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Principal developer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

8 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical principal developer skills. We ranked the top skills for principal developers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 10.5% of principal developer resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a principal developer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 principal developer 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 principal developers use java:

Developed a number of Java Swing GUI testing and debugging tools for trade optimization analyses.
Worked with GUI tech lead to design and implement java based GUI middleware with backend to Client Push service API layer.

2. Apis

Here's how principal developers use apis:

Developed an API for initializing and accessing a PMC board with a SERCOS ASIC.
Implemented hundreds of test scripts (written in Perl) that contain ten of thousands of test cases for the APIs.

3. Architecture

Here's how principal developers use architecture:

Developed technical specification documents, technical architecture documents, and performed other technical project manager responsibilities for the Integrated Marketing department.
Directed architecture and development efforts for applications that support call center environments across established market segments.

4. 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 principal developers use cloud:

Have been in consulting clients for various methods for integration and development in Service-now Implementation and Orchestration of Cloud Provisioning.
Serve as a key developer for accounts receivables for Cloud based SAP Business By Design (ByD).

5. JavaScript

Here's how principal developers use javascript:

Implemented ASP.NET MVC 5, HTML5, and JavaScript web interface to rank, compare, and search candidate sequences.
Trained the staff in Flash ActionScript and JavaScript.

6. 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 principal developers use web services:

Web Services Governance Using Enterprise Repository and Registry.
Implemented a framework in SOAR to interface with APX, ERCOT, PJM and MISO markets using secured web service.

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7. Cloud Computing

Here's how principal developers use cloud computing:

Worked on different Microsoft ETL and cloud computing tools, such as Azure and MSSQL.

8. 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 principal developers use software development:

Develop and publish information about the Ocean Model of Software Development and other information related to numerous areas of interest.
Consult and advise with internal business partner groups to provide high-level application software development services and technical support.

9. 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 principal developers use linux:

Developed in C# and C++ on platforms including embedded Windows and Linux on Intel, PowerPC and Arm processors.
Developed the Linux device driver for the Camera frame grabber card PX610A.

10. 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 principal developers use product development:

Project manager and engineer for new product development and extrusion casting/laminating processes for electronic film materials in a clean room environment.
Managed two development scientists and had responsibility for overall Product Development Laboratory operations located at the Buckner, KY manufacturing facility.

11. Debugging

Here's how principal developers use debugging:

Designed analog and digital circuits, and conducted various tasks of troubleshooting, debugging, and simulation.
Performed validation operations, troubleshooting and debugging source code to recover errors.

12. Ruby

Ruby is a high-level programming language, versatile in its uses and tools. It might be used to design either programs and software which can be applied and used on a number of devices, other programs, and platforms. The fact that it is a high-level programming language means that it is easier to use than low-level languages, in that it automises parts of the program building process and uses natural language for some of its elements.

Here's how principal developers use ruby:

Mentored and lead team of software developers in architecting and implementing Ruby on Rails web applications to manage 2D barcode campaigns.
Developed automated testing system prototype in Ruby.

13. UI

Here's how principal developers use ui:

Analyzed, designed and developed the application using various internally developed frameworks for real time messaging, data feeds and UI.
Configured Authentication Provider, UI Store, Access via OHS and Web Gate as well as Identity Assertion.

14. IP

An IP - Internet Protocol is a unique number assigned to all devices connected to information technology, such as printers, routers, modems, etc. Each device or domain that connects to the Internet is assigned an IP address, and as packets are directed to the IP address attached to them, the data goes where it is needed. IP addresses are the identifier used to send information between devices on a network. They contain location information and make devices accessible for communication.

Here's how principal developers use ip:

Conducted market research, developed partnerships, managed financial administration, and negotiated IP licensing.
Deployed IP & Console Fit & Finish Methodology, which has since been adopted as a Visteon Standard on all programs.

15. C

Here's how principal developers use c:

Performed breadboard level checkout with MPLAB ICD2 debugger, utilizing combination of CCS C and native low-level code environments.
Program Analysis: Developed static source code analyzer for the C language.

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What skills help Principal Developers find jobs?

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

What skills stand out on principal developer 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 principal developers 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 principal developers?

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 principal developer 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 principal developers need?

Dr. Simone Ludwig

Professor and Interim Chair, North Dakota State University

The different roles our students take on once they complete our program are developer, programmer, software engineer, and development analyst positions. All of these positions involve some type of software development, be it on the front end, e.g. application development, or on the back end programming server or database applications. Besides the technical skills, the ability to communicate well and to work individually but also collaborate in a team environment are important.

What technical skills for a principal developer 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 principal developer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a principal developer resume and required skills for a principal developer to have include:

Java
Apis
Architecture
Cloud
JavaScript
Web Services
Cloud Computing
Software Development
Linux
Product Development
Debugging
Ruby
UI
IP
C

C++
Web Application
AWS
HTML
User Interface
Jenkins
Business Development
Project Management
Azure
Application Development
Emerging Technologies
Windows
Database
QA
CSS

PHP
JSON
Regression
Facebook
SQL Server
Microservices
English Language
Unix
XML
HR
Oracle Sql
Development Projects
MVC
Product Line

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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