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Senior systems developer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

7 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical senior systems developer skills. We ranked the top skills for senior systems developers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 15.0% of senior systems developer resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a senior systems developer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 senior systems 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 senior systems developers use java:

Engaged in coding/implementation in Java using a 3rd party application server.
Designed classes/objects for JAVA applications.

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 senior systems developers use c++:

Design document produced with C++ as the object oriented language targeted.
Enhanced/fixed various component of Trading System using C++.

3. API

Here's how senior systems developers use api:

Developed and deployed Mobile Dashboards with panel stacks and URL API drill downs for ease of use and optimizing limited screen.
Warehouse and logistics Dashboards with panel stacks and URL API drill downs for exception reporting on Purchase orders & shipment information.

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 senior systems developers use linux:

Developed TCP/IP-based and socket programs under Linux operating system for collecting data from remote sites (SeniMax) and alert generation.
Administered local & remote Fedora & RedHat Enterprise Linux systems & networks, including system setup & network security.

5. Application Development

Here's how senior systems developers use application development:

Researched new and emerging technologies to meet application development, end-user experience and ROI requirements.
Act as a liaison between Client Services, Operations, Application Development and IT groups.

6. SQL Server

Here's how senior systems developers use sql server:

Developed a data conversion solution using SQL Server replication and Windows Services.
Experience in configuration of report server and report manager scheduling, give permissions to different level of users in SQL Server.

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7. Oracle Sql

Here's how senior systems developers use oracle sql:

Audit Utilities: Designed and delivered utilities using KSH and Oracle sqlplus to satisfy company audit guidelines for customer data.
Coded JavaScript for client side validation Wrote Oracle SQL queries in SQLDeveloper 3.1 to retrieve data and to display using JSP.

8. HTML

Here's how senior systems developers use html:

Worked with the team in the development of the Application front-end using JSP, HTML and CSS.
Utilized Crystal Reports in Visual Studio 2010 to rewrite outdated HTML reports for business application.

9. 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 senior systems developers use web services:

Designed and assisted with implementation of WCF web based UI (C#/.NET) to interface with WCF web services.
Coded test cases and action classes of web services for production use.

10. CSS

Here's how senior systems developers use css:

Created Device/OS/desktop specific CSS files for different browser specific rendering.
Developed CSS and involved Master Pages to user interface uniformity.

11. Debugging

Here's how senior systems developers use debugging:

Performed daily maintenance, triage, and remote debugging on an as-needed basis on production applications.
Documented and shared user test results with development team members for further evaluation; performed debugging as necessary.

12. Management System

A management system is a set of policies, processes, and procedures taken by an organization or a business to ensure it can fulfill its tasks and achieve its objectives. A management system makes sure that the company excels financially and improves the user experience. The management system also takes care of the worker's and employees' needs and manages their workload and oversees their performance. Apart from interior matters of the company, a management system also deals with exterior matters like legislations, tax matters, and law issues.

Here's how senior systems developers use management system:

Conducted Cost-Benefit analysis of major commercially available enterprise content management systems.
Participated in the development and testing of the Cargo Revenue Management System for Lufthansa Cargo using Oracle Developer 2000 tools.

13. Unix

UNIX is a computer operating system that was first created in the 1960s and has been constantly updated since then. The operating system refers to the set of programs that enable a machine to function. It is a multi-user, multi-tasking device that works on computers, laptops, and servers. UNIX systems also have a graphical user interface (GUI), similar to Microsoft Windows, that makes it simple to use.

Here's how senior systems developers use unix:

Preformed UNIX system administrative functions.
Conducted routine hardware and software audits of UNIX workstations/servers for compliance with established standards, policies, procedures and configuration guidelines.

14. Technical Support

Technical support or tech support are the services provided by any hardware or software company to users. They help in solving the technical difficulties the customers face with their products or services. Moreover, the tech support employees maintain, manage, and repair the IT faults. They are also responsible for resolving the network problems, installing and configuring hardware and software.

Here's how senior systems developers use technical support:

Provide technical support for study systems that are in production, manage vendors and third parties testing agencies.
Provided technical support to Department of Transportation employees to verify fuel tax returns filed by trucking companies.

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 senior systems developers use xml:

Developed FTP-based interfaces (.NET console applications or Windows Services) for communicating plain text or XML files to third-party vendors.
Designed and implemented an ASP.NET XML Web Service to create and export an XML feed file within the PPM system.

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What skills help Senior Systems Developers find jobs?

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

What skills stand out on senior systems 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 senior systems 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 senior systems 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 senior systems 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 senior systems developers 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 a senior systems 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 senior systems developer skills to add to your resume

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

Java
C++
API
Linux
Application Development
SQL Server
Oracle Sql
HTML
Web Services
CSS
Debugging
Management System
Unix
Technical Support
XML
PL/SQL

Database Design
JQuery
ETL
Html Css
MVC
UI
Web Application
BI
Ajax
Apex
SDLC
PC
PHP
Post Implementation
SAS
DB2

QA
JSON
User Interface
Ssis
SSRS
Data Warehouse
CRM
Ruby
Perl
WCF
Code Reviews
T-SQL
ASP
C Net

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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