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Senior systems software engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

7 min read

Quoted experts

Austin McCoy,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Senior systems software engineer example skills

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical senior systems software engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for senior systems software engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 11.0% of senior systems software engineer resumes contained python as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a senior systems software engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 senior systems software 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 senior systems software engineers use python:

Developed, tested and verified Python scripts for the satellite communications (SATCOM) and encryption for the ARC210 radio.
Devise testing strategy and rework Python test scripts to verify proof of design and provide manufacturing test suite.

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 senior systems software engineers use java:

Improved Java Bayes Network Simulator and proposed improvements to Mixture Model Classification and Clustering Algorithms to better infer.
Developed Java clients, reference implementations, prototypes, and proof-of-concepts for infrastructure integration.

3. 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 senior systems software engineers use software development:

Developed and documented an extensible C# library to reduce the software development effort required to implement Azure authentication.
Developed, analyzed and improved software development and maintenance Processes and Procedures including metrics analysis and documentation.

4. Architecture

Here's how senior systems software engineers use architecture:

Authored System Design documentation and architecture diagrams, conducted peer reviews, managed/mentored remote staff for test automation project support.
Integrated the system with CA Identity Manager and LDAP using Service-oriented architecture and web services to facilitate inter-application communication.

5. 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 software engineers use linux:

Designed/implemented marine vessel data recording system using embedded Linux module.
Installed and configured corporate email system using Linux operating system.

6. C

Here's how senior systems software engineers use c:

Designed and developed large C program for SCO UNIX that ran a dozen different Computer Telephone Integration (CTI) applications.
Converted approximately 20-year-old C and C++ code to handle importing, processing, and exporting of both ANSI and Unicode documents.

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7. 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 software engineers use c++:

Designed and developed User Interface screens in Visual c++ and Packages in Oracle required for the customers in Hospitality Suite application.
Designed and Developed screens in Visual c++ and Visual Studio and interacted with Oracle Database using Perl scripts.

8. Scrum

Scrum is a lean structure for communicating, designing, and promoting complex products, with a focus on programming development. It has been applied to a variety of areas, including manufacturing, testing, new technology, and marketing techniques. Scrum is a simple framework that helps people, organizations, and teams generate value by providing many solutions to complicated problems.

Here's how senior systems software engineers use scrum:

Participated in project management, introduced agile methodology and facilitated as scrum master.
Participated in agile scrum methodology for project implementation and assist managers with status updates and user demos on a regular basis.

9. Code Reviews

Code review is a methodical examination of computer source code designed to find and correct errors that go unnoticed in the early stages of development. This generally improves the value of the software and the skills of the developer. Code reviews are important because they improve code quality and make your codebase more stable. They also help programmers build relationships and work together more effectively. Typically, a code review process is performed before merging it with the codebase.

Here's how senior systems software engineers use code reviews:

Conducted code reviews and provided Leadership for Junior Developers.
Led the code review team for all application codes and managed business and technical set-ups for Oracle Applications.

10. Software Design

Here's how senior systems software engineers use software design:

Performed software design, programming and documentation of signal processing techniques utilizing various mathematical utility algorithms for passive acoustic analysis applications.
Translated business specifications into system/software requirements, software design descriptions, and prepared project plans.

11. 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 senior systems software engineers use database:

Facilitated the creation and oversight of a database change management solution; moving application deployment closer toward automation and continues integration.
Developed mathematical models and the database for data access and display of mission critical satellite attitude control and surveillance data.

12. JSON

Here's how senior systems software engineers use json:

Implemented JQuery functionalities, incorporated JSON, and consumed web services from current architectures.
Use Elasticsearch's RESTful API (JSON) to manage the cluster.

13. 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 senior systems software engineers use qa:

Worked as part of a team to develop, execute auto generate test plans and reports for the QA testing procedures.
Led local QA team and collaborated with global counterparts in the Design and Development of Quality Assurance best practices.

14. 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 software engineers use xml:

Integrated C#.NET application software with a Third-Party Email/SMS Messaging Service Provider using XML, HTML, and Web Services.
Analyzed the use of XML processes across multiple networks for validation of data and integration into platform data warehouse.

15. MATLAB

Here's how senior systems software engineers use matlab:

Performed MATLAB simulations for design and optimization.
Created a MATLAB application to help the user covert from one version of a missile simulation package to a new version.

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What skills help Senior Systems Software Engineers 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 software engineer resumes?

Austin McCoy

Director of Javelina Engineering Student Success Center, Texas A&M University - Kingsville

-Internship/co-op experience -Research experience
-Good leadership skills and involvement on campus and in the community and activities where the individual works as part of a team.
-Well written resume can tell a lot about the technical writing skill; a resume needs to be clean and comfortable to read; recruiters can find what they are looking for easily.
-Less is sometimes more because students sometimes will put more information on a resume than is pertinent to the position applying for.

What soft skills should all senior systems software engineers 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 software engineers?

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

Dr. Ariful Azad Ph.D.

Director of Graduate Studies for the Dept. of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Assistant Professor of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University Bloomington

I recommend enhancing skills in data analytics, if a graduate lacks such skills. Revitalizing business practices by analyzing user or inventory data is an integral part of almost all business applications. Hence, skills in data analytics will give a graduate an edge in the changing job market. Data analytics comes in various flavors: from gathering simple statistics to advanced machine learning. Hence, a graduate can always improve their skill from freely available online lectures, online classes such as Coursera, or on-ramp classes offered by many universities.

What type of skills will young senior systems software engineers 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 software engineer 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 software engineer skills to add to your resume

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

Python
Java
Software Development
Architecture
Linux
C
C++
Scrum
Code Reviews
Software Design
Database
JSON
QA
XML
MATLAB
SDLC
Object Oriented Programming

DOD
Debugging
API
Jenkins
System Design
Web Services
Jira
Visualization
Embedded Systems
RF
Configuration Management
Android
OS
Unix
UI
Spring Boot
Tcp Ip

Management System
Ruby
Distributed Computing
SQL Server
Strong Analytical
Test Procedures
Oracle Sql
Regression
Source Code
System Integration
Azure
PC
HTML
Perl
Virtualization

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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