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Software engineering internship skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

8 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Bruce DeRuntz Ph.D.,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Software engineering internship example skills

Some of the most important hard skills a software engineering intern can possess include fluency in coding languages such as Python, Java, and C++, and familiarity with software such as Linux, Windows, and Cloud technology. Computer fluency is a highly important skill set for software engineers, so the more deeply you can demonstrate this, the better off you are.

When it comes to soft skills, interns of all kinds benefit greatly from excellent communication. Engineering interns benefit especially from great public speaking and presentation skills, and fluency with presentation tools such as Powerpoint.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical software engineering internship skills. We ranked the top skills for software engineering interns based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 16.2% of software engineering internship resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a software engineering internship needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 software engineering internship 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 engineering interns use java:

Developed ambulatory infusion pump GUI java program and adaptable embedded C code to assist in automated pump infusion accuracy testing
Developed automated test cases for company applications using Java and executed these test cases with Selenium WebDriver.

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 engineering interns use python:

Investigated existing C++ code repositories to capture message structures and business logic and implement in Python for protocol processor code execution.
Supported simulator development in Python on Linux RedHat platform for test network issue simulation and troubleshooting of satellite communications software.

3. Object Oriented Programming

Here's how software engineering interns use object oriented programming:

Worked directly with software engineer to build software for production line testing to increase efficiency using Object Oriented programming methodology.
Implemented object oriented programming paradigm from existing system written in Python into Java.

4. 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 engineering interns use software development:

Managed the project and development of the software package using Agile software development methodology and Git distributed version control respectively.
Researched/Assimilated technical data and preparation of engineering documents to support the C-130J Software Development and Maintenance process.

5. 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 software engineering interns use cloud:

Planned and initiated redesign of existing standalone application, utilizing object-oriented programming in creating a cloud distribution system.
Designed and implemented an automatic regression testing framework on cloud stack.

6. Emerging Technologies

Here's how software engineering interns use emerging technologies:

Attended numerous technology conferences as a representative for the company and prepared reports on emerging technologies for senior management.
Evaluate current and emerging technologies to consider factors such as cost, portability, compatibility and usability.

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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 engineering interns use linux:

Developed a dynamic educational forum platform using CoffeeScript Meteor (web development platform) and MongoDB in a Linux environment.
Installed, configured, operated and maintained Linux operating system environment of the company.

8. C

Here's how software engineering interns use c:

Created automated testing software for automobiles using C based languages
Performed software integration, testing, quality control and data analysis for blood analyzers to increase the reliability using C Programming/UNIX.

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 engineering interns use c++:

Developed a chat server in c++ and a client in Microsoft Visual Basic.
Honed C++ skills and extensively utilized the Qt framework.

10. GIT

Here's how software engineering interns use git:

Release and deploy twice a week using git flow and Capistrano.
Helped other teams set up test automation infrastructure and git repositories.

11. Key Management

Here's how software engineering interns use key management:

Tested a key management system used in a large tactical network with a professional team.
Developed a security management service incorporating the proprietary OpenStack Barbican key management solution.

12. Android

An android is an operating system designed for mobiles. It is a modified version of Linux Kernel and all other types of software that are designed for touchscreens. Like every other OS, android's job is to connect the device and the user. Android offers us numerous choices while buying a phone, it is Google and user-friendly as well.

Here's how software engineering interns use android:

Designed and implemented an educational peer-to-peer collaborative application using Android Bluetooth API and AllJoyn SDK.
Developed an android application to measure memory footprints and perform I/O operations.

13. UI

Here's how software engineering interns use ui:

Created UI for testing application to display received notification details to provide better visibility for the end user
Provided detailed comments on automation test design procedures and UI requirement specifications.

14. AWS

Here's how software engineering interns use aws:

Saved 100% developer's time on periodic checks of uploads to Amazon S3 by writing scheduled AWS Lambda Python script.
Performed Unit, Regression, Load, Performance and Sanity testing for AWS based deployments in US, Canada and Europe.5.

15. Windows

Windows is a chain of operating systems that controls a computer and is developed by Microsoft. Every version of Windows consists of GUI (graphical user interface), with a desktop that allows the user to open their files.

Here's how software engineering interns use windows:

Designed and developed user credibility algorithm for Windows Localization Quality Game, including implementation via C#/SQL.
Converted an existing, customer facing, Windows application into a highly optimized web application.

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What skills help Software Engineering Interns find jobs?

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

What skills stand out on software engineering internship resumes?

Dr. Bruce DeRuntz Ph.D.

Director, Leadership Development Program, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

There are three skills that I think will be the most valuable: mastery of online collaboration, interpersonal skills, and taking initiative.

Many of the organizations today are adapting to online meetings and work, but aren't very good at mastering the new online meeting platforms and integrated tools. This is where new grads can excel. Just as everyone lists MS Office as a skill, the graduate who can demonstrate that they can make an organization more productive by having a mastery, and not just a proficiency, of online meeting platform. Employers have been asking for people with interpersonal skills for a decade because building trusting relatinships are what gets work done. Moving online only exacerbates this relationship problem. I believe that this current generation has potential to pivot off of their social media experiences but they won't be able to ghost their co-workers when conflict arrises. Taking initiative is the third skill that organizations value especially during these times. Because they are trying to figure out how to work remotely and develop new business processes, they will have less time for hand holding with new employees. New graduates who understant that they have a tremendous opportunity to excel when they take the initiative to go beyond what is expected of them and help their managers create business solutions to the new work environment.

What soft skills should all software engineering internships 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 engineering internships?

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 engineering internship 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 software engineering internships 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 engineering internship 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 engineering internship skills to add to your resume

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

Java
Python
Object Oriented Programming
Software Development
Cloud
Emerging Technologies
Linux
C
C++
GIT
Key Management
Android
UI
AWS
Windows
Web Application

Html Css
Scrum
Debugging
Front End
Data Analysis
Web Services
HTML
CSS
Ruby
Http
Embedded Systems
PHP
Cloud Computing
Visualization
Unix
Perl

Docker
MATLAB
Hadoop
Ajax
Jenkins
Math
User Interface
Azure
Test Cases
Rest API
Jira
QA
Version Control
Code Reviews

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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