrity.

15. QA

QA, or Quality Assurance is a procedure that entails all of the steps taken to avoid any errors in the manufacturing process or in the production of the goods that a company produces. It can also include ensuring the consistency of the services rendered. Quality assurance ensures that the quality of the service delivered to consumers meets or exceeds the promised expectations. This greatly aids in the prevention of any complications that might arise after the goods or services have been distributed. It makes sure that customers are satisfied.

Here's how head engineers use qa:
  • Reviewed and analyzed daily line problems requiring engineering attention such as low yield and QA reject verification and give timely disposition.
  • Worked together with QA department and GMPD to provide technical sound solutions on material delivery improvements and material related process improvements.
top-skills

What skills help Head Engineers find jobs?

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

What skills stand out on head engineer resumes?

Charles Jenckes

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

For new graduates
1.Where the candidate went to school and what was studied
2.GPA
3.Any successful internships
4.Projects completed by the student

What soft skills should all head engineers possess?

Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer

Professor and Chair, Xavier University

Communication, teamwork.

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

Dr. Heidrun Schmitzer

Professor and Chair, Xavier University

Depends on the engineering career, but in general, an ability to know how to use design software, measurement/testing, and analysis equipment, in addition to prototyping and fabrication tools

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

Dr. Sridhar Santhanam Ph.D.Dr. Sridhar Santhanam Ph.D. LinkedIn profile

Professor and Chair, Villanova University

In a gap year, graduates could consider retooling themselves by acquiring advanced knowledge and skills. Graduate school provides a perfect avenue for this. Enrolling in a Masters's program that aligns with one's interests and aptitudes can be an excellent investment. Many graduate schools also offer shorter certificate programs targeted to specific sub-disciplines within mechanical engineerings, such as robotics, sustainable energy, or additive manufacturing. Certificates can be obtained in a calendar year, or less, and can significantly bolster one's resume in preparation for exploring the job market after the gap year. Several programs offer online graduate classes, thereby providing convenience and accessibility to students.

What type of skills will young head engineers need?

John RingJohn Ring LinkedIn profile

Director Engineering Outreach, Elon University

While our universities consistently educate engineering students with hard skills and strong engineering fundamentals, tomorrow's engineers need to be strong communicators, collaborators, and critical thinkers. Our professional environments are filled with data and information, and the constraint is typically how much time individuals can dedicate to solving a problem. At Elon University, we educate tomorrow's engineers to have the hard skills necessary to analyze the information and situations, apply critical thinking techniques to determine ways to solve the issue, and then concisely and efficiently communicate with colleagues as solutions are being set in motion.

List of head engineer skills to add to your resume

Head engineer skills

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

  • Cloud
  • Java
  • AWS
  • Software Development
  • Project Management
  • C++
  • API
  • Product Development
  • HR
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Microservices
  • Emerging Technologies
  • Database
  • R
  • QA
  • Ruby
  • SEO
  • Direct Reports
  • Mobile Development
  • Business Development
  • Unified Communications
  • Amazon Web Services
  • ISO
  • App Development
  • HVAC
  • Linux
  • Web Application Development
  • IP
  • Control Systems
  • Customer Support
  • Civil Engineering
  • Jenkins
  • ROI
  • Objective C
  • Solidworks
  • Windows
  • Process Control
  • Preventive Maintenance
  • PLC
  • Engineering Support
  • CNC
  • Unix

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
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.

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