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30 Software Engineer Resume Examples Designed for 2024

Stephen Greet

  • Software Resumes
  • Software Engineer Resumes by Experience
  • Software Engineer Resumes by Role

Writing Your Software Engineer Resume

If you’re looking to take the next step in your software engineering career, there’s no better time than now, especially with many companies releasing salary information thanks to  pay transparency laws across the states .

You have the skills and experience to land your next software engineer job, but figuring out  how to write a resume  is entirely different.

We’ve analyzed countless developer resumes seeing what works and what doesn’t. That’s why we’ve written 30 software engineer resume samples that have  helped developers get jobs at top tech companies like Google, Uber, and Twilio .

Whether you’re wondering how to use ChatGPT to write a resume or are already  checking your resume  for improvements, you’re in the right place to help you get more interviews in 2024!

Software Engineer Resume Example

or download as PDF

Software engineer resume example with 10 years of experience

Why this resume works

  • Always check the job description and the company’s mission statement to determine what you should include in your resume. If you have experience that doesn’t fit into your software engineer resume, but you still want to include, you can try to add some in your  software engineer cover letter .
  • Try to include metrics relating to revenue, increased user counts, or increased efficiency. There are numbers there; you just have to find them!

Software Developer Resume Example

Software developer resume example with 9 years of experience

  • Because of the amount of niche positions, you need to be careful when titling your resume. Always adjust the title on your resume to match the job to which you’re applying.
  • Even if your work experience is different from the description, you can include some of the necessary skills and keywords. However, if your work experience is vastly different from the job description, you might want to consider applying for a different type of job.

Software Engineer Student Resume Example

Software engineer student resume example with project's experience

  • As long as you have relevant project experience, you’ll be good to go. Plus, points for a strong career objective that clearly labels why you’re joining a company and your main aim after being hired.

New Grad Software Engineer Resume Example

New grad software engineer resume example with internship experience

  • A word of caution: resist the urge to feature just anything in your piece. Instead, strive to unearth duties and wins relevant to the target company and its KPIs. Talk about using Jenkins for integration automation, building custom UIs with Django, optimizing databases with MySQL, and more.

Software Engineer Intern Resume Example

Software engineer intern resume example with data entry experience

  • Companies will understand that you’re just starting out in your career, so including technical courses like ‘Computer Organization and Architecture’ in your software engineer intern resume will show them you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals.

Software Engineer New Grad Resume Example

Software engineer new grad resume example with internship experience

  • If you’re a recent grad, employers will understand that you have limited work experience but would like to see some proficiency in the technical aspects of the job. Use the job description to know the company’s requirements and adjust the skills you include in your software engineer resume to align with what the company is looking for.

Entry-Level Software Engineer Resume Example

Entry-level software engineer resume example with internship experience

  • Plus, a template lets you easily adjust stylistic elements like color, font type, and layout. Make your resume as unique as you are!
  • The first option is to demonstrate your ability to create and maintain new projects that are easily scalable and solve real problems. You can include college projects, personal projects, or even start something new so you have something to add!
  • The second option is to show off any internships you’ve gotten. You can treat them just like work experience, but you can include it in your work experience or projects section.

Junior Software Engineer Resume Example

Junior software engineer resume example with 6 years of technical support experience

  • Your time as a developer in a personal endeavor may have involved several responsibilities and accomplishments that make for a worthy addition to your junior software engineer resume.

Associate Software Engineer Resume Example

Associate software engineer resume example with 1+ years of training experience

  • Of course, if you have more than 10 years of experience, use a  resume summary  instead. Objectives and summaries aren’t too different, but summaries have more achievements and experience.
  • Personal pronouns like “I,” “me,” and “my” take up space, so cut them out.
  • Use active voice and active verbs to make sure your work experience bullet points are as short as possible.

Senior Software Engineer Resume Example

Senior software engineer resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • Highlighting a lengthy career with multiple software engineering roles is key to getting noticed, especially when you pair it with quantifiable data from various sources.
  • Always check the job description to get an idea of what the employer wants to see. Try to include six to eight skills in your  resume skills section  to give a wide range of your available skills.
  • Focus more on adding technical skills, but you can include a few soft skills to highlight how well-rounded you are.

Experienced Software Engineer Resume Example

Experienced software engineer resume example with 7 years of experience

  • For example, take the case of a Certified Software Development Associate (IEEE) certification included in this resume. It’s credible evidence that proves you have a concrete understanding of software design, testing, maintenance, and quality assurance—all of which are integral to any software engineering role.

Mid-Level Software Engineer Resume Example

Mid Level Software engineer resume example with 5 years of experience

  • Your mid-level software engineer resume should give prominence to accomplishment metrics that touch on your application tools competencies, process streamlining, project timeline reductions, and ability to utilize resources to meet outcome expectations.

Lead Software Engineer Resume Example

Lead software engineer resume example with 7 years of experience

  • Your lead software engineer resume will go up a notch once you mention a master’s degree in computer science. It gives more credibility and shows that you’ve professionally learned how to lead other engineers and also keep systems running smoothly.

Java Software Engineer Resume Example

Java software engineer resume example with 7 years of experience

  • But don’t forget to quantify your contribution. Try using multiple metrics in one bullet point to be extra flashy and prove that your Java skills are second to none.

Front end Software Engineer Resume Example

Front end software engineer resume example with IT technical support experience

  • If you don’t have the best technical highlights, add names of the most famous companies you’ve worked for in your front end software engineer resume. They can alone show that you weren’t hired for nothing.

Amazon Software Engineer Resume Example

Amazon software engineer resume example with 7 years of experience

  • Create an unmatchable Amazon software engineer resume by listing your best achievements so far like “Grew Amazon Prime subscriptions by 18%” to show your to-be employer you’ve got what it takes to leverage technology and use it to drive better customer experience metrics.

Software Quality Engineer Resume Example

Software quality engineer resume example with 6 years of experience

  • We know automation’s a big part of this job, but it doesn’t mean you spam the word in every bullet point. Draw out other important impacts you’ve created on the job such as reducing coding errors and expanding test coverage to be a standout candidate.

Backend Software Engineer Resume Example

Backend software engineer resume example with 7 years of experience

  • Then, why not let your piece showcase your eye for detail? Take the time to go through it, ensuring every line is polished to perfection. While tools like Grammarly can be handy here, they aren’t foolproof, so be critical of the suggestions. Even better, enlist a friend or family member—a fresh pair of eyes might catch something you missed.

Staff Software Engineer Resume Example

Staff software engineer resume example with 7 years of experience

  • Did your overhauling MYSQL schema indexation expedite data access? Mention time saved in hours per month or week. Can you recount how many technical guides you built or published or how many users benefited from your software programs? Specify the numbers. Dollar-amount savings should also suffice in your metrics.

Software QA Engineer Resume Example

Software QA engineer resume example with 9 years of experience

  • Subsequently, choose a template (preferably Elegant) that gives ample spacing in the skills section for you to write down all the things you’re an expert at. Keep things simple by using a good color accent and let loose on all your past work experiences.

Director of Software Engineering Resume Example

Director of software engineering resume example with 13 years of software engineer experience

  • It is paramount that your director of software engineering resume shows your numbers for managing teams, cutting costs, expediting processes, and properly managing and prioritizing resources to exceed targets and goals.

Software Engineering Manager Resume Example

Software engineering manager resume example with 3+ years of experience

  • Adding measurable results to your software engineering manager resume will help an employer evaluate the progress and results you’ve brought to companies you’ve previously worked with. This simple addition of observable statistics can go a long way in setting your resume apart from the crowd.

Google Software Engineer Resume Example

Google software engineer resume example with 5 years of software engineer experience

  • For instance, adding tools and cloud-based services under the Google Cloud umbrella to your Google software engineer resume shows the company you’re well-versed in multiple development solutions.

Principal Software Engineer Resume Example

Principal software engineer resume example with 3 years of experience

  • While you may have several hobbies and interests, ensure you include those most relevant to the role you’re applying to. Participating in coding challenges and hackathons shows you’re passionate about software engineering, even outside work hours—something any employer will love to see!

Python Developer Resume Example

Python developer resume example with 6 years of experience

  • That’s why it can be useful to include a projects section. Of course, you want the majority of your resume to focus on work experience, but if you’ve got some unique experience that might fit the  software engineer job description , consider adding this optional section.
  • We’d recommend making your  web developer skills  section about 70 precent technical skills, but you can include soft skills for the rest. 

Software Engineer Front-End Resume Example

Software engineer front-end resume example with 7+ years of experience

Full-Stack Software Engineer Resume Example

Full-stack software engineer resume example with 9 years of experience

  • Include multiple programming languages in your  resume skills section  to increase your value and better fit the ATS screening criteria.
  • Start by reading the  software engineer job description  and looking for repeated keywords. You can also look at other local software engineer jobs to look for more key phrases to include.

Embedded Software Engineer Resume Example

Embedded software engineer resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • This will inform recruiters and hiring managers that, in addition to your technical coding skills, you have applicable knowledge of CPU architectures, operating systems, and more. You can also include soft skills related to communication and collaboration to showcase your ability to work with teams.
  • This is the perfect place to briefly convey your achievements, your experience, and what you hope to accomplish at your future company. Always tailor it to each job for which you apply!

Software Integration Engineer Resume Example

Software integration engineer resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • Your layout should have a good “visual voice” that’s as unique as you are, so don’t be afraid to play with colors, font types, and layouts. So long as it’s easy to read, format your resume to match your style!
  • For example, did you start working with a team and end up leading a team? That’s an excellent example of scalable growth!
  • Highlight versatile skills (like types of tools you’ve used) and scalable achievements to prove that you can improve your future workplace!

Security Engineer Resume Example

Security engineer resume example with 10+ years of experience

  • Our special  resume tip : cut the fluff away from any novice jobs to leave more room for more impressive credentials you got later in your career.
  • Demonstrate how your programming skills have evolved or how your interpersonal abilities helped advance your team. And be sure to back your claims with data! 
  • Having a variety of jobs shows that you’re well-rounded with a host of skills you may not have obtained otherwise.
  • Show this off in your work experience bullet points with a mix of transferable skills and unique abilities from other positions.

Related resume guides

  • Scrum Master
  • Tableau Developer
  • Program Manager
  • Web Developer

Content employee smiles and works at desk with blue laptop and coffee mug

When you apply for an engineering job at a company, the first person looking at your resume is actually not a person. Companies use something called an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to filter out a majority of applicants for a role based on keyword matching.

If you pass this initial scan, your resume will get reviewed by a non-technical recruiter. Then at long last, the technical hiring manager will look at your resume.

So, how do you write a resume that will get you through all these hoops to get that first interview? That’s what this guide is designed to help you do!

We’ve analyzed numerous resumes from software engineers and to come up with valuable  resume tips  to get your foot in the door.

Here’s what we’re going to cover in this guide:

  • What to put in the vital skills section of your resume.
  • How to properly  format your resume  to appease the ATS filters, including what sections to include or omit.
  • How to talk about your work experience and personal projects to convincingly appeal to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • How to customize your resume for each job to which you apply (it’s easier than it sounds).

sample resume for software engineer

Software engineer skills for resume

The skills section is a vital part of your software engineer resume. This will make or break whether you get through the first phase of the resume review, aka the dreaded ATS scan.

Your  resume’s skills section  shouldn’t be a laundry list of frameworks and programming languages. Especially don’t try to include what you wouldn’t be comfortable coding; just reading about Java is not enough to have it in your skills section.

The worst thing that can happen is that you claim knowledge of a programming language and then can’t answer basic questions about that language in an interview. It’s much better to have true expertise in one programming language than to claim knowledge of 10 different languages.

Good hiring companies know that quality engineers can learn new frameworks as needed. So, it’s a big red flag if you list every programming language under the sun.

There are a few options for organizing your skills section on your resume. First, you can organize them by your proficiency level. You can use categorizations like “Advanced” vs. “Familiar” or “Expert” vs. “Working Knowledge.”

Skills organized by proficiency

Skills organized by proficiency

Or you can organize them by the type of skill you’re discussing. So you can separate the programming languages you know, the frameworks, the tools, and the databases you’ve used.

Skills organized by skill type

Skills organized by skill type

Finally, you can list the programming languages you know and include the frameworks associated with that language you’ve used. You can also list your years of experience with that language. This is useful for recruiters, but it can take up a lot of space on your resume, so make sure your resume format allows for an extended skills section.

