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Software engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

7 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Strong hard skills, or technical skills, and an ability to demonstrate these skills is very important in software engineering positions. Some of the most important hard skills a software engineer can have include an advanced knowledge of coding languages and software such as Python, Java, and CSS. Software development is, of course, a major part of the job, so these skills are of the utmost importance.

Software engineers will also need to have a great repertoire of soft skills to set them apart from other candidates. Software engineers should have strong multitasking skills, as the job often requires juggling many different tasks and projects at once. Software engineers will also want to display strong problem-solving skills.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical software engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for software engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 14.8% of software engineer resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a software engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 software engineer 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 software engineers use java:

Involved in writing Multi-Threading Synchronization concepts in Java Programs.
Developed JAVA based web application for Customer Relationship Management.

2. 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 software engineers use python:

Performed vulnerability remediation for patient care web application using Python and PostgreSQL on OpenSUSE Linux.
Developed a python serial communication program to automate test procedures and verify proper operation.

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 software engineers use software development:

Interfaced with various external/internal customers such as product managers and lead testers to gather and define functional specifications for software development.
Improved in-house software development processes by evangelizing best-practices, such as test-driven development, continuous integration, and automated deployment.

4. 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 software engineers use database:

Performed configuration management and administered SourceSafe database.
Well versed in understanding and implementing the Business requirements, giving appropriate suggestions and working on database design accordingly.

5. GIT

Here's how software engineers use git:

Maintain Configuration Management (CM) git repositories for internal/external developed software and resolve subsystem to subsystem daily merge/integration issues.
Implemented Behavior driven Development using Cucumber and managing code reviews using Git.

6. Object Oriented Programming

Here's how software engineers use object oriented programming:

Developed Web Based Banking Applications like Brand Migration, Mortgage Module Development and Snapshot Functionality using Object Oriented Programming.
Developed and enhanced dozens of Visual Studio applications for a financial system using procedural based and object oriented programming.

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7. 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 software engineers use linux:

Administered and monitored multiple geographically dispersed Linux web servers for the organization and clients.
Managed and prioritized huge bug backlog in enabling timely release of Linux Distributions.

8. C

Here's how software engineers use c:

Developed remote diagnostic applications using C for an existing product.
Designed and implemented C based automated database verification system.

9. 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 software engineers use c++:

Created an automated process for generating c++ source code from Action Script to facilitate a UML based modeling object design process.
Developed PLSXML tool using c++ and OOPS concepts which retrieves the PLSXML commands from the printer to the end user.

10. API

Here's how software engineers use api:

Developed a comprehensive product display page api to provide additional product information.
Developed and improved the architecture of the REST api for CTS, which is used by several clients in the RDC.

11. CSS

Here's how software engineers use css:

Designed and developed intranet web applications using JavaScript and CSS.
Developed server-side common utilities for the application and the front-end dynamic web pages using JSP, JavaScript and HTML/DHTML and CSS.

12. 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 software engineers use scrum:

Worked in the Agile/Scrum development environment with frequently changing requirements and actively participated in scrum meetings and reviews.
Followed agile development methodology and participated in daily scrum, iteration planning, user story review meetings.

13. Spring Boot

Here's how software engineers use spring boot:

Developed projects using spring boot application.
Used Spring Boot which is radically faster in building cloud MicroServices and develop Spring based application with very less configuration.

14. UI

Here's how software engineers use ui:

Designed and implemented UI to automatically generate reports on customers and sales data using Jasper Reports.
Worked extensively on developing efficient UI and performance sensitive business tier.

15. 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 software engineers use web services:

Created and implemented web services in C# to facilitate communication with automotive manufacturers.
Designed and developed communication between client and server using Web Services.

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

Dr. Sridhar Santhanam Ph.D.

Professor and Chair, Villanova University

In a gap year, graduates could consider retooling themselves by acquiring advanced knowledge and skills. Graduate school provides a perfect avenue for this. Enrolling in a Masters's program that aligns with one's interests and aptitudes can be an excellent investment. Many graduate schools also offer shorter certificate programs targeted to specific sub-disciplines within mechanical engineerings, such as robotics, sustainable energy, or additive manufacturing. Certificates can be obtained in a calendar year, or less, and can significantly bolster one's resume in preparation for exploring the job market after the gap year. Several programs offer online graduate classes, thereby providing convenience and accessibility to students.

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

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

Java
Python
Software Development
Database
GIT
Object Oriented Programming
Linux
C
C++
API
CSS
Scrum
Spring Boot
UI
Web Services
HTML

Debugging
Front End
Azure
Html Css
Net Core
Jenkins
Code Reviews
Web Application
C Net
Jira
Emerging Technologies
Taking Care
Application Development
Android
SQL Server
PHP

Unix
Microservices
Ruby
XML
MVC
Strong Problem-Solving
JSON
Version Control
JQuery
Cloud Computing
Perl
User Interface
Amazon Web Services
Maven
Visualization
Math

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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