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Software systems engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

7 min read

Quoted experts

Austin McCoy,

Sal Aurigemma Ph.D.

Software systems engineer example skills

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical software systems engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for software systems engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 11.1% of software systems engineer resumes contained java as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a software systems engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 software systems 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 systems engineers use java:

Programmed using an open source operating system running open industry standardized drivers with a rich Java application.
Worked as Java developer and system integration tester.

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 systems engineers use python:

Implemented python tool for generating detail configuration reports on distributed scale-up and scale-out appliances.
Developed custom python applications for secure transmission of patient billing information.

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 systems engineers use software development:

Worked across complete software development life cycle by coordinating requirement analysis, technical design, coding, testing and documentation.
Led development and test engineers in understanding product requirements and resolving related defects through two software development life cycles.

4. Architecture

Here's how software systems engineers use architecture:

Determined the software architecture for a future wireless video conferencing, MP3 and speech recognition applications using a combination microprocessor/DSP configuration.
Research and recommend network topology and architecture with high-precision calculation of network equipment placement and physical channel across 5 sq.

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 software systems engineers use linux:

Developed Linux library routines, which provided data and communications to the front-end call processing applications.
Automated process using Perl on Linux that expedited testing user scenarios and increased consistency.

6. Software Systems

Software system is a system of components that form the software part of a computer. The major categories of software systems include application, programming, and system software.

Here's how software systems engineers use software systems:

Developed multiple levels of software systems documentation for a new state-of-the-art military satellite radio, working with DOD MIL-STD-188-XXX series specifications.
Related software systems to hardware product development for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace and scientific applications.

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7. C

Here's how software systems engineers use c:

Developed object-oriented design and programming in C, VB script, Batch script, and several tools including WinBatch, AutoIT.
Modified a simulator program for Software Test Equipment written in Microsoft C to simulate the environment of the Mission Computer Interface.

8. 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 systems 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.

9. Emerging Technologies

Here's how software systems engineers use emerging technologies:

Investigated existing and emerging technologies and products that would effectively complement Compaq Systems Division solutions engineering strategies.
Conducted research and hands-on testing of emerging technologies.

10. 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 systems engineers use database:

Participated in the design and development of a prototype relational database system; was responsible for SQL processor/optimizer and query parsing.
Utilized document control software to initiate, analyze, implement software change request related to developmental documents and hardware database.

11. Software Design

Here's how software systems engineers use software design:

Negotiated technical aspects of proposals, accommodated schedule change requests, and resolved software design trade-offs with customer.
Provided software expertise throughout program life-cycle, including requirements analysis, Ada software design and system integration.

12. Debugging

Here's how software systems engineers use debugging:

Performed all aspects of system management including system performance tuning, configuration design, troubleshooting and debugging of software programs.
Participated in many debugging sessions on-site at the Microsoft Corporate Campus.

13. Cloud Computing

Here's how software systems engineers use cloud computing:

Owned several key client and server elements, based on AWS IaaS cloud computing.
Set department technical direction, including initiating the move of our n-tier services into Azure cloud computing.

14. DOD

Definition of Done (DoD) is a set of deliverables that are needed to devise software. These deliverables are valuable to the system and can be exemplified by writing code, coding comments, unit testing, integration testing, design documents, release notes, and so on.

Here's how software systems engineers use dod:

Provided systems and software engineering support across numerous DoD programs.
Worked with the prime contractor of the SENSOR (DOD) program to validate software requirements and assure code met government standards

15. SAN

SAN abbreviation for storage area network is a computer network that provides storage access.

Here's how software systems engineers use san:

Worked as a team in the design and implementation of new Fiber and SAN technologies.
Tuned, redesigned network and SAN infrastructure to increase backup speed for large customer enterprises.

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What skills help Software Systems 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 systems 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 software systems 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 systems 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 systems 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 software systems engineers need?

Gagan Agrawal

Professor, Augusta University

I feel that the skill set needed in computing fields has held quite steady for some amount of time now. You will need a combination of basic software and problem-solving links. You need the ability to work on projects with others and learn new languages or technologies on your own. Communication skills are always important. Companies like graduates who have taken the initiative and done projects outside classwork - this shows that you really enjoy work, and you are motivated and driven.

Lately, there are specialized sectors like security or Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning that are seeing a lot of action. If you want to be in either of those spaces, you need to take electives accordingly and probably do projects in these areas on your own (and/or possibly take online classes). But then, there are classical areas, like database programming, that still employ many.

What technical skills for a software systems 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 systems engineer skills to add to your resume

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

Java
Python
Software Development
Architecture
Linux
Software Systems
C
C++
Emerging Technologies
Database
Software Design
Debugging
Cloud Computing
DOD
SAN
Embedded Systems
Jenkins

Object Oriented Programming
System Design
API
Unix
Configuration Management
Source Code
Distributed Computing
UI
Amazon Web Services
Visualization
Confluence
Test Procedures
Tcp Ip
CSS
SQL Server
Technical Support
System Integration

Perl
Software Applications
Azure
Management System
HTML
National Security
Test Cases
Virtualization
Prototyping
XML
Regression
QA
Strong Analytical
Test Scripts
NASA

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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