Skills organized by years of experience

Skills organized by years of experience

Software engineer resume format

Threading the needle of making your resume ATS-readable, HR-readable, and technical-hiring-manager-readable is not an easy task. So, try to quantify your achievements without getting too in the weeds (while also not being too broad).

General formatting tips

The most important  resume formatting  tip that you should internalize is making your resume one page long, maximum. Recruiters spend, on average, only  six seconds reviewing your resume . They’re not going to read a several-page resume.

Here are the quick hits for how to properly format your resume:

  • Keep it to one page.
  • Avoid long paragraphs of text to make it readable.
  • Bullet points should be self-contained, complete ideas.
  • Keep your tenses consistent. Refer to old roles and projects in the past and refer to your current position in the present.
  • Avoid pronouns like “I” or “we.”
  • Check for grammar and spelling errors . Don’t let this be the reason you don’t get the job!

It’s tough to fit all of your projects and work accomplishments on a single page, but remember, you’re more than your resume. Recruiters understand this and know if a resume looks good initially, they can ask more questions in the interview.

Your goal with your resume isn’t just to include your best talking points; it’s also to make the life of the person reviewing it as easy as possible. Make sure you don’t have long paragraphs of text so it’s easier to read. Break up your would-be paragraphs into singular ideas that are more appealing to the reader.

Bad bullet point formatting

Designed and built out the backend for a client application that enabled users to build their own recipe books. Used Angular on the front-end and NodeJS on the back-end. Working closely with product managers, scaled this application to 200,000 users and generated annual revenue of $1.4M. (If you’re still reading this, then well done, because it’s far too long.)

Good bullet point formatting

  • Designed and built out the back-end for a client application that enabled users to build recipe books.
  • Used Angular on the front-end and NodeJS on the back-end. Working closely with product managers, scaled this application to 200,000 users and generated annual revenue of $1.4M.

Your bullet points should be self-contained, so you don’t need periods after each point. Within your bullet points, make sure your verb tenses are consistent (past tense is preferable).

Also, we’d recommend avoiding singular pronouns, so don’t use “I” or “we.” They waste time and look unprofessional, so don’t include them. For example, instead of saying, “I worked on building the back-end for a project,” you should say, “Worked on building the back-end for a project.” There are plenty of ways to avoid saying “I.”

Lastly, please  review all grammar and spelling . Don’t give recruiters or hiring managers an easy excuse for someone to put you into the “no” pile. Too many great software engineers don’t  check their resumes  and leave typos and punctuation errors.

Contact information and title

Your name should be the first thing on your resume, and it should be listed in a bigger font. Directly underneath it, you should include a title. This title should always be the job for which you’re applying. So, if your current title is “software engineer” and you’re applying for a senior engineering role, your title should be “senior software engineer.” After your title, include your contact information, including:

  • City and zip code (you don’t need to give your specific address)
  • Email address (make sure it sounds professional and includes your name)
  • Telephone number
  • LinkedIn profile URL
  • GitHub profile URL
  • Personal website (if you have one)

And although you know already to review your resume for typos,  triple-check your contact section  for anything that’s incorrect. We once had a great engineer misspell his email here, and although he was a great fit for the role to which he was applying, the company couldn’t contact him, so he didn’t get an interview!

This may seem like a lot of information to include, but you can make it compact. Here’s a great example:

Sample contact information

What you include in the education section of your resume will vary depending on whether you’re applying for an entry-level software engineering role or a more senior role.

Regardless of your seniority, you should always include the school you attended, the year you graduated, and your major. If you had a minor or a specific concentration, include that.

If you’re applying for anything  other  than an entry-level role, that’s all you should include in your education section. Why? Because real estate is valuable on a resume, and your work experience and projects will convey more about your qualification than your GPA or college courses.

Suppose you’re  applying for a software engineering internship  or  looking for your first full-time role . In that case, your education section will be more expansive to accurately convey your qualifications. Plus, you’ll want to mention relevant courses to the role for which you’re applying. For software engineering roles, this means any classes related to software engineering. Took a databases class? Completed an algorithm design course? You get the idea.

If you want to include your GPA, make sure it’s above a 3.2. Otherwise, leave it out.

Entry-Level Software Engineer Education

Entry level software engineer education

Senior Software Engineer Education

Senior Sofware engineer education.

Software engineer resume summary

Unless it’s done exceptionally well, we strongly recommend that you don’t include a  resume summary  or objective on your software engineer resume. Why? Because they rarely, if ever, convey meaningful information to the person reviewing your resume. Let’s break down a typical objective statement:

Sample software engineer resume objective

I have 3+ years of experience, and I’m looking to leverage my Django expertise to work on challenging problems as a Senior Software Engineer.

There isn’t anything new in this objective. Their 3+ years of experienceand Django expertise should be demonstrated in their work experience. There’s no customization for the specific job, and it’s far too short.

Remember, recruiters typically only look at your resume for six seconds. Don’t make them waste precious time on anything that doesn’t demonstrate new information about why you’re a great fit for the role.

Anything unique to your situation or circumstance (for example, you’re undergoing a career change) should be discussed when creating a cover letter . You can elaborate on what you’re looking for in your next role without the constraint of space.

sample resume for software engineer

Work experience

Your work experience section is, without a doubt, the most important section on your resume. This is where a resume reviewer spends most of their time and attention. It’s here that they’ll decide whether they want to move you onto the first stage of the interview process. So, this is not the place to be humble. Show off the good work you’ve done.

If you’re a junior developer, this section will be shorter (in favor of a longer “Projects” section). If you have two-plus years of work experience, this should take up the majority of the space on your resume.

So how do you talk about your work experience convincingly? The key is to  be specific  and  quantify the impact of your work  whenever possible.

Developers rarely work in complete isolation, especially at larger companies. So you must tease out what you did specifically on each project. If you worked as part of a team to turn a multi-page web app into a single-page app, and you were in charge of re-designing the back-end infrastructure for the new app, talk about that specifically.

Good work experience description

Architected the new back-end in Ruby to change multi-page primary product into a single-page app, resulting in $1.2M in annual incremental revenue.

Bad work experience description

The team changed our primary product from a multi-page app to a single-page app, resulting in $1.2M in annual incremental revenue.

Notice that when talking about your actual work, you want to be specific about your particular role. However, when talking about the project’s impact, you can talk about the overall effect that the team had.

Again, quantify the impact of the projects you worked on whenever possible. Businesses hire engineers to move the company forward, and the best way to demonstrate you can do that is to show you’ve had a measurable impact in your past roles.   Rough estimates of impact are okay if you don’t have exact numbers; just be reasonable and logical in your assessments.

Here are some other ways you can try to quantify your work:

  • Reduced downtime by X%
  • Improved the speed of the application by X%
  • Implemented a product feature that improved customer retention by X%
  • Improved customer satisfaction (as measured by NPS) by X%
  • Built a feature that improved click-through rate by X%
  • Scaled a product that successfully handled X concurrent users
  • Automated a process that saved X hours of manual labor each week
  • Improved a product feature that increased usage by X%
  • Worked on a project that led to a cost savings of $X
  • Implemented unit tests that improved test coverage by X%
  • Fixed a bug that reduced customer complaints by X%  

The formula for discussing your work experience is “my specific contribution to a project” + “the overall quantitative impact.” This describes the same work experience, just in different ways.

Let’s look at an example of this in action to see how effective it is.

Good: Specific contribution plus quantitative impact

Good: Specific contribution plus quantitative impact

Bad: Vague description and no quantitative impact

Vague description and no quantitative impact

Software engineer resume projects

The size of your projects section on your software engineer resume should be directly tied to your seniority level when applying for a developer job. The more junior your role, the more space you should allocate to your projects.

If you have more than two years of experience, you should only list one project of which you’re especially proud. Most of your resume should be composed of what you did in your previous jobs.

Try to talk about your projects in the same way you would talk about your work experience. The goal of your projects is to demonstrate your technical skills in context. Show how you used a language or framework to build something that satiated your curiosity or solved a problem.

Your projects should give more color to your skills section. While it’s great to say you know Ruby, it’s even better to say how you built the back-end of your movie recommendation engine in Ruby. Anyone can list a skill on their resume, but showing how you used that skill demonstrates even stronger mastery of that skill.

If you worked on substantial coding projects during school, you should include them here. When possible, always include the projects you’ve listed on your resume in your Github profile or on your personal website.

Here’s the format of how you should talk about your projects on your resume:

  • Describe the problem you were trying to solve and how you solved it at a high level. In the example above, “Built an Android app to allow party-goers to vote on what song should play next.”
  • Next, discuss some technical details in either one or two bullet points.

Again, you’re trying to demonstrate two things to a hiring manager with your projects. First, you want to give context to the skills you list on your resume. Next, you want to show that you can identify a problem and then implement a solution to solve that problem.

sample resume for software engineer

Interests & hobbies

If you have a bit of extra space and have a hobby or interest that might interest employers, you should include it. Some companies appreciate personality, so this would be the place to highlight that.

sample resume for software engineer

Customize your resume for each job

We know, we know; customizing your resume is tedious. But we have some good news! You don’t have to overhaul your resume for each job to which you apply. You will likely have to change one or two bullet points on your resume for each application.

Read the  software engineer job description  for the job to which you’re applying. Do any particular projects you’ve worked on or languages you’ve used come to mind when reading it? Those should absolutely be included in the resume you submit for that role.

Now, let’s say you’re applying for the following role:

sample resume for software engineer

Clearly, they want an engineer who has experience developing APIs. So, instead of just one bullet talking about my experience building out APIs, you should allocate two to three bullet points to my work.

When customizing your resume for each job you apply for, be sure to expand on the work experience or projects you’ve worked on that are especially relevant to the position at hand.

sample resume for software engineer

How to write an effective software developer resume

Here are the major takeaways you should keep in mind when  writing a professional resume :

  • Keep your resume to one page.
  • Proofread your resume  multiple times  to avoid any grammar or spelling errors.
  • If you’re applying for an entry-level role, mention any relevant college courses. Otherwise, don’t let your education section take up a lot of space.
  • Unless you tailor it, you don’t need a summary or objective section on your resume.
  • Only include skills for which you’d be comfortable being interviewed.
  • Always mention your specific contribution and quantify the overall project’s impact on the business.
  • If you’re applying for an entry-level role, talk about any personal coding projects you worked on.

Remember, the goal of this resume is to get your foot in the door. Once you get that first phone interview, your skills and personality will surely shine through.

Applying to new jobs can be daunting, but one of the most complex and most confusing parts is now over. You’ve done the research, and you’re ready to  write your resume ! You can use our free  AI resume builder  to start your resume from scratch or a template, and our  free resume checker  uses AI-powered tips to suggest improvements and resolve errors.

You’ve got the knowledge; now go land your dream job!

Create my free resume now

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Resume Examples Software Engineer Resume

13+ Software Engineering Resume Samples & Keywords (New Data)

sample resume for software engineer

Check out our software engineer resume examples written based on requirements from real job ads to get ideas for your own resume. Pair it with a polished software engineer cover letter to elevate your application.

An example of a software engineer resume featuring gray and yellow accents

If you’d like something else, our library of free resume samples has plenty of options.

Software Engineer Resume Template

Top in-demand software engineer skills

More job-specific software engineer resumes

Average software engineer salaries in the us, how to write a resume for a software engineer, frequently asked questions, additional resources.

Begin building your resume by adding this content to any of our resume templates .

1234 Elm Street, City, State, ZIP | (123) 456-7890 | [email protected]

Professional Summary

Skilled Software Engineer with 5 years of experience in developing scalable web applications, specializing in programming languages and backend development. Strong in requirements analysis, testing, and API integration, with a proven ability to deliver high-quality software solutions on time.

Professional Experience

Tech Innovations Inc. | Software Engineer

January 2021 – Present

  • Developed and maintained scalable web applications using various programming languages, leading to a 20% increase in application performance.
  • Conducted comprehensive requirements analysis, reducing project scope creep by 15%.
  • Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams, enhancing teamwork efficiency by 25%.
  • Implemented CI/CD pipelines that reduced deployment times by 40%.
  • Led debugging and troubleshooting efforts, decreasing critical system downtime by 30%.
  • Managed API integrations that improved system interoperability, supporting business growth by 10%.

