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Junior 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 junior programmer skills. We ranked the top skills for junior programmers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 11.6% of junior programmer resumes contained c++ as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a junior programmer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 junior programmer skills for your resume and career

1. 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 junior programmers use c++:

Developed program enhancements and proof of concept models with proprietary Pascal and Visual C++.
Carried out C++ programming assignments for company clients.

2. JavaScript

Here's how junior programmers use javascript:

Implemented Client side validations using JavaScript.
Created a database system using Java, JSP, SQL, HTML and JavaScript Updated internal systems

3. Web Application

Here's how junior programmers use web application:

Kicked off development of ASP/SQL Server-based internal web application, introducing the company to web-based reporting
Programmed training web applications for government contracts, designed and implemented interactive Flash Movies.

4. 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 junior programmers use java:

Programmed and coded small modules and functional code in C, Visual Basic, and Java.
Designed and Coded Front end screen using HTML, JSP, Flash and Java Script.

5. HTML

Here's how junior programmers use html:

Designed and coded a Mobil Travel Guide online survey, using HTML, ASP, and MS SQL 6.5 server.
Assisted DoD Tier Site managers through development and maintenance of sites using ColdFusion, HTML, and SQL

6. 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 junior programmers use python:

Created standalone desktop application for use as a scripting language for web-based programs through Python.
Created a script that converted PNG to TIFF in Python

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7. CSS

Here's how junior programmers use css:

Used JQuery for HTML/DOM manipulations, CSS manipulations, animations and also to load the pages quicker because of its simplicity.
Fix CSS bugs, make site more responsive, assist in code refactoring

8. Database Objects

Here's how junior programmers use database objects:

Created Database Objects to write control files to load data from spreadsheet into specific tables by utilizing SQL Loader.
Created database objects such as tables, views, synonyms, indexes as per business requirements.

9. PL/SQL

Here's how junior programmers use pl/sql:

Created database Store procedures, functions and packages using PL/SQL and generated data entry forms and reports.
Worked on SQL queries to generate reports using Argos tool and PL/SQL scripts for job submission.

10. Microsoft SQL Server

Here's how junior programmers use microsoft sql server:

Analyzed, designed, created, and implemented databases for use with assigned programs on the Microsoft SQL Server.
Developed SQL Server databases using Microsoft SQL Server 2005.

11. PHP

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

Here's how junior programmers use php:

Performed code review and debug of: VB 6.0, PHP standard applications.
Created websites utilizing WordPress * Learned how to code in PHP

12. JQuery

Here's how junior programmers use jquery:

Designed and developed websites using Prototype and jQuery.
Created Maintenance screens to Add/Modify/Delete using Jquery Data grids.

13. Data Analysis

Here's how junior programmers use data analysis:

Worked on SQL development and data analysis for university database.
Assist project senior investigators with data analysis and report writing

14. User Interface

The user interface (UI) is the area or point where a person communicates with or transfers information to an electric computer or application. The user interface enables applications to offer precise product details to their intended customer without causing any misunderstanding. Customers want modern technology to behave in a certain manner for their convenience, so it is advised to create a user interface that is simple to use, precise, and predictable so that customers are fully pleased with its services. It can make a significant difference in converting visitors into customers.

Here's how junior programmers use user interface:

Set up usability studies for the user Interface by talking to the users and acquiring feedback.
Involved in Writing User Interface Code, Business and Data Layer by using VB.NET and ADO.NET.

15. XML

XML is a medium for storing and transporting data that is independent of software and hardware. XML stands for eXtensible Markup Language. XML, like HTML, is a markup language that was created to store and transport data. It was created with the intention of being self-descriptive. There are no predefined tags in the XML language. Another feature is that XML is extensible.

Here's how junior programmers use xml:

Involved in coding for the presentation layer using Apache Struts Framework, AJAX and XML.
Maintained XML files that pertained to characters abilities and equipment for proper stat tracking.

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What skills help Junior Programmers find jobs?

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

What skills stand out on junior 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 junior 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 junior 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 junior 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 junior programmers need?

Hang Dinh Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Indiana University South Bend

In the coming years, when life is still being impacted by the pandemic in some way, graduates who enter the workforce may need skills that help them work efficiently from home. Those skills would include time management, self-motivation, and the ability to use technology. Of course, they still need the skills that are usually needed for their jobs, such as communication skills, teamwork, etc.

What technical skills for a junior 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 junior programmer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a junior programmer resume and required skills for a junior programmer to have include:

C++
JavaScript
Web Application
Java
HTML
Python
CSS
Database Objects
PL/SQL
Microsoft SQL Server
PHP
JQuery
Data Analysis
User Interface
XML
Architecture

QA
VBA
Linux
Application Development
COBOL
ASP
Windows NT
MVC
Pair Programming
Test Cases
Version Control
Web Services
Management System
Perl
Object Oriented Programming
Unix

Payroll
EDI
SVN
SDLC
Web Pages
C Net
T-SQL
Ajax
GUI
PC
SSRS
Apache Tomcat
System Analysis
ADO
RPG

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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