Research Summary. We analyzed 10,793 software developer resumes to determine which ones land the most jobs. Below you'll find examples of resumes that can help you get an interview (and a job offer) from companies like Compunnel Software Group and Oracle. Here are the key facts about software developer resumes to help you get the job:

  • The average software developer resume is 500 words long
  • The average software developer resume is 1.1 pages long based on 450 words per page.
  • Java is the most common skill found on a software developer resume. It appears on 11.0% of resumes.
After learning about how to write a professional software developer resume, you can make sure your resume checks all the boxes with our resume builder.

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Software Developer Resume Example

Choose From 10+ Customizable Software Developer Resume templates

Zippia allows you to choose from different easy-to-use Software Developer templates, and provides you with expert advice. Using the templates, you can rest assured that the structure and format of your Software Developer resume is top notch. Choose a template with the colors, fonts & text sizes that are appropriate for your industry.

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Software Developer Resume

What Should Be Included In A Software Developer Resume

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1. Add Contact Information To Your Software Developer Resume

Your name should be the biggest text on the page and be at or near the top of the document.

Your address doesn't need to include your street name or house number - listing your city and state works just fine.

Your email address should be professional, but not your current work email address. It's not a good look to use your work email for personal projects (job-searching).

Your social media can be included if you have a fully-fledged LinkedIn page or another social media page that showcases your relevant skill set.

Software Developer Resume Contact Information Example #1

Jane Moore

Montgomery, AL 36043| 333-111-2222 | jane.moore@email.com

Do you want to know more?
How To Write The Perfect Resume Header
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2. Add Your Relevant Education To The Resume

Your resume's education section should include:

  • The name of your school
  • The date you graduated (Month, Year or Year are both appropriate)
  • The name of your degree
If you graduated more than 15 years ago, you should consider dropping your graduation date to avoid age discrimination.

Optional subsections for your education section include:

  • Academic awards (Dean's List, Latin honors, etc. )
  • GPA (if you're a recent graduate and your GPA was 3.5+)
  • Extra certifications
  • Academic projects (thesis, dissertation, etc.)

Other tips to consider when writing your education section include:

  • If you're a recent graduate, you might opt to place your education section above your experience section
  • The more work experience you get, the shorter your education section should be
  • List your education in reverse chronological order, with your most recent and high-ranking degrees first
  • If you haven't graduated yet, you can include "Expected graduation date" to the entry for that school

Software Developer Resume Relevant Education Example #1

Bachelor's Degree In Computer Science 2014 - 2016

DeVry University Oakbrook Terrace, IL

Software Developer Resume Relevant Education Example #2

Master's Degree In Computer Science 2014 - 2016

New York Institute of Technology Old Westbury, NY

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3. Next, Create A Software Developer Skills Section On Your Resume

Your resume's skills section should include the most important keywords from the job description, as long as you actually have those skills. If you haven't started your job search yet, you can look over resumes to get an idea of what skills are the most important.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your resume's skills section:

  • Include 6-12 skills, in bullet point form
  • List mostly hard skills; soft skills are hard to test
  • Emphasize the skills that are most important for the job
Hard skills are generally more important to hiring managers because they relate to on-the-job knowledge and specific experience with a certain technology or process.

Soft skills are also valuable, as they're highly transferable and make you a great person to work alongside, but they're impossible to prove on a resume.

Example Of Software Developer Skills For Resume

  • Java Skills

    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.

  • Python Skills

    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.

  • C++ Skills

    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

  • Software Development Skills

    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.

  • Database Skills

    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.

  • Linux Skills

    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.

  • Jenkins Skills

    Jenkins is an open source automation server that is free to use. It aids continuous deployment and execution by automating the aspects of product creation related to building, analyzing, and deploying. It is a system based on the server that runs in servlet containers like Apache Tomcat. Jenkins is a Java-based fully accessible automation platform with plugins designed for Continuous Integration.

Top Skills for a Software Developer

Source: Zippia.com
  • Java, 11.0%
  • Python, 8.9%
  • C++, 7.3%
  • Software Development, 5.9%
  • Other Skills, 66.9%
Not sure which skills are really important?
3 Big Tips For Listing Skills On Your Resume
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4. List Your Software Developer Experience

The most important part of any resume is the experience section. Recruiters and hiring managers expect to see your experience listed in reverse chronological order, meaning that you should begin with your most recent experience and then work backwards.

Don't just list your job duties below each job entry. Instead, make sure most of your bullet points discuss impressive achievements from your past positions. Whenever you can, use numbers to contextualize your accomplishments for the hiring manager reading your resume.

It's okay if you can't include exact percentages or dollar figures. There's a big difference even between saying "Managed a team of engineers" and "Managed a team of 6 engineers over a 9-month project."

Most importantly, make sure that the experience you include is relevant to the job you're applying for. Use the job description to ensure that each bullet point on your resume is appropriate and helpful.

What Experience Really Stands Out On Software Developer Resumes?

Dr. Simone Ludwig

Professor and Interim Chair, North Dakota State University

Capstone experience, Internship or Co-op experience, and working on a research project will stand out on a resume.