Future Tech Solutions | Junior Software Engineer

January 2019 – December 2020

  • Assisted in backend development for key projects, contributing to a 15% increase in backend processing speed.
  • Provided detailed documentation for software processes, enhancing team knowledge sharing.
  • Conducted testing and quality assurance, reducing bug occurrence by 20%.
  • Supported requirements gathering sessions, aiding in the accurate definition of project deliverables.
  • Completed tasks 10% ahead of deadlines while working independently.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | University of California, Berkeley

Graduated: May 2018

Certifications

Certified Java Programmer | Oracle

Obtained: 2019

Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) | Scrum Alliance

Obtained: 2020

  • Programming Languages
  • Backend Development
  • Requirements Analysis
  • Testing and Debugging
  • API Integration
  • Documentation Skills
  • CI/CD Implementation
  • Teamwork and Communication

The most in-demand software engineer skills

Hiring managers look for software engineers whose resumes align with the skills emphasized in their job ads.

To help you identify the most relevant skills to highlight on your resume, we analyzed software engineer job listings from multiple job search platforms.

Our research reveals that these 10 keywords appear most often in software engineer job postings:

Skill% of job listingsHard or soft skill?
Programming languages95%Hard
Teamwork75%Soft
Academic degree72%Hard
Requirements analysis44%Hard
Communication skills42%Soft
Speed & efficiency30%Soft
Testing22%Hard
Documentation18%Hard
Independence16%Soft
Research skills14%Hard

Looking for more resume examples? Start by looking at these 12 additional software engineer resume samples:

Entry-level software engineer resume

An entry level software engineer resume sample

Why this example works

  • This entry-level software engineer resume includes a projects section to make up for the applicant’s lack of work experience
  • The resume design is clean and simple, making a professional impression
  • The applicant lists relevant courses in the education section to demonstrate their breadth of knowledge

Computer science resume

Computer Science Resume Example Template

  • This resume objective specifies which operating systems and programming languages the applicant is familiar with
  • In the experience section, they highlight relevant internship experience
  • The bullet points on this computer science resume focus on achievements instead of duties

Python developer resume

Python Developer Resume Sample

  • The applicant uses hard numbers in the experience section to demonstrate the impact of their work
  • The skills section of this python developer resume effectively showcases the applicant’s technical abilities
  • Each bullet point begins with a powerful action verb

Web developer resume

A web developer resume sample on a template with a blue header

  • The applicant uses a resume summary to highlight their extensive experience in the field
  • They mention how much money they helped their current company save through successful security initiatives
  • This web developer resume follows a standard chronological format, which is what most employers prefer

Full stack developer resume

An example of a resume for a full stack developer on a simple two-column template with a light gray sidebar and clean sans-serif fonts

  • A two-column design is perfect for a full-stack developer resume like this, where the candidate has extensive experience and needs more space for their professional experience section
  • The applicant includes their LinkedIn URL, allowing employers to easily access more information about their work history
  • The skills section focuses on key hard skills like popular coding languages and frameworks, which is what employers will primarily be looking at when hiring for a full stack developer role

SQL developer resume

An SQL developer resume sample

  • The applicant organizes their skill section by grouping their skills together under two different categories
  • The layout of this SQL developer resume allows the applicant to fit a lot of information on one page, without it looking overwhelming
  • The education section takes up the least space because they already have several years of experience behind them

Front-end developer resume

A front-end developer resume example

  • It includes resume keywords often found in front-end developer job listings, such as a degree in computer science, teamwork skills, and testing
  • The applicant’s contact information is listed at the top, just below the header so employers don’t have to search for it
  • A front-end developer resume should mention which tech stacks the applicant has used for various projects, which this resume does

Java developer resume

A Java developer resume sample

  • The thin lines separating the different parts of this Java developer resume makes it easier for hiring managers to skim
  • In the resume summary, the applicant explains not just their work history, but also their professional goals
  • A well-organized skills section like this gives employers a quick but comprehensive overview of their abilities

.NET developer resume

An Example of an .Net Developer Resume

  • By providing specific examples of their accomplishments in previous roles on their .NET developer resume , the applicant gives employers an idea of what they can do for them, if hired
  • Action verbs show that they take initiative at work which is something hiring managers look for when hiring .NET developers
  • Because they already have almost a decade of experience, they keep the education section brief, leaving more room for their work history

Programmer resume

A programmer resume example

  • Programmers should stick to traditional template designs and muted colors, like in this programmer resume example
  • Because the skills section is placed at the top, as soon as they lay their eyes on this resume, employers will be able to tell that the applicant has the skills they’re looking for
  • For this experienced applicant, the education section is the least relevant and therefore located at the bottom of the resume

UI developer resume

UI Developer Resume Template

  • The applicant starts off their resume summary with an adjective to highlight one of their best traits as a UI developer
  • The large, colorful (yet professional) resume header is sure to catch hiring managers’ attention
  • To better describe their achievements, the applicant quantifies their UI developer resume by using numbers and percentages in their work experience section

Database developer resume

A database developer resume sample with the applicant's contact information in a black bar under the resume title, followed by sections for the applicant's resume summary, professional experience, education, and additional skills

  • This template uses subtle design elements to make the database developer resume more visually interesting
  • In the resume introduction, the applicant mentions what they want to achieve in the role
  • The work experience section shows career progression, indicating that they take their professional development seriously

The following table includes information from O*NET Resource Center by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. The data is presented based on the top states in the USA.

Average software engineer annual salaries by state

StatesSalary / Year
California$168,660
New York$145,470
Texas$127,000
Florida$122,310
Pennsylvania$111,910
Illinois$126,200
Ohio$107,560
Georgia$127,070
North Carolina$130,620
Michigan$103,830
National Average$118,750

Whether you’re an entry-level software engineer or a senior developer, you need to know how to structure your resume to best reflect your experience and qualifications.

With various software engineering skills, languages, and methodologies, you may be confused about what to include when space on your resume is limited.

Keep reading to learn how to create a strong software engineer resume that successfully targets the position you’re applying for.

1. List relevant software engineer skills

When listing your software engineer skills, make sure to be transparent about your familiarity with a given language and skill, especially if it’s mentioned in the job description. A good way to demonstrate your proficiency is to provide concrete examples of how you applied your skills and what the results were.

Here are a few tips to help you effectively work relevant skills into your software engineer resume:

  • Find crossover skills relating to the job posting
  • Research the company as much as possible before applying
  • Write a strong, convincing resume summary like an elevator pitch
  • Ensure you emphasize the skills listed in our table of in-demand software engineer skills at the top of this page
  • Send a generic resume or lie about your skills for a job
  • Make sweeping assumptions about the role
  • Write a career objective section instead of a career summary

Remember to incorporate skills you’d like to highlight throughout the different sections of your resume, not only in a dedicated resume skills section .

2. Back up your accomplishments with numbers

When listing accomplishments throughout your resume , one of the best ways to make your resume stand out is to add hard numbers to your bullet points. Adding numbers to a key result helps demonstrate your value to potential employers.

Here are a few examples of how to do this effectively:

Quantified resume bullet points

  • Designed an internal website for agents and management, saving an average of $8,000 in labor costs per week
  • Led a development project for a web scraping program in Python to help the firm download public data, including over 6,000 company descriptions and stock quotes, to increase research efficiency by over 40%
  • Implemented a new caching mechanism, reducing database query times by 18% and improving overall application performance
  • Optimized codebase, decreasing application startup time by 23% and enhancing user satisfaction scores by 12%
  • Resolved 100+ bugs within tight deadlines,  ensuring uninterrupted service for clients
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to integrate third-party APIs, resulting in a 30% reduction in development time for feature implementation
  • Contributed to open-source projects with code contributions leading to 500+ stars on GitHub and recognition within the developer community

3. Tailor your resume introduction to the job description

Tailoring your resume to each position you apply for increases your chances of getting an interview because you demonstrate that you possess the exact qualifications the employer is looking for. Additionally, showing that you’ve done thorough research on the company makes you seem more motivated.

First, research the company and take note of their products, technologies, and goals. Then, read through the job description paying special attention to requirements and desired qualifications.

When writing your resume introduction , try to highlight skills and experiences that demonstrate how you can help the business meet their needs. Work these keywords naturally into your resume, like in these software engineer resume summary examples:

Experienced software engineer with a proven track record of delivering high-quality solutions in fast-paced environments . Proficient in Java , Python , and JavaScript , with a strong foundation in full-stack web development and the ability to work efficiently with minimal supervision . Seeking to leverage expertise in building scalable and efficient software systems to drive innovation at [Company Name].

Dynamic software engineer with 5+ years of experience developing robust applications for diverse industries. Skilled in C++ , Python , and SQL , with expertise in designing and implementing scalable architectures . Committed to continuous learning and staying updated on emerging technologies to deliver cutting-edge solutions.

Innovative computer science graduate with a passion for open-source development and community engagement . Contributed to several high-impact projects on GitHub , receiving accolades for code quality and collaborative contributions. Excited to bring creativity and expertise to a dynamic team environment at [Company Name].

LaTeX is a popular word-formatting tool for software engineers. We’ve compiled the best LaTeX resume templates and matching LaTeX cover letter templates if you prefer to use this software.

4. Strengthen your resume with additional sections

  • Credentials
  • Language skills
  • Certifications and licenses
  • Awards or notable accomplishments
  • Personal projects
  • Volunteer experience

In particular, adding a section for personal projects on your resume is a good way to show that you’re a qualified engineer, even if you don’t have much traditional work experience.

Adding additional sections to your resume will help you stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting hired for the job you want.

Similar to extra sections on your resume, hiring managers can learn more about you if you write a cover letter that complements your resume. By expanding on your resume with concrete examples, you’ll be on your way to snagging that interview.

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about writing a software engineer resume.

What should be included in a software engineer resume?

A software engineer resume should include the following sections:

  • Contact information
  • Resume introduction
  • Work/relevant experience

You can also include additional sections like projects, certifications, or awards to give employers a better idea of your abilities.

How do I make my software engineer resume stand out?

To make your software engineer resume stand out, focus on convincing employers you have the technical skills they need.

Look at job descriptions for your target job title and write down common skills that you see appear over and over. Then, list them on your resume under your skills section and explain how you’ve used those skills in the past in your experience section.

What do I put on a software engineer resume with no experience?

When you lack prior work experience, include personal or academic projects, volunteer work, internships, extracurriculars, or other relevant experiences that will help you prove your software engineering skills.

Are you just entering the job market and considering a job as a software engineer, or are you thinking about switching careers? Watch software engineer and YouTuber Brian Ruiz share his experience of the industry to help you make a decision:

sample resume for software engineer

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Software Engineer Resume [2024] - Example + How-to Guide

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You’re a software engineer. You use your talents to build the future.

Well, once you get the job.

There’s one thing in your way:

The huge pile of other resumes sitting on the recruiter’s desk.

It’s time to make your talents stand out.

In this guide, we take you through a step-by-step process to creating a software engineer resume that gets results.

  • An example of a finished software engineer resume that works
  • How to write a software engineer resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
  • How to make your software engineer resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

For some inspiration, here’s a software engineer resume example, created with our very own online resume builder :

software engineer resume sample

Looks good, right?! Now it’s time to create your own.

Besides the software engineer resume example, we've got a bunch more examples for professionals in the computer science field:

  • Java Developer Resume
  • Web Developer Resume
  • Computer Science Resume
  • Artificial Intelligence Engineer Resume
  • Engineering Resume
  • Data Scientist Resume
  • Data Analyst Resume
  • Data Entry Resume

How to Format a Software Engineer Resume

Now, before you can highlight your talents, you need to format your resume correctly. 

Your resume should be easy to read and not be hard work for the recruiter to skim through. 

The “reverse-chronological” resume format  is the most commonly used format, and we can see why. It positions your top talents at the top of your resume, so the recruiter can immediately see your value proposition.

reverse-chronological format software engineer

These software engineering resume formats also get our approval…

  • Functional Resume – If you have strong software engineering skills, but a small amount of work experience, this resume format is recommended
  • Combination Resume – The final format combines both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological” formats. As such, it is ideal for software engineers who have skills AND work experience.

Once you’ve chosen your format, you need to organize your resume layout .

