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Staff programmer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

6 min read

Quoted experts

Chris Sexton,

Chris Sexton

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical staff programmer skills. We ranked the top skills for staff programmers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 9.4% of staff programmer resumes contained database as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a staff programmer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 staff programmer skills for your resume and career

1. 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 staff programmers use database:

Participated in developing new relational database design and maintaining existing system.
Integrated database, spreadsheet, and communications applications into custom desktop.

2. COBOL

Here's how staff programmers use cobol:

Served as Customer Service Representative meeting with customers to better understand their requirements, then documenting and coding requirements using COBOL.
Participated in the design and testing of the conversion of the Sales Audit system from COBOL to Micro-Focus COBOL.

3. DB2

The DB2, known as the Relational Database Management System, is a type of procedure developed by IBM to run and operate software applications such as Windows, Unix, and the Linux System. This type of system is designed mainly for IBM but was innovated to run in various operating systems. The main feature of the DB2 is to handle and manage a big chunk of data while allowing the users to enter the database engine without any problem.

Here's how staff programmers use db2:

Assigned to contract with IBM Corp supporting in-house Parts Planning system PL/1, DB2, CIC, JCL, SQL
Developed dynamic web based database documentation of DB2, Oracle and SQL databases to increase accessibility of data definitions by developers.

4. PL/SQL

Here's how staff programmers use pl/sql:

Modified PL/SQL code so the SIU Application could call a PL/SQL method that handles email notifications.
Developed Oracle PL/SQL stored procedure and view-based Crystal Reports for reporting newspaper circulation statistics by region.

5. Mainframe

A mainframe is a high-performance digital computer used by large organizations for mission-critical applications, high transaction volumes, and reliable performance, designed for intensive high-speed computing for large-scale computing purposes that require greater availability and security which a smaller machine cannot offer.

Here's how staff programmers use mainframe:

Maintained existing mainframe system and participated in development many new applications.
Served initially as a member of a small group developing software connecting IBM mainframes with Metaphor servers over a new work.

6. HTML

Here's how staff programmers use html:

Support customers via SharePoint portal troubleshooting, configuring WebParts, and developing HTML based solutions within the SharePoint environment.
Worked directly with the project manager to implement advanced HTML and JavaScript solutions designed to accurately capture survey data.

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7. SQL Server

Here's how staff programmers use sql server:

Converted complex MS Access multi-million dollar application to Capitation Payment Adjustment System application (HNCAS) running against SQL Server.
Performed requirements analysis, designed and implemented a military targeting web application using Cold Fusion and SQL Server 2000.

8. Unix

UNIX is a computer operating system that was first created in the 1960s and has been constantly updated since then. The operating system refers to the set of programs that enable a machine to function. It is a multi-user, multi-tasking device that works on computers, laptops, and servers. UNIX systems also have a graphical user interface (GUI), similar to Microsoft Windows, that makes it simple to use.

Here's how staff programmers use unix:

Developed test suites for UNIX utilities in Shell and C programming language.
Project Leader of two development efforts for Berkeley UNIX 4.3.

9. 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 staff programmers use web services:

Developed an N-tier Web Service/Windows Service/ASP.NET application that allows administrators to gather critical system information from a single ASP.NET web page.
Modified Struts configuration files as per application requirements and developed Web services for non java clients to obtain user information.

10. Management System

A management system is a set of policies, processes, and procedures taken by an organization or a business to ensure it can fulfill its tasks and achieve its objectives. A management system makes sure that the company excels financially and improves the user experience. The management system also takes care of the worker's and employees' needs and manages their workload and oversees their performance. Apart from interior matters of the company, a management system also deals with exterior matters like legislations, tax matters, and law issues.

Here's how staff programmers use management system:

Managed new technology integration and coordinated the evaluation, and implementation of Quality management system and custom solutions.
Designed and coded an API interface for the Network Configuration Management System (DB2/C application) on the RISC/6000.

11. JCL

Here's how staff programmers use jcl:

Function Test Team Leader JES3 Applications Programmer - Assembler PL/I, JCL, Utilities
Respected and rewarded professional who optimally and expertly utilized JCL to effectively convert home grown utilities to FILEAID.

12. C

Here's how staff programmers use c:

Designed and implemented 3-D and multimedia programming interfaces, software components, and network protocols in C and C++.
Develop software applications using Pascal, C language, System 7 and S/370 Assembler Language.

13. 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 staff programmers use c++:

Implemented C++ library to provide abstracted IBM 3270 terminal communications and allow rapid development of applications.
Designed and implemented prototype for reverse engineering C++ code into an object-oriented design tool.

14. CICS

Here's how staff programmers use cics:

Provided timely, thorough and professional support for all CICS System Environment facilities.
Worked on CICS and batch systems.

15. Life Cycle

Here's how staff programmers use life cycle:

Developed a web-based case management application for tracking the life cycle for federal tax information provided by the IRS.
Defined, implemented and trained other programmers on use of the SDLC (System Development Life Cycle) standards.

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What skills help Staff Programmers find jobs?

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

What skills stand out on staff programmer resumes?

Chris Sexton

Visiting Lecturer of Computer Science, Indiana University Southeast

The biggest thing that stands out to me in a candidate is how much effort in self-improvement is apparent on the resume. A candidate that lists a few jobs and bullet points of skills is acceptable but not impressive. But on the other hand, a candidate that lists a portfolio of projects to show those skills are real and how those skills made them a game-changing employee at their previous jobs is a clear winner.

What soft skills should all staff programmers possess?

Chris Sexton

Visiting Lecturer of Computer Science, Indiana University Southeast

Teamwork is the obvious soft skill that is vital. It encompasses more than just being willing to work together but also includes strong documentation skills, textual communication skills, and precision in language. For an example of precision, which of the following is a task that can be completed:
"The login system will require strong passwords."
or
"The login system will require passwords of no less than 16 characters including at least two numbers and two non-alpha numeric characters."

It is easy for an engineer to be lax and use informal language that subtly confuses development efforts, but the valuable candidate will have strong technical communication skills.

What hard/technical skills are most important for staff programmers?

Chris Sexton

Visiting Lecturer of Computer Science, Indiana University Southeast

As with soft skills, technical skills in teamwork matter, a candidate must have the ability to work with revision control, be it git or some similar system. In addition, it is vital that fundamental computing skills such as operating the shell of a Linux machine are good signs that a candidate will be able to adapt to new systems.

What staff programmer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

James Sellmann Ph.D.

Dean, Professor of Philosophy and Micronesian Studies, University of Guam

General advice is to keep in mind that you must leverage your skills, especially your soft skills of being able to work with people, to communicate effectively and to be able to solve problems. Be real. Don't try to pretend to be someone else to impress others. Be your authentic self. And show up on time.

Do you want to know more?

List of staff programmer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a staff programmer resume and required skills for a staff programmer to have include:

Database
COBOL
DB2
PL/SQL
Mainframe
HTML
SQL Server
Unix
Web Services
Management System
JCL
C
C++
CICS
Life Cycle
MVS

PC
Front End
User Interface
Application Development
Software Development
DOS
SAS
ASP
Production Environment
AIX
SharePoint
VSAM
QA
GUI
Inventory Control
XML

Windows NT
IMS
Computer Programs
TCP/IP
Control Systems
Lotus Notes
VM
Linux
RPG
HR
Apis
Web Application
MVC
Legacy Systems
EDI
AS/400

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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