Don't have any experience?
How To Show Your Experience On a Resume... Even When You Don't Have Any
Work History Example # 1
Software Engineer
Microsoft
  • Involved in automating dataflow in to database using PowerShell Scripting, Stored Procedures and Widows Service.
  • Implemented a Search component for MS SharePoint Server using Visual C++, MFC and Win 32 SDK.
  • Trained and passed certification as an information systems auditor (CISA).
  • Please refer http://azuredialim/Reports/Pages/Folder.aspx and http://statman/.
  • Experience at network installation and administration of PCS, MACs and main frame nodes.
Work History Example # 2
Quality Assurance Tester
AMD
  • Participate in the search, evaluation, acceptance and testing of new factory automation tools.
  • Assisted setup Digital Virtual Tester (TVT by TSSI) environment for AMD Fusion APU.
  • Handle the task of explaining UAT scope, criteria and entry/exit strategy to less trained professionals.
  • import data from SAP CRM cube to Planning/Consolidation application for a particular source system and period for Balance Sheet GL accounts.
  • Created a detailed test plan and scripts covering the various aspects of product testing during the design and development phase.
Work History Example # 3
Software Developer
AT&T
  • CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENTS Lead the technical teams adoption of Agile and Scrum and knowledge transfer for onshore and offshore members.
  • Enhanced existing applications, which was written VB6/VBScript, JavaScript & ASP, with new functionality.
  • Configured the Capstone Rules Engine & UNIX Server.
  • Provided performance tuning and physical and logical database design support in projects on Teradata systems.
  • Developed python code to load very large datasets from a variety sources into an Oracle database environment.
Work History Example # 4
Junior Developer
Multivision Communications
  • Design and development of java applications using java Swing, jsps, ejbs and servlets.
  • Implemented the MVC pattern using J2EE frameworks such as Struts, JSF, and Spring MVC.
  • Tested application multiple times with JUnit 4.
  • Trained in major J2EE technologies.
  • Implemented Web Services and JMS to achieve synchronize and asynchronize message communication.
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5. Highlight Your Software Developer Certifications On Resume

Certifications can be a powerful tool to show employers that you know your stuff. If you have any of these certifications, make sure to put them on your software developer resume:

  1. Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC)
  2. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)
  3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)
  4. Programming in C# Certification
  5. Java Development Certified Professional
  6. Certified Web Professional - Web Developer
  7. Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)
  8. Oracle Certified Associate - Oracle9i Database Administrator (OCA)
  9. E-Commerce Developer (ECD)
  10. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 3.5, Windows Workflow Fnd Applications (MCTS)

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6. Finally, Add a Software Developer Resume Summary Or Objective Statement

A resume summary statement is a 1-3 sentence spiel at the top of your resume that quickly summarizes who you are and what you have to offer. In this section, include your job title, years of experience (if it's 3+), and an impressive accomplishment, if you have space for it.

Remember to address skills and experiences that are emphasized in the job description.

Are you a recent grad?
Read our guide on how to write a resume summary statement

Professional Software Developer Resume example

And if you’re looking for a high-paying job, here are jobs in the top places hiring now:

  1. Software Developer Jobs In San Francisco, CA
  2. Software Developer Jobs In Seattle, WA
  3. Software Developer Jobs In New York, NY
  4. Software Developer Jobs In Jersey City, NJ
  5. Software Developer Jobs In Washington, DC

Five Key Resume Tips For Writing A Software Developer Resume:

1.
Relevant Experience
Make sure that the jobs, experience, and accolades that you include are relevant to the position you’re applying for.
2.
The Right Skills
This is a great time to run wild with those keywords from the job description. For example, if they’re looking for someone with experience in Web Application, be sure to list it in your resume’s skills section.
3.
Quantifiable Achievements
Your workplace accomplishments tell the story of the unique value you bring to an organization. Stay away from dry descriptions of job duties. Use numbers to help contextualize your achievements..
4.
ATS-Friendly
An applicant tracking system (ATS) is a piece of software employers use to collect, scan, organize, and rank applications. The key to getting your resume past ATS and into the hands of hiring managers is smart keyword usage.
5.
Impeccable Formatting
Formatting a resume so that it looks professional and attractive is important. With Zippia’s resume builder, you can put together a modern-looking resume in less than 10 minutes. Just choose a resume template that suits your style, answer some questions about your background, and you’ll have a resume that’ll pass muster with both the ATS and the hiring manager.
Not sure how to make a resume that stands out?
See sample resumes for the job you want
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Software Developer Resumes FAQs

How Do I Write A Resume For A Developer Job?

You write a resume for a developer job by highlighting your skills and achievements in developing applications and software using various programming languages, technical expertise, and soft skills. As a developer, you understand the importance of well-designed code that is efficient and effective. Your resume should be no different.

How Many Pages Should A Software Developer's Resume Be?

A software developer's resume should be between one to two pages. In recent years, the trend has been two pages unless you're applying for a junior level or associate software developer position.

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