Use a Software Engineer Resume Template

Word is a great application for creating documents.

Creating a resume with text editors is a different story all together!

This is due to formatting issues.

In fact, there’s a chance your entire layout will fall apart as you make alterations. 

Want to skip any formatting issues? Use a software engineer resume template .

What to Include in a Software Engineering Resume

The main sections in a software engineering resume are:

  • Work Experience
  • Contact Information

Want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

  • Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

But wait – what should you write for each of these sections? 

Read on to learn how.

Want to know more about resume sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, this section doesn’t need any creativity, but it must be factually correct. 

Play close attention to this section – the last thing you want is an impressed recruiter who wants to interview you, but can’t contact you!

The contact information section must include:

  • Title – Align this to the job description, which is “Software Engineer”
  • Phone Number – Check this multiple times
  • Email Address – Use a professional email address ([email protected]), not your childhood email ([email protected])
  • (Optional) Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
  • Lauren Hill - Software Engineer. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
  • Lauren Hill - Ninja Software Engineer. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Software Engineer Resume Summary or Objective

Here’s a shocking fact for you –

Recruiters spend less than 6 seconds on each resume .

With hundreds of resumes to get through, it’s no surprise that recruiters simply glance over resumes looking for the most important information. 

As such, you want to make the most important information clear to see.

The best way to do this is via a resume summary or objective , which are snappy paragraphs that go on top of your resume.

Their purpose is to quickly highlight why you are the best candidate for the software engineering job. They can be seen as a “small preview” to the rest of your resume.

software engineer resume summary

But what is the difference between the two sections?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your professional experiences and achievements.

  • Experienced software engineer with a strong background in developing award-winning strategies for a diverse clientele. 12+ years of industry experience includes leading large engineering teams to achieve concrete goals on a strict deadline. Strong skills include Database management and MySQL, .NET and Java.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of what you want to achieve professionally.

  • Motivated software engineer looking to pursue a successful career in software development at Company X, where I can help in the delivery of state-of-the-art software solutions. Experience includes coding, troubleshooting, and testing for my own personal projects while at University X. Relevant skills include PHP, Data Structures, Machine Learning, and Debugging.

So, which one is best for your situation, summary or objective?

Generally, we recommend experienced software engineers go with a summary. If you have the skills but lack the industry experience, you should choose a resume objective (graduates, career changers, or those still studying).

How to Make Your Software Engineer Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters want to know that you can do the job, and do the job well. The easiest way to instil confidence in the recruiter is with your work experience.

Here’s how we recommend you structure your work experience section:

  • Position name
  • Company Name
  • Responsibilities & Achievements

Software Engineer

ElectronicsX

03/2017 - 07/2020

  • Built an ecommerce site integrated with multiple payment APIs for a 32% in company revenue
  • Developed new infrastructure to easily handle over a million client files 
  • Consistently achieved 100% compliance with industry best practices
  • Reduced security breaches by 84%

To separate your resume from the competition, you should highlight your top achievements. Doing so will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits in hiring you.

Instead of saying:

“In charge of infrastructure”

“Developed new infrastructure to easily handle over a million client files”

Simply put, the first statement doesn’t say much.

This is in direct comparison with the second statement that shows how your work benefited the company greatly. Hard numbers that prove your skills – can’t argue with that!

What if You Don’t Have Work Experience?

Not everyone will have a wealth of work experience.

Maybe you’re a graduate looking for your first engineering job?

The question is how to tackle this part of your resume when you have no experience.  

The answer –

Talk about your internship experience, volunteering work, or any achievements at your place of education. 

You can even create a portfolio of your own work!

There are several ways to build a portfolio (and even get paid for it):

  • Pick up some relevant freelance gigs on UpWork
  • Start you own software project as a side-hustle

Are you recent engineering graduate? Make sure to check out our student resume guide!

Use Action Words to Make Your Software Engineer Resume POP!

…are all common words that the recruiter sees time and time again.

However, you don’t want your resume to resume the competition, which means you should use power words to make your achievements stand out:

  • Conceptualized
  • Spearheaded

B.A. in Software Engineering

The University of Chicago

2012 - 2016

• Relevant Courses : Software Engineering Project, Distributed Systems Development, Information Systems Modelling, Specification of Software Systems, Software Evolution, Software Quality, Agile Methods

Now, you may need more information. If so, here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

What if I haven’t completed education yet?

  • Regardless of whether you’re an engineering graduate or still studying, you should still mention every year of education to date

Should I include my high school education?

  • Generally, only include your highest form of education. Therefore, include your high school education if you don’t have a relevant degree in engineering

What do I put first, my education or experience?

  • Experiences are the priority, so those go first. If you’re a recent graduate, you will likely need to start with education

Need more information? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a Software Engineer Resume

Your software engineer resume must do one thing—

Show that you’ll do a better job than the other candidates.

But how can you do this? 

Well, by highlighting the right software engineer skills on a resume.  

This is done by looking at the job description, and then comparing the skills needed with the skills you already have.

Put all relevant skills on your resume. Here are the most commonly used skills for a software engineer resume:

Hard Skills for a Software Engineer:

  • Data Structures
  • Machine Learning
  • Web Development

Soft Skills for a Software Engineer:

  • Creative Thinking
  • Communication
  • Time-Management
  • Team Player
  • Try to sprinkle your skills throughout the document, not just in the skills section. You can drop some of your skills in the resume summary, education section, and work experience section.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 101+ must-have skills this year .

What Else Can You Include?

That’s all of the essentials covered.

But ask yourself one question –

Does your resume stand out ?! 

The above sections should be enough to get you onto the shortlist, but adding some extra sections could be the deciding factor between you and another candidate.  

Awards & Certifications

Have you won an award for your engineering work?

Have you completed any courses that improve your skills?

If you have any awards or certifications, be sure to list them in your resume!

Here’s an example:

Awards & Certificates

  • “Advance Software Engineering” - Coursera Certificate
  • “Critical Thinking Masterclass” - MadeUpUniversity

Even though you will unlikely need to speak an alternative language in your job, the skill is still impressive to any recruiter. As such, feel free to add a language section if you have space.

Rank the languages by proficiency:

  • Intermediate

Now, you’ll probably thinking, “why is my love of fishing relevant to the job application?”

Well, listing your hobbies allows the recruiter to get to know who you are.

They can also show that you’ll be a good part of the team, especially if you enjoy social activities. 

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Cover letters are just as important as they always have been.

You see, a cover letter instantly makes your application specific and more personal. 

Unlike a generic resume that has been sent to ten other companies, a cover letter shows the recruiter that you want to work for their company.

For a winning cover letter, you need the correct structure. Here’s what we recommend:

cover letter structure for software engineering

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Your full name, profession, email, phone number, location, and website (or Behance / Dribble).

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

As the recruiter will likely skim through your application, you need to win their attention within the first few sentences. Use concise language to mention:

  • The position you’re applying for
  • Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Now it’s onto the main body of the cover letter, where you should delve into the following specifics:

  • Why you want to work for this specific company
  • What you already know about the company
  • How your engineering skills will help you to do the job
  • Which similar positions have you held before

Closing Paragraph

To wrap up your cover letter, you should:

  • Conclude the main points made in the body paragraph
  • Thank the recruiter for the job opportunity
  • Finish with a call to action that leaves the conversation open, such as “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help company X” will work

Formal Salutations

End the letter in a professional manner. Something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Congratulations!

If you followed the advice above, you’re well on your way to landing that elusive software engineering role.

Before we go, let’s summarize the main points:

  • Format your software engineer resume correctly. Use the reverse-chronological format, and then follow our layout recommendation
  • Use a summary or objective at the top of your resume
  • Highlight your achievements in your work experience section
  • Make sure your portfolio is the best it can be. If you don’t have one, think about getting one
  • Include a convincing cover letter to separate you from the competition

Suggested Reading:

  • Guide to Green Careers - All You Need to Know
  • How to Answer “What Is Your Greatest Strength” [4 Samples]
  • Why Should We Hire You - 10+ Best Answers

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Software Engineer resume examples & templates

Software Engineer resume examples & templates

Choosing the best resume format for a software engineer

Use your header to include contact information, make use of a summary, compile your software engineer work history: manage your workflow, curate a list of the key skills that make you an exemplary software engineer, detail your education & relevant software engineering certifications, choose the right layout and design for a software engineer resume, what type of salary can you expect in software engineering , software engineer resume example.

A software engineer resume is like the user interface for your connection with potential employers or clients. By design, it can be your next ticket to success from a career launchpad aimed at infinitely higher and wider targets all the time. 

Entry-level Software Engineer Resume Example

How does a resume get you an interview? By presenting a clear story of success.

When you meet with clients, you discern what it is they need and repeat it back to them to create a first impression that you are an active listener who can deliver what they need. A software engineer's resume performs the same function during your job hunt. Demonstrating that you can solve your prospective employer’s problems programs you for success.

Resume guide for a software engineer resume

For those who recognize the crucial difference between an acceptable and an outstanding job application, Resume.io is continually expanding its collection of practical tips and tools. That now includes more than 500 occupation-specific resume examples and writing guides, plus a resume builder .

This guide, along with a software engineer resume example, will take you step-by-step through the writing process with insights as follows:

  • How to write a software engineer resume, including the correct structure and best format
  • Section-by-section advice for crafting your software engineer resume, optimizing the impact of the header, summary, employment history, education, and skills content
  • Professionally engineered resume design and formatting hints
  • What software engineers earn, and how their future looks

Let’s get started.

How to write a software engineer resume

Software engineering requires adherence to structure, and so does any resume for a software engineer. The following are the elements to include:

  • The resume header
  • The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
  • The employment history section
  • The resume skills section
  • The education section

Your resume is designed with one purpose in mind, to answer the question, “Why should I interview you?” To accomplish that, you need to gather as much information as possible about the role, the company, its IT systems and its culture. Then, you can speak directly about how you will fit into the team and what contributions you will make. 

Here are the fundamental tenets to remember as you compile your software engineer resume:

  • A work history bullet item illustrating an achievement is much more compelling than one that names a responsibility.
  • Speak directly to the job for which you are applying. In other words, target your audience by personalizing every application.
  • Reflect on your professional personality in the content and design of your software engineering resume.

Software engineers can pursue opportunities as company employees or independent contractors. They may be courted relentlessly by head-hunters and business leaders in a multitude of burgeoning industries. 

Beyond the more obvious technology sectors, opportunities are endless in areas from healthcare, automotive manufacturing, and green energy to remote sensing, aeronautics, and finance. Lucrative positions are available in all manner of government, private, and non-profit organizations. 

Beating applicant tracking systems

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are used by popular employers to screen supposedly undesirable candidates, sending only the best resumes to human recruiters. This is done based on keywords in your resume.

Seize the opportunity to outshine the savviest of other software engineers whose ATS-busting resumes will be fully loaded with all the same keywords. The more times you scrutinize the job description language, the better — often, even one word or abbreviation related to a desired skill can be the difference between getting to the interview or not. So, make sure you. Just don’t overstuff your resume with keywords and end up sounding like a robot.

How do you add keywords without sounding fake? Aside from your skills section, where you can simply list the attributes from the job listing, consider inserting phrases into both your summary and work history sections. 

Here are software engineer resume examples that include specific desired traits from a job listing:

Summary sentence: Software engineer with 5+ years of experience in object-oriented design, TypeScript , and C++.

Work history bullet item:   Created website for appliance repair company using React and Redux

From an engineer’s analytical and strategic perspective, consider which of these three resume formats is the best fit for your job experience.

The most widely used chronological resume format is failsafe if you’ve worked mostly as an employee for one organization at a time. Your progressive job experience, skills, and accomplishments are traced under employer headings in reverse chronological order, from most recent to earliest dates. 

But if your job history is more project-based, perhaps in mostly contract positions, then the functional resume format might work well. A functional or hybrid structure can also be useful for highlighting specialized skills or accomplishments, especially if relevant to where your sights are set now.

There is no right or wrong choice, but possibly a better one to bridge your past and future. Again, always think about what each prospective employer expects or should know about your employment history. It’s yet another custom-tailoring strategy.

The header of your software engineer resume should be distinctive enough to set your job application apart from the rest. With no extra effort but double the impact, use the same header design for your resume and cover letter so they look like a matching pair.

