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Software engineering specialist skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

6 min read

Quoted experts

Dr. Brock LaMeres Ph.D.,

Brian George Ph.D.

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical software engineering specialist skills. We ranked the top skills for software engineering specialists based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 20.1% of software engineering specialist resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a software engineering specialist needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 software engineering specialist 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 specialists use java:

Designed and developed an automated testing Java based application using Selenium framework.
Developed Java Web services framework to expose the configuration and reports of the System securely to the authorized users.

2. 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 specialists use software development:

Performed services including software development process consulting, architecture/design consulting, tool integration, and product and technology training.
Coordinated the software development team's effort to capture, define, and analyze Customer Software Requirements for implementation.

3. 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 specialists use python:

Developed python scripts to provide seamless automation between multiple operating systems and tested them to minimize scripts related failures during testing.
Designed and implemented python automation scripts to download and install individual components on virtual machines and collect status information.

4. 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 specialists use windows:

Developed a real-time artificial intelligent system using Level 5 Object expert system running under the 16-bit Microsoft Windows 3.1.
Converted a C based application running on a VAX platform to a Microsoft Access application running under Windows.

5. API

Here's how software engineering specialists use api:

Implemented new changes to payment API for company-wide deployment and integration with third parties.
Lead a team of developers to integrate Starwood s SPG program with Concur TripLink API.

6. C

Here's how software engineering specialists use c:

Coded Embedded 8088 C code for RS232 serial port initialization routines and the interrupt service routines for character sends and receives.
Reduced development time and error rates while improving efficiency by building C style structure definition and function generating tool.

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 software engineering specialists 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.

8. 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 specialists use linux:

Developed bash (linux) scripts for daily tasks.
Developed and maintained an ISP-class Linux server that delivered nationwide personalized television electronic program guide data to browser-equipped TVs.

9. CSS

Here's how software engineering specialists use css:

Utilized IBM CSS Lab facilities to mimic/reproduce various customers upgrade environments to formulate and validate migration plans.
Enhanced customer Account Profile usability by implementing reusable components using JavaScript prototyping and CSS.

10. Software Products

Here's how software engineering specialists use software products:

Developed and maintained software products.
Planned enhancements to existing software products; developed Functional Design specifications for a new Managed Care Module.

11. User Interface

The user interface (UI) is the area or point where a person communicates with or transfers information to an electric computer or application. The user interface enables applications to offer precise product details to their intended customer without causing any misunderstanding. Customers want modern technology to behave in a certain manner for their convenience, so it is advised to create a user interface that is simple to use, precise, and predictable so that customers are fully pleased with its services. It can make a significant difference in converting visitors into customers.

Here's how software engineering specialists use user interface:

Involved with continuous modification and enhancements to MOTIF/X-Windows-based user interface in TTGS.
Design and Implementation of Object Oriented graphic user interface simulation.

12. Visualization

Here's how software engineering specialists use visualization:

Developed a data visualization tool for a real-time, interactive flight test application that enabled participation of geographically dispersed test teams.
Created reusable visualization dashboards using Angular Custom Directives projecting pricing models and promotional strategies of brands and its competitors.

13. Software Applications

A software application is any computer program developed and used by consumers, such as Microsoft's suite of products (Office, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.), Internet browsers such as Firefox, Safari, and Chrome, or browser add-ons that Defendant preinstalls or causes to be preinstalled onto a Covered Product. The software application is designed to help the user perform specific tasks - personal, educational, and business functions.

Here's how software engineering specialists use software applications:

Developed software applications and tests that improved the efficiency, usability, and quality of manufacturing tests.
Coordinated continued performance assurance of software applications and automated performance test scripts.

14. Debugging

Here's how software engineering specialists use debugging:

Supported an existing flight simulator program for EA-6B aircraft by debugging and enhancing its capabilities using FORTRAN language.
Worked with other groups locally and internationally to integrate features to current software after development and debugging phase were completed.

15. 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 software engineering specialists use technical support:

Provided technical support to install and upgrade desktop PC workstations.
Supported BMC Perceive web reporting application which provided dynamic reporting of server performance data to technical support departments.

What skills help Software Engineering Specialists 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 specialist 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 engineering specialists possess?

Brian George Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Thomas Jefferson University and Philadelphia University

As far as soft skills, the ability to communicate verbally and via writing, work together with people from different backgrounds, and brainstorm and critical thinking are all important soft skills, such as networking.

What hard/technical skills are most important for software engineering specialists?

Brian George Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Thomas Jefferson University and Philadelphia University

Hard/technical skills needed for a position may be dependent upon the position itself. It is hard to say exactly what hard/technical skills are the most important without knowing the exact job description, but knowing how to find information to solve problems can be as important as knowing how to do the required work. Knowledge of engineering will be important for our graduates, but sometimes having experience or knowledge in other fields can be just as valuable, as is the ability to read technical papers and patents and understand them.

What software engineering specialist 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 specialists 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 specialist 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 specialist skills to add to your resume

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

Java
Software Development
Python
Windows
API
C
C++
Linux
CSS
Software Products
User Interface
Visualization
Software Applications
Debugging

Technical Support
HTML
Unix
XML
Configuration Management
Software Design
Html Css
Test Cases
Prototyping
MATLAB
UI
PHP
PL/SQL
C Net

Perl
GUI
Cots
SQL Server
Regression
Ruby
Customer Support
Oracle Sql
UAT
QA
Ethernet
UML

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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