The header’s main purpose is to display your identifying information prominently so readers will see it first and can easily retrieve it when contacting you later: your name, occupation/job title, phone number, and email. If you have a LinkedIn profile, that should also appear in the header, along with a link to your online portfolio of work samples.

Leave out any information about your private life, such as your marital status or identifying numbers, that could lead to identity theft. Do not include a photograph . HR personnel are sensitive to any potential for bias in hiring.

Theodore Martin

Software engineer

[email protected]

(617) 781-3542

www.tmartin.com

Geek extraordinaire

An awesome software engineer resume summary — some call it a profile or personal statement — is where you become the envy of every peer who may be vying for the same software engineer job. But that’s not the point. You’re not trying to impress your competitors. 

The only other IT experts you should care about are those who may have a say on the hiring side, even if it’s not the first or last word on who gets the job. So, first things first. Your resume summary must be flawlessly efficient in capturing attention for longer than the six or seven seconds that studies contend is the worthiness average. 

Limited page space dictates conciseness, without selling yourself short. Don’t be shy or unduly modest, but don’t boast or exaggerate either. Let your stellar track record as a software engineer speak for itself. Use clear, precise, descriptive language in a few terse statements. Omitting “I am” or “I have” helps with word economy. So do action verbs such as: equipped, executed, excelled, built  … and, of course,  engineered. Add modifiers that are appropriate but not overblown: proficient, robust, rapid, striking, nimble, agile, solution-focused, innovative, and cutting-edge.

Not sure how to put your software engineer resume together? Have a look at these related IT resume samples below:

  • Systems Analyst resume sample
  • Technical Project Manager resume sample
  • Computer Science resume sample
  • Network Engineer resume sample
  • IT Director resume sample
  • Software Engineer resume sample
  • Film and Video Editor resume sample
  • Motion Graphics Artists resume sample
  • Network Systems Analyst resume sample
  • 3D Animator resume sample
  • Software Developer resume sample
  • Web Developer resume sample
  • Programmer resume sample
  • Data Scientist resume sample
  • IT manager resume sample
  • Data Analyst resume sample
  • IT Project manager resume sample

You can find adaptable software engineer resume example summaries below:

Newly-minted software engineer with dual degrees in computer engineering and mathematics ready to apply analytical capabilities to real business problems in a collaborative setting. Hands-on experience in Microsoft SQL Server, JavaScript and Python. Adaptable and dependable team player.

 Business-focused software engineer with 5 years of experience designing, developing and deploying state-of-the-art solutions. Communicative mentor of junior team members and collaborator with cross-functional teams specializing in full-stack development. Committed to continued professional development to stay current in this ever-evolving field.

Results-driven software engineer with a decade of experience offering cutting edge engineering solutions and effectively guiding developer teams. Proven expertise in managing all stages of the software development life cycle. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to confidently execute software tasks from start to finish.

We’ve already covered the options for formatting a resume for a software engineer, with reverse chronological order being the most common way to organize someone’s work experience. However, this resume section might require some structural decisions you are best qualified to make. 

Whether it’s your first job change or the latest in a series, or your career path is geared more toward consulting opportunities, adaptability, and responsiveness are hallmarks of a software engineer’s career. 

Whatever structure you choose, optimize the space you have and maximize the impact through power-packed bullet point statements. Have a master list handy of incisive verbs describing what you’ve done and can do: analyzed, evaluated, created, designed, customized, built, augmented, bridged, spearheaded, streamlined, oversaw, solved, advanced, delivered, applied, debugged, persuaded, negotiated, collaborated, expedited, reconciled. 

Demonstrate tangible outcomes, not duties or responsibilities. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.

Below is the employment history section from our software engineer resume example.

Software Engineer at Revive Inc., Boston  June 2016 - Present 

  • Define, develop and implement guidelines to ensure code quality.
  • Provide troubleshooting support to a 12-member team of developers and engineers.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to deliver innovative advancements, including three award-winning applications.
  • Instrumental in building and improving tools to boost overall team efficiency by 28%.
  • Mentor and lead junior developers, including 12 who were subsequently promoted or recruited by other companies.

Junior Software Engineer at Untold Designs, Boston  June 2013 - April 2016 

  • Provided optimal project support to development teams in a 125-employee IT firm.
  • Identified opportunities for product optimization.
  • Built and maintained web application for the accounting platform.
  • Contributed boldly original or pragmatically simple ideas during weekly software design discussions.
  • Problem-solved with various stakeholders.
  • Effectively managed priorities to meet or beat deadlines 96% of the time, often under tight time constraints.

Regardless of your occupation, the skills section serves a vitally important purpose on all resumes. Software engineers will appreciate the elegance and simplicity of making their key strengths impossible for any hiring manager to ignore by highlighting them in a carefully considered list. 

Zeroing in on what you most want under that person’s nose might be the easiest and fastest part of your resume-writing task. Be sure to include any skills that are stipulated in the advertised job requirements.

But don’t be too offhanded about this golden opportunity to convey that you are a remarkable software engineer, not just average. On each custom-targeted resume you create, reserve your skills list for the shiniest nuggets.

Pay special attention to the soft skills that may set you apart from other candidates. In fact, it’s possible the hard skills you have in common (which, ironically in this occupation, are software-specific skills) might not give you the kind of edge your resume should strive to display. Try brainstorming a master list of skills that you possess in any and all areas. Then - cherry pick the most appropriate ones for the job opening. 

Below is our example of a software engineer resume skills section that you can adapt to your own expertise.

Key skills and proficiencies

But don’t stop at your skills list! Your entire software engineer resume should be infused with the attributes that make you great at your job. Consider illustrating:

  • Critical thinking with an example of a thorny development problem you solved and what tools you used to do so.
  • Cybersecurity expertise by explaining how you thwarted an attempted attack.
  • Programming talent with a description of software you engineered and the tools you used.

100+ Computer skills on a resume: What to list and where to revise

Computer skills should feature prominently in many resumes, but if you last performed these skills a while ago, do you need to refresh your knowledge? We look at the most popular computer skills and where to revisit your expertise.

Off the top in your resume's education section, your college degrees should be listed in reverse chronological order, from highest to lowest level.

The right combination of additional training, certifications, and skills development could give you a job-winning edge over other software engineers. Every post-college stride you’ve taken to keep your knowledge and skills current has a place on your resume.

Most software engineers receive on-the-job training as newly hired company employees. Off-the-job training opportunities abound for software engineers throughout their careers, from seminars and international conferences to specialized courses that help keep a pace of new technology.

Coding bootcamps have grown exponentially since the first program launched in 2011. Schools offer nontraditional pathways into software engineering to meet the demand for quick, intensive programming education outside the traditional university environment. 

Certification s available to software engineers include: Oracle Certified Associate and Oracle Certified Professional (OCA and OCP), Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) and Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP).

Professional association memberships also send the right message about taking your software engineer career seriously. Possibilities include Sigsoft , an Association for Computing Machinery interest group for software engineers, and the Transaction Processing Performance Council .

The education section below comes from our software engineer resume example.

Master of Computer Science, Northeastern University, Boston September 2014 - May 2016

Bachelor of Software Engineering, Boston College, Boston September 2012 - May 2014

Nothing less than a superior-caliber resume document is acceptable for software engineers. As we’ve emphasized before, put yourself in the hiring manager’s chair. Deliver on the expectation of a clean, user-friendly layout that does you justice.

The result should be eye-catching without being flashy or gimmicky. Keep it sleek, streamlined, and uncomplicated — inviting at first glance and disappointing no one reading further. And it goes without saying your resume must be character-perfect and bug-free in every other sense. Subject it to multiple beta test runs under anyone's scrutiny but your own. Tweak it further each time and do a proofreading reboot.

Fonts and size

Most tech-minded people (IT hiring managers included) widely favor sans-serif fonts popularized by web designers/developers and web-based companies. Fonts like Open Sans, Roboto, Arial, Calibri, Lato, Helvetica, and PT Sans will feel right at home in a software engineer resume. Incidentally, most of them can be found in the Google Fonts library or as standard inclusions on PC/Mac systems.

For font size, stick to a range between 10 to 12pts (11 pt is usually the sweet spot for your one-page resume).

While your designing eye could come in handy, we’re guessing you don’t have hours to spend reinventing unbroken wheels. Consider using one of our field-tested resume templates as the simplest and fastest way to achieve professional results. Choose a template you like from one of four style categories  — perhaps a simple or professional design would be most suitable. Then, enter your own replacement text using our resume builder tool.

Software engineer job market and outlook

BLS projections for software developers (again, software engineers are not classified separately) see market demand increasing by 25% between 2022 and 2032, much faster than the national average. And with 377,500 more jobs forecast in the computer and information technology workforce during the same decade, computer software engineers will have no shortage of job options.

Whether it was astute planning or lucky breaks that landed you on this trajectory in the first place, software engineers can afford to be choosy. Exceptionally lucrative job prospects are on offer as explosive IT growth appears unstoppable. Few occupations are as dynamic or less likely to stagnate from dried-up opportunities. 

Software engineers can pursue opportunities as company employees or independent contractors. They may be courted relentlessly by head-hunters and business leaders in a multitude of burgeoning industries. Beyond the more obvious technology sectors, opportunities are endless in areas from healthcare, automotive manufacturing, and green energy to remote sensing, aeronautics, and finance. Lucrative positions are available in all manner of government, private and non-profit organizations. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) $127,260 was the median annual wage in May 2022 for software developers (there is no separate data category software engineers, which are grouped together with software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers). For comparison, the average annual software engineer salary posted by Builtin.com is $136,295 in 2024, while Glassdoor.com puts base pay at $154,397. Salaries range from $72,401-$182,129.

Key takeaways for building a software engineer resume

  • The talents of software engineers are highly sought-after in virtually all industries globally. There are no sunsetting signs on this horizon, only continued explosive growth in IT economies.
  • It’s essential for software engineers to have a versatile and adaptable resume document for easy updates and tailoring to specific job and employer requirements. Speak the right language in each case, including carefully mined ATS-safe keywords from the job description.
  • Also think strategically each time about an intuitive resume structure and format that showcases your attributes to best advantage. Emphasize soft skills that might set you apart from your peers with similar technical skills.
  • The right resume design choices, found within the resume builder, help ensure you come across looking as good as you sound and get you into the job market faster.

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Software Engineer Resume: Examples, Tips, and More for 2024

Software engineers are highly sought after in the job market. Learn how to create your software engineer resume and stand out from the crowd.

[Featured Image]: Two software engineers work on a desktop computer.

Software engineers use their knowledge of programming languages and systems architecture to build software and applications for digital devices, such as mobile phones and personal computers. Today, software Engineers are increasingly important as more and more industries undergo digital transformations .  

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs for software developers – including engineers – is projected to grow by 26 percent between 2022 and 2032, resulting in about 153,900 new job openings each year throughout [ 1 ]. That’s significantly higher than the projected number of new jobs for all occupations in the country, which the BLS puts at just 3 percent during the same period. 

Yet, just because software engineers are in high demand doesn’t mean that you should apply to job openings without preparing first. Many software engineering jobs can be competitive, so it’s important to put your best foot forward when applying for a new job. And, crafting a great resume is one of the best ways to do it. 

In this article, you’ll find three different examples of resumes for software engineer positions of varying levels. Afterward, you’ll explore tips to improve your resume and explore flexible online courses that can even help you expand your skill set today. 

Software engineer resume examples

Your resume is an opportunity for you to showcase your experience, achievements, and expertise to potential employers. What you choose to show employers will differ based on the precise software engineer job you’re applying to.  

Here, we break down three different resumes for software engineers, including one for interns, one for entry-level job seekers, and one for senior-level positions. Plus, to help you craft the best possible resume, you'll also find software engineer resume templates and examples for each job.

Software engineer intern resume

Internships can be a great way for students and recent graduates to explore what it’s like to be a software engineer in the real world. Typically lasting only a few months, internships can be found at large, established tech companies like Google or Microsoft or at smaller start-ups that may only have a handful of employees. 

Usually, companies want internship applicants to highlight their interest in the position or company, their knowledge of the field through relevant coursework, and any achievements or skills that are relevant to the position.

As an intern, your resume doesn’t need to be filled with years of experience but should instead clearly demonstrate your interest in developing into a future software engineer and what you’ve done so far to develop toward your goal.

Software engineer intern resume example

Software engineer intern resume

Why it works

This resume is simple, professional, and clearly demonstrates the applicant's preparedness for an internship as a software engineer. 

The statement of purpose at the top outlines their personal objectives, while their related coursework indicates they’ve taken classes that can prepare them for the role. Ana also haad some related experience as a research assistant in college and a tutor in high school. Best of all, they demonstrated their impact as a tutor by noting their student raised their grades by one letter. 

They’re also smart about what to include. Ana highlighted their education at the top, emphasized their technical and people skills at the bottom, and even described activities they’ve done that are relevant to the position. Ultimately, while they don’t have extensive professional experience, it’s clear that Ana demonstrated interest in the field and has done a lot to one day become a professional in the field. 

Read more: How to Write a Resume with No Experience: 5 Tips

Entry-level software engineer resume 

Entry-level software engineer positions provide a great opportunity for early career professionals or job switchers to gain experience in the field. Typically, employers don’t expect applicants to entry-level software engineer jobs to possess extensive previous work experience, but they do usually expect job applicants to have knowledge of certain programming languages , experience working with teams, and a degree in computer science or a related field. 

If you’re creating a resume for an entry-level software engineer position, read the job posting to identify the experience and skills you possess that overlap with the position. Highlight these on your resume. In some cases, you may not have direct experience in the field, but you may have a related experience that allows you to highlight your transferable skills . 

Finally, don’t be afraid to apply to entry-level jobs with extensive “job requirements,” as these usually just describe the ideal applicant rather than the most realistic one. In fact, many employers are still happy to hire those without the “perfect” background. 

Entry-level software engineer resume example

Entry-level software engineer resume

This junior software engineer resume guides the employer clearly through the job applicant’s purpose for applying, their related work experience, and their qualifications for the role. Unlike the internship resume, this one puts the education section lower because Adam has work experience that is directly related to the position that they want to highlight for their potential employer. 

Although the applicant doesn’t have extensive work experience, they have worked on personal projects and even participated in activities that relate to the role. Finally, they emphasize relevant skills at the bottom so that hiring managers can quickly identify what they bring to the table. All of these factors ensure that the resume plainly explains Adam’s overall preparedness for an entry-level software engineer job. 

Read more: The Job Seeker’s Guide to Entry-Level Software Engineer Jobs

Senior software engineer resume 

Once you’ve gained some real-world experience as a software engineer, you’ll be ready to apply to senior software engineering positions. Typically, these positions involve more responsibility and may even require you to oversee the work of other engineers. 

Typically, employers like to see job applications demonstrating previous work experience that aligns with the role and showcases that the applicant has a comprehensive understanding of programming languages and software best practices, and is comfortable taking on leadership roles. When reviewing your resume, they’ll be looking to see that you have the people skills, technical skills, and experience required to take on a position that requires additional responsibility, such as leading key projects and mentoring more junior engineers. 

Senior software engineer resume example

Senior software engineer resume

This resume for a senior software engineer position works because it very clearly explains the applicant’s previous work experience, their qualifications for the position, and the skills they bring to the job. Unlike the past two resumes, this one has an expanded work experience section, which Charly uses to explain the most relevant duties and responsibilities they performed at their previous positions. 

Furthermore, the applicant demonstrates their impact at their previous positions by specifically stating the number of software systems they developed in their former role (three), how many junior developers they’ve mentored (five), and the positive impact they had on the organization by optimizing existing code (a 65-percent increase). All of this information further reinforces Charly’s preparedness for the position and gives the employer a sense of how the applicant could help them in the future too.

Read more: What Are Leadership Skills, and Why Are They Important?

Software engineer resume tips 

Hiring managers often only look at resumes for seconds. In that span of time, you must effectively highlight that you have the experience, qualifications, and software engineering skills needed to meet the job requirements. That’s a lot to do in a short amount of time, but with some careful planning and intention-setting, it’s possible. 

Here are some tips to help you craft a software engineering resume that stands out from the crowd. 

1. Format it properly. 

Your resume should only span one to two pages and include a header with your contact information, such as your name, job title, phone number, and email address. You should also include sections to describe your work experience, educational background, and skills relevant to the position.

In some cases, you may also include a resume section to highlight any notable accomplishments or certifications, such as IBM’s Full Stack Software Developer Professional Certificate or Meta’s Back-End Developer Professional Certificate . 

In your work section, list your jobs in reverse chronological order and note your job title, employer, and the length of time that you worked at each position. Describe key responsibilities using three to five bullet points below each title.

Finally, use an easy-to-read font, such as Helvetica or Times New Roman, throughout your resume and cover letter. Use size 11 to 12 front in the body of your resume and slightly larger 14 to 16 size font for each resume section heading. 

Read more: How to Make a Resume: 2024 Resume Writing Guide

2. Tailor it to the job. 

Although many of the positions you will be applying for will undoubtedly have many similarities, they’ll also have important differences that truly matter to employers. Rather than sending out one generic resume, consequently, it’s best to tailor your resume to each job. 

To do it, read through the job posting and identify the duties that overlap with your previous work experience. Next, emphasize that experience on your resume so that hiring managers get a sense of your preparedness for the role. Finally, use the skills section of your resume to highlight any human and technical skills that you possess that are also described in the job listing, such as your leadership abilities or programming skills. 

You should also consider peppering specific keywords found in the job description throughout your cover letter, resume summary, work experience, and skills section. This can be a good way to get your resume noticed by the applicant tracking systems (ATS) used by many recruiters. 

Read more: Resume Keywords: How to Find the Right Words to Beat the ATS

What skills should you put in your software engineer resume skills section?

The software engineering skills that you put in the skills section of your resume will depend on the position to which you're applying. But, that said, there are some skills you might consider adding to your resume.

Some workplace skills (or "soft skills") that you might consider highlighting include emotional intelligence, communication , critical thinking , collaboration , and time management . Some technical skills that you might highlight, meanwhile, include data management, familiarity with Agile methodologies, and knowledge of programming languages like Python and C++ .

3. Use action words. 

Action words are verbs that describe your previous work experience in impactful terms. Rather than using run-of-the-mill verbs like led or oversaw , consider using more descriptive verbs like designed, managed, or initiated . These kinds of verbs can help hiring managers get a better sense of your impact elsewhere, so they can start to imagine the value you’ll add to your new position. 

Read more: 120 Resume Action Words to Optimize Your Next Job Search

4. Highlight your transferable skills. 

Whether we realize it or not, we use many different skills every day of our lives. When you’re applying for a job in a new field, you might consider highlighting the skills you honed elsewhere that could transfer over to the new role. These are called your transferable skills and can include everything from collaboration and teamwork to project management and statistical analysis .

5. Emphasize your credentials. 

It’s always a good idea to highlight any relevant educational training you may have undergone that has prepared you for a job as a software engineer. This can include any degrees you hold, continuing education courses you may have completed, or relevant certifications. 

Recent graduates who lack related work experience may also choose to highlight their educational training by moving their education section to the top of their resume, below their resume summary. 

Get job-ready with Coursera 

Software engineers are integral to creating the software and applications that power much of the world today. If you’re looking to start a career as a software engineer, consider taking a cost-effective online course on Coursera to build job-relevant skills and prepare for your next job search. 

In IBM’s Applied Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization , you'll build the foundation of your career by gaining hands-on experience with Git, GitHub, Linux, and Python, and learning the fundamentals of Software Engineering in as little as two months.

In the State University of New York’s How to Write a Resume (Project-Centered Course) , you’ll review resume best practices and explore current trends with guidance from a professional career counselor and recruiter, as well as exchange structured feedback with your peers as you work to polish your own resume.

Article sources

1. US BLS. " Occupational Outlook Handbook: Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm." Accessed March 12, 2024.

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The Complete Software Engineer Resume Guide

Looking for a job as a software engineer? That’s exciting! Whether you’re changing careers  or just looking for your next job, this fast-growing industry offers career development opportunities galore. Plus, it can pay quite well .

With great pay and growth potential, the job hunt can be competitive. If you want a shot at a job interview, you need to know how to write a compelling software engineering resume, and you’ll want to create a web developer portfolio .  

Writing your first resume, or revamping your old one, can feel daunting. It doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ll walk you through the resume writing process step-by-step and give you plenty of software engineer resume examples. You won’t feel overwhelmed after reading this! 

In this complete guide, you’ll learn the following:

  • Do software engineers even need a resume?

Step 1: Work out your structure

  • Step 2: Gather your information

Step 3: Fill in your contact information

Step 4: add your three most relevant work experiences, step 5: list your education, step 6: include your skills.

  • Step 7: Share your certifications and awards
  • Step 8: List your software engineering projects

Step 9: Write your introductory statement

Step 10: proofread, mistakes to avoid when creating a software engineer resume, where to go for great software engineer resume templates.

Let’s start with the basics; why do you even need a resume? 

1. Do software engineers even need a resume?

Yes, software engineers need a resume. Many developers will tell you they’ve gotten multiple job offers with just a resume. Of course, they might not mention that they also had an active GitHub history, polished portfolio, or connection in the industry. But that’s beside the point.

The number one reason you need a resume to land a software engineering job is that almost every job you apply for will require you to have one. But secondly, your resume is how you’ll showcase your transferable skills . 

Even if you don’t have much experience with software engineering, you still need to create a software engineer resume. A compelling document with all your most relevant experience will showcase how you learned to code and the skills you can transfer to your new role.

You can also optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS)–but we’ll discuss that later. First, let’s learn how to create a software engineer’s resume that wins.

2. How to write a software engineer resume step-by-step

Okay, so we’re all on the same page now–you need a resume! But how do you write one? Buckle up! This is where we walk you through the resume writing process–one step at a time. 

This section may seem a bit long, but that’s because we’re going to go into every single part of your software engineer resume and make it as compelling as possible. Feel free to start writing your resume in another window while you read through each step. Learning while doing is often the most effective way! 

Resume layout (design) and copy (words) go hand-in-hand. If you don’t budget your words for the space you have, you won’t be able to fit it all on one page. It’s helpful to begin by choosing a resume template or layout. 

There are templates all over the internet for free that you can use! More on that later. If you don’t want to use a template, you can use the outline in Step 2 below to create your layout in a word processor, PDF maker, or graphic design tool. 

Step 2: Gather your information 

Before filling in your resume, open up a blank document or your notes app to gather the information you’ll need for your resume. If you’ve already optimized your LinkedIn for the job search, you might want to pull that up too. 

Here’s what you should include in your software engineer resume, from top to bottom: 

  • Contact information
  • Introduction paragraph
  • Work experience
  • Certifications and awards (optional)
  • Projects (optional)

Here’s a software engineer resume example with a great layout from BeamJobs . There’s even enough room to include certifications and awards in the left-hand column!

Here’s what you need to include in this section: 

  • First and last name 
  • Job title, branding statement, or subtitle
  • Email address
  • Cell phone number
  • LinkedIn profile
  • Website (optional)
  • Social media profiles (optional)
  • Physical address (optional)

Your contact information is the simplest part of writing a resume. But it’s being analyzed by recruiters as much as the rest of what you’ve written. Here are some tips for making this section as small and effective as possible. 

Under your name, you can include a subtitle listing your current job title or a one-sentence personal description. If you don’t have a current job title, you can put the job title you’re looking for or a more creatively branded title. For example, you could put “Entry-Level Software Engineer” or “Skilled Full-Stack Developer.” 

Firstly, if you want to come across as professional, make sure your email address isn’t your old AOL email address. I’ll admit it! My email was [email protected] until I got to college. But I would never put that on a resume. Instead, my email is a polished version of my first and last name with no numbers. 

To save space, you don’t need to include your physical address unless you apply for a fully in-person job that favors locals. You don’t need to include your social media profiles unless you’re a thought leader in the industry. You can also omit your website if you don’t have a software engineer portfolio website .

Here’s what your resume contact information section might look like, courtesy of Resume Worded : 

When you think about writing your resume, this is probably what you imagined. This part will be easier if you’ve already optimized your LinkedIn for the job hunt. If you haven’t, budget some time to gather everything you need. 

Before you dive into writing this section, you will need the following: 

  • A list of all of your relevant work experience (anything with transferable skills or software engineering)
  • Data points from your jobs to demonstrate your achievements
  • Information about your bootcamp, professional training program, or college (if you’re new to software development)

Once you have these items, you can start with the basics. Pick your top three-to-five most relevant experiences. Format each job on your list to reflect the structure outlined below.  

Here’s how to structure each of your experiences: 

  • Job title – bolded
  • Company name and the location where you worked – standard text
  • Dates of employment – italicized

Keep your structure consistent throughout your resume. There’s no right or wrong way to choose whether you’ll abbreviate. But if you abbreviate one state you worked in, abbreviate them all. If you spelled out the entire month of your employment, spell out every month. 

Next, list them chronologically, beginning with your most recent experience. Here’s the creative part! It’s time to describe your work experiences. It’s best to list three to five bullet points per experience. 

In your bullet points, include some quantifiable accomplishments that are data-proven and action verbs relating to tech but not jargon. Keep your tone present and active, not passive. 

This is a software engineer resume example, also from Resume Worded: 

If you’re a career changer, your college education might not be relevant to the job you’re applying for now. 

Regardless, you should still include it. If you don’t have much experience, you should include information about your software engineer education here in five bullet points. Cover what you learned, how you got hands-on experience, and the projects you did. 

If you already have software engineering experience, this section isn’t as important for you. You can simply include where you went to school and one bullet or less about relevant coursework. 

Whether you’re new to software development or not, you can elaborate on your undergraduate and graduate degrees in certain circumstances. If you were a double major or had a minor, you can list that too on your software engineer resume. If you had a phenomenal GPA, you could list it. But if your GPA was less than 3.8, you can leave it out. 

Here’s how to format your education: 

  • Name of program or degree — bolded
  • Institution and location—standard text
  • Dates attended — italicized

Each job you apply for will use a specific naming convention in the description like BS, b.s., bachelor’s degree, bootcamp, or boot camp. Try to edit this to match every job description. You may not always fit the education level specified in the listing. That doesn’t matter! You should still apply for it if you think you’d be a good fit. 

Here’s an example of what your software engineering resume might look like if you took CareerFoundry’s Full-Stack Web Development Program :

The skills section might be where you shine! Hiring managers and recruiters are looking for specific development skills and that’s why you should list them in the job description. For each coding job you apply for, you can customize this section to fit the job description. 

It shouldn’t need to be stated but—don’t lie! Run through the job description and pick the skills you’re proficient in. In this section, it’s usually best to only list hard skills . Group your skills by Expert, Advanced, and Familiar. 

Step 7: Share your certifications and awards (optional)

If you have any certifications or awards, include this section! But if you don’t, skip to Step 8. Keep this section of your software engineer resume brief. You only need one line per award; you can simply list each award or certification and the date you received them. 

Certifications can serve as proof to your employer that you’ve achieved a certain skill level. If that skill or certification is in the job description, include it in your resume. Whatever you list, include both the full name and the abbreviation. Obviously, only include certifications you’ve actually earned. 

For example, a software engineer’s resume skill section might look like this: 

Step 8: List your software engineering projects (optional)

If you’re looking to apply for software engineering jobs , you’ve probably worked on a few projects by now. Whether personal projects, open source, internships, freelance, or bootcamps projects, you can use them on your resume. 

Career changers and anyone new to software development should take advantage of this section. If you already have experience in software engineering, you probably don’t need this—simply list your portfolio in your contact information and move on to Step 9. 

Before you fill in this section, you’ll need a list of the projects you’ve worked on. If you have more than three, group your projects by type. You can use whatever categories seem fitting to you but consider ones like business projects, user interface projects , technical projects, mobile development, etc.

Here’s how to format your projects in your software engineer resume: 

  • Project Title — bolded
  • 2-sentence description—standard text
  • Skills—italicized

This is what your projects section might look like: 

You can hyperlink the title of your project to a portfolio piece with more details, the live project, or your GitHub. 

Stop now if your resume can’t fit on one page with more than just the title. But if you still have room, include a description of the problem your project solved, why you created it, and the client you made it for. Then, list the skills or tech stack you used to create the project. 

It might be odd to see the introductory statement as one of the last steps in the software engineer resume-writing process. Even though this goes at the top of your resume, we recommend you write it last. It’s much easier to write it at the end for most people. 

A summary statement is essentially an introductory paragraph. You’ll use these three-to-five lines to inject some personality into your resume. This is the first thing the interviewer will see. 

There are two ways you can approach this. You can either treat it as a summary or an objective . If you already have experience in software engineering, you can summarize your skills, experience, notable accomplishments, and education. If you don’t have experience, you’ll want to opt for an objective. 

With an objective, you’ll share tangible achievements from your bootcamp, professional training, college, or internship. You’ll also want to point out your transferable skills and career goals. 

This is the most challenging part of writing your resume. You’ll have less than 8 seconds to make a good impression on a recruiter or hiring manager. So, think of this paragraph as a hook to get them to keep reading. Here’s how to maximize your summary statement. 

Your summary statement should touch on the following: 

  • Your unique strengths, expertise, and transferable skills
  • Your personality traits that are relevant to the job 
  • Notable achievements 
  • The type of position or industry you’re seeking

Wherever possible, mention numbers or statistics to back up your statements. Rewrite your summary for every single job you apply for. It may feel tedious, but if you tailor it to that company and that role specifically, you’re far more likely to get straight to the recruiter screen and land an interview.

They might not notice if you have a spelling mistake on your resume, but typos never look good! Your summary paragraph is the most crucial thing to edit, but it doesn’t hurt to check over the entire thing. You can use AI editing software like Grammarly , or enlist a friend to proofread it. Better yet, ask your career counselor or mentor–if you have one! 

Okay, that might be a lot of information. We’re almost through with this complete guide. But before we let you go, we want to let you in on a few things you shouldn’t do when you’re writing your resume. 

Don’t use the same exact resume for every job you apply for

While it’s tempting to write your resume once and walk away, it’s not that simple. You should create your resume and edit it for each job you apply to. Adjust the objective statement, skills, and experience to reflect keywords in the job description. 

Don’t include any sensitive information on your resume

In the US you don’t need to include your date of birth, social security number, political affiliations, religion, or other personal details. These are dangerous to include, and they’re not relevant to the person who’s going to be reading your resume.

Don’t use fancy graphics

These days, most companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)  to screen applicants before sending software engineer resumes to a hiring manager or recruiter. Make your resume as text-based as possible: most ATS can’t read graphics well. 

Don’t send in your resume as a word document

Save it as a PDF before you submit it. 

Don’t let your resume exceed one page

If you can’t fit it all, omit the optional sections, trim down your experience descriptions, or reduce the skills you’ve included. 

If you want to use a resume template, ensure they’re ATS-friendly. There are plenty of beautiful templates out there with graphics and charts that won’t help you get an interview. 

There are hundreds of places you can go to get resume templates online. There are free and paid options. Most offer both free and paid versions. We rounded up the best resume template sites for software developers. Our favorites are the ones that tech professionals or coders created. 

Here are our top five favorite resume template sites:

  • BeamJobs —made by tech professionals for career changers, diverse tech workers, and experienced developers. 
  • Career Cup — founded by Gayle Laakmann McDowell, author of Cracking The Coding Interview
  • Resume Worded — LinkedIn and resume optimizer 
  • Kick Resume — a generic resume builder
  • JobScan — exclusively ATS-friendly resume builder

Writing a software engineer resume is not easy, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. As long as you remember to proofread your work, use a few keywords from the job description, and stay away from graphics, you’ll be golden. 

Whatever you do, tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for and include a unique introductory paragraph. And if you want to use a resume template, ensure it’s ATS-friendly. With these tips and the steps we outlined, you’re sure to write a stellar software engineer resume.

You’ve just finished the complete guide to writing a software engineer resume. Now get started creating yours, and prepare to apply for jobs. Good luck!

As students of CareerFoundry’s Full-Stack Web Development Program reach the end of their studies, they get paired up with a career specialist. Y ou’ll work closely with them to connect the dots between your previous accomplishments with your newfound coding skills.

Together, you’ll create a winning software engineer resume that showcases your talent, and carefully craft your online presence to appeal to tech employers. You’ll also fine-tune your technical interview skills , learning how to confidently market your experience and negotiate salaries.

If you’d like to learn more about the world of coding, check out these articles:

  • What Does a Backend Developer Do?
  • What on Earth Is CSS? A Beginner’s Guide
  • The Ultimate 2024 Guide to Frontend Developer Salaries

Software Engineer Resume & Writing Guide

Looking for a Software Engineer job? To get your resume up to professional standards it is essential to first check out top-notch Software Engineer resumes from the field. You want to make sure your resume is going to stand out from the rest by being both informative and compelling to read, without overwhelming the recruiter or hiring manager with irrelevant information.

How you create a resume into an interview-winning document, we will explain to you in detail below with this writing guide. We give you samples per resume section to help you efficiently craft a professional resume.

What you can read in this article

17 Software Engineer Resume Examples

Software Engineer Resume Example

Download these resume examples in PDF at the bottom of this page for free.

Software Engineer Resume Writing Guide

Resume sections.

1. Contact Information :

Be sure to include alternative contact channels like your LinkedIn profile URL details.

2. Profile Summary : View this as the introduction to your resume and include 1-3 sentences giving a broad overview of your background, years of industry experience and the industry sectors of interest plus a wow factor or qualification you have completed.

3. Qualifications Summary: Provide accurate details about the certifications and qualifications you have completed with the institution, qualification name, and dates. Don’t forget to include qualifications you are currently completing too.

4. Relevant Software Experience : Clearly state your employment history from the duration of your internship up to your current position. Use brief sentences with bullet points to list your most important daily activities under each role you have had.

5. Other Employment Experience : This will include projects or work history outside of the formal software engineering field, but which may be necessary for the employer to know of. This section is especially important if you are on a level slightly more junior than a Software Engineer. You need to reveal your software engineering experience gained unofficially while for instance in a vocational or temporary job to showcase your abilities to write code, program systems or develop applications.

6. Skills Summary/Key Skills : Incorporates keywords from the job posting and your specific skill set. These add much-needed credibility to your resume.

7. Education/Licenses/Certifications/Relevant Coursework/Training : Start with your formal training certifications and post-school diplomas or accreditations. List any professional development that better prepared you to work in the software engineering field like coding and development courses.

What to Highlight in a Software Engineer's Resume

A Asian American male Software Engineer's Resume Profile Profile

Regardless of your career tenure in software engineering, there are a few vital things that employers and recruiters need to know about you as to ensure that you are the right fit for their team.

Software engineers are essential members of development teams for new pieces of software. They perform integration functions between the scripts and codes written by the programmers and the product or interface that the end user gets to see. Software engineers are crucial to create product flow and often write code themselves to make the product functional for use.

The first aspect to highlight is the range of projects you have worked on. Mention the types of software you have created, tested and evaluated. These may include software for business applications, network control systems, middleware, operating systems, and even computer games or smartphone applications.

Software engineers may use various programming languages, sometimes up to three different ones in a specific project. Clearly, state and even bold the programming languages you are familiar with as they serve as suitability indicators to the recruiter or hiring manager. (View them as SEO keywords for your resume)

Next, Software Engineers can work with systems where they would design and implements data assurance and security protocols. Another type of software engineering function is focused on networking, which involves the complex design of the intranet and collaboration between company servers. As a Software Engineer, you may also be responsible for customizing applications for clients or updating current software systems. Testing, writing training manuals, and suggesting scope for system improvement also forms part of a Software Engineer’s role. Be as specific as you can without, of course, writing an entire product concept proposal.

*Cool Tip for Software skills include:

Make an impact by summarizing your technical competencies by Database, Software, and Languages per every project. You can even attach these in a separate document if you have multiple projects completed:

Databases : MySQL, Oracle, Access, SAP etc. Software : Microsoft Office, Remedy, Microsoft SQL Server, DB Artisan, Eclipse, Visual Studio.NET, Front Page Languages : C#, Java, Visual Basic, ASP, XML, XSL, JWS, SQL, and T-SQL

Make sure to include the following details:

  • The locations you are allowed to work in, according to your licensing and certifications obtained.
  • Your GPA score if you have completed a bachelor's or associate's degree. (if higher than 3.5)
  • A list of all the industries you have worked in for example Automotive, Medical Devices, Specialty Chemicals, etc. (Use specific sic codes, which you will find on any labor classification website)
  • Extended or irregular working hours are typical to this job, and so is travel; therefore, you need to indicate your willingness to do both.
  • Much of a software engineer's work is done on a laptop/computer and telecommuting is always an option. This effectively means you can apply freely for international jobs too, just check the working hours in terms of time zone differences.

Software Engineer Resume Summary

Hiring managers typically have hundreds of resumes to go through and very little time to read them all in detail. Keep your career summary concise and to the point. Put the most important information first to capture their attention while they’re quickly skimming your resume.

Start your profile summary with your years of experience in the industry and the main duties you performed. When deciding what duties to add, use the job description as your guide. For instance, if the job you are applying to emphasizes expertise in designing code or embedded software development, use the same words in your summary. The more your resume resonates with the job description of keywords, the better fit you will seem.

Next, add a line that showcases any outstanding qualities that will add value to the company. A hiring manager would be interested to know if you have “strong programming skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and excellent time management.” It’s important to note that these qualities should be proven in the professional experience section to re-enforce your message.

Lastly, close with your educational degrees/diplomas, and any certifications/licenses you may have that are pertinent to the job

Example Profile Summaries:

Profile Summary Sample 1 “Out the box thinking Software Engineer with expertise in Java, T-SQL, and C#.Net and proven integration problem-solving tenure of 10 years. Skilled in developing systems architecture, writing requirement specifications, and user documentation training manuals. Holds a Masters Degree in Computer Engineering.”

Profile Summary Sample 2

“Senior Software Engineering with eight years of hands-on experience in core web design, coding, and product life cycle development. A guru in Python, R, and Perl offering quick turnaround times to clients. Holds a Bachelor of Engineering coupled with various certifications in embedded systems development.”

Software Engineer Job Descriptions and Responsibilities

An employer would expect to see the following proven foundational duties and skill sets within an applicant’s resume, depending on educational level and career stage.

Example Job Descriptions

An entry-level stage software engineer (less than five years experience) may:.

  • Assist in developing software solutions to meet customer requirements
  • Participate in the full development life cycle of products including requirement analysis, architectural design, and component software features through to implementation of test plans and documenting final product solution
  • Assist in the groundwork development of applications written in PHP, JavaScript, Perl, C++, C#, or Java.
  • Other duties include reviewing code, writing documentation, and following test procedures
  • Also involved with UI (user interface) design, graphics development, and 3-D programming

A Software Engineer at the mid-career stage (5-10 years experience) may:

  • Programming computer controls which are used to activate machinery in manufacturing industries, for example, PLC and Agile based systems
  • Develop a project development plan together with the business analyst
  • Setting up new IT systems, networks, and intranets for clients
  • Modifying and updating current software applications
  • Writing documentation and training manuals
  • Testing the model for compatibility and installation problems
  • Conduct debugging and fix system incompatibilities arising after new software was implemented

A Software Engineer at an experienced/advanced stage (10–15 years experience) may:

  • Develop software solutions by following the software development life cycle: documenting information requirements; conferring with users; investigating systems flow, data usage, and work processes; and studying problem areas
  • Determine operational feasibility by evaluating analysis, problem definition, requirements, solution development, and proposed solutions
  • Develop documentation, flowcharts, layouts, diagrams, charts, code comments, and clear code
  • Determine system specifications and standards before installing product solutions
  • Conduct system analysis and recommend changes in policies and procedures
  • Mentor and develop junior and mid-level software engineers

Highlight Your Accomplishments

Under your experience section, you may be tempted to copy and paste the list of duties you performed as detailed in your job description. The drawback to doing this, though, is that you won’t stand out from the other applicants with similar experience.

Your goal is to think about what sets you apart, what you are most proud of, or what you accomplished in your previous roles, and communicate these through action-packed statements that are compelling.

Flat, Simple Duty:

  • Present software solutions to clients

Accomplishment Statement:

  • Translate user needs into easy-to-understand software solutions via client workshops and webinars which resulted in closing deals for the sales team of more than $500k in value
  • Installing and configuring servers and workstations
  • Designed a process tool suite that automates the installation and configuration of servers from bare metal to 90% completion saving 75 work hours per installation

Quantifying Your Resume

When writing your resume, if you can answer the questions, “ How much ?” or “ How many ?, How long ? By when ?, How often ?”, It would help if you tried to include that number. For instance:

Quantified Example 1

  • Developed error analysis for Intel i32 servers by designing algorithms within three weeks and reducing systems downtime by 28% after running those algorithms

Quantified Example 2

  • Solve technical issues within 30 minutes on average by creating continuous bug fixes daily for the newly implemented ERM Software for the first 30 days after implementation

Software Engineer Education Section

The education section forms an integral part of your resume. In short, indicate What, Where, and When regarding your qualifications, certifications or industry licenses obtained. The name of your qualification, institution, and date of completion is more than sufficient. Unless you are a graduate with limited working experience, there is no need to include major subjects or course curriculum topics.

Remember to include current qualifications you are in the process of completing. Regarding courses and certifications, discretion and relevance must be considered.

Completed Secondary and Tertiary Education must be listed as follows:

Start with the commencement date and completion date for diplomas, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees. For courses, you can just list the date of completion. Next comes the full name of the qualification, then the full name of the institution, and then the City or abbreviated State name. List your high school diploma details similarly, but only include this when you have less than five years of working experience.

Examples with more than five years’ experience:

2012-2015 Masters Degree in Computer Science, Kaplan University, FL

2010-2011 Certified Network Professional (CNP), Florida Institute of Technology, FL

2007-2009 Associates Degree in Software Engineering, Milwaukee School of Engineering, WI

Examples If you have less than five years’ experience, you may also add your majors, minors, GPA scores and accolades, and honors awards

2013 – 2015 Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA Majors: Electrical Engineering , Computer Engineering Overall GPA: 3.21/4.00

2018 – Certificate in Multiplatform Software Development, Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals (ICCP), TN

2017 Ridgefield High School, High School Diploma, Ridgefield, NJ

Software Engineer Resume Skills

Although the production field requires specific technical skills , employers look for other skills, called soft skills . These are the main types of skills that indicate to your fitness as a potential employee who will add value, has adequate knowledge, sufficient experience, and will be easy to manage. Incorporate these into your summary, or profile, and your accomplishment statements.

Technical Skills Examples:

  • Educational Attainment : A university degree is an entry-level requirement to become a Software Engineer, but if you want to have a better chance of moving up into senior management later, it will be an advantage to complete a Master's or Ph.D.
  • Technical Aptitude : Analytical, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills, as well as creativity and attention to detail; familiarity with database management, development environments, and program testing, are essential must-haves. Software Engineers, need to be process orientated and meticulous to accurately assess client requirements and follow the set-out milestones of a product development life cycle to the tee.
  • Other Technical Skills : Programming languages, for example, JavaScript, C++, Smalltalk, Visual Basic, Oracle, UML, Linux, Python, Perl, and Ruby. Knowledge of CASE (Computer-Aided Software Engineering) tools and ERP Systems. Understanding of system standards: XML, HTTP Object-oriented design (OOD).

Software Engineer Resume Soft Skill Examples

IndependenceInitiativeCooperation
PersistenceDependabilityAnalytical Thinking
Attention to DetailSelf-ControlAdaptability/Flexibility
IntegrityStress TolerancePersistence
InnovativeAchievement/Effort DrivenSocial Orientation
Analytical ThinkingCooperativeConventional
EnterprisingInvestigativeRealistic

Qualifications/Certifications associated with Software Engineers

Bachelor of Computer EngineeringMicrosoft Certified Solution DeveloperDiploma in Embedded Software Development
Oracle PL/ SQL Developer Certification
Sun Microsystems Java Certified Programmer
Associates Degree in Information Technology
Python
RubyJava
HTMLLinuxC#
Project ManagementC++SQL/VBA

Action Verbs for your Software Engineer Resume

InteractingTroubleshootingDebugging
ProgrammingProblem SolvingImplementing
CodingDeductive ReasoningDetecting
DevelopingDesigningRecording
InterpretingCommunicatingAnalyzing
TestingProcessingCalculating

Other Software Engineering Titles

Applications Software EngineeringSoftware Architect
Bioinformatics Software EngineerSoftware Engineering Supervisor
Computer Software EngineerSystems Software Engineer
Computer Systems Software EngineerWeb Software Engineer
Information Technology EngineerWindows Software Engineer

Professional Information on Software Engineers

Sectors : Various Career Type : Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Programming, Networks Person type : Writer , Coder, Implementer, Designer , Developer , Fixer Education levels : From Bachelor’s Degree upwards Salary indication : From $98k to $130k annually / $42 – $52 per hour Labor market : A whopping 26% from 2016 – 2016 (350.000 jobs) Organizations : All

Software Engineer Resume Examples in PDF

Software Engineer Resume Example

>Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (2) | >Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (3)

Modern and Classic Software Engineer Design Resume

>Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (4) | >Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (5)

Software Engineer Sample Resume

>Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (6) | >Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (7)

Software Engineer Minimal Creative Resume

>Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (8) | >Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (9)

Software Engineer Modern Design Resume

>Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (10) | >Resume – Software Engineer.PDF (11)

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Software Engineer Resume Examples For 2024 (20+ Skills & Templates)

sample resume for software engineer

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Looking to score a job as a Software Engineer?

You're going to need an awesome resume. This guide is your one-stop-shop for writing a job-winning Software Engineer resume using our proven strategies, skills, templates, and examples.

All of the content in this guide is based on data from coaching thousands of job seekers (just like you!) who went on to land offers at the world's best companies.

If you want to maximize your chances of landing that Software Engineer role, I recommend reading this piece from top to bottom. But if you're just looking for something specific, here's what's included in this guide:

  • What To Know About Writing A Job-Winning Software Engineer Resume
  • The Best Skills To Include On A Software Engineer Resume

How To Write A Job-Winning Software Engineer Resume Summary

How to write offer-winning software engineer resume bullets.

  • 3 Software Engineer Resume Examples

The 8 Best Software Engineer Resume Templates

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

Software Engineer Resume Overview: What To Know To Write A Resume That Wins More Job Offers

What do companies look for when they're hiring a Software Engineer?

Companies look for Software Engineers who are proficient in languages such as JavaScript, Python, or Java, with expertise in essential tools and frameworks.

Companies also seek candidates who can collaborate, solve problems, communicate well, and align with their values and tech interests.

Your resume should show the company that your personality and your experience encompass all these things.

Additionally, there are a few best practices you want to follow to write a job-winning Software Engineer resume:

  • Customize your resume to the job description: Tailor your resume for each job application, matching your skills, experiences, and proficiency in programming languages and tools with the requirements of the software engineer role you have an eye on.
  • Detail your previous experiences: Provide detailed information about your past experiences, emphasizing responsibilities related to software engineering.
  • Quantify achievements and impact: Use specific metrics, such as the percentage of performance improvement, the number of lines of code written, or the successful completion of projects within deadlines.
  • Showcase technical skills and tools: Clearly outline your technical skills, programming languages, and tools you are proficient in.
  • Make it visually appealing: Use a clear and professional layout for easy reading. Maintain consistency in the font and formatting throughout and limit your resume to one or two pages.
  • Use keywords:   Use a skills section to provide a quick overview and consider incorporating relevant keywords from the job description. This helps automated applicant tracking systems (ATS) identify your compatibility with the role and ensures your resume passes through initial screenings.
  • Proofread your resume: Proofread your resume to eliminate errors (I recommend using the Hemingway App or Grammarly ). Also, if you want to make sure that your work is easy to understand and effective, it's always a good idea to ask for feedback from your colleagues or mentors!

Let's dive deeper into each of these so you have the exact blueprint you need to see success.

The Best Software Engineer Skills To Include On Your Resume

Keywords are one of the most important factors in your resume. They show employers that your skills align with the role and they also help format your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

If you're not familiar with ATS systems, they are pieces of software used by employers to manage job applications. They scan resumes for keywords and qualifications and make it easier for employers to filter and search for candidates whose qualifications match the role.

If you want to win more interviews and job offers, you need to have a keyword-optimized resume. There are two ways to find the right keywords:

1. Leverage The 20 Best Software Engineer Keywords

The first is to leverage our list of the best keywords and skills for a Software Engineer resume.

These keywords were selected from an analysis of real Software Engineer job descriptions sourced from actual job boards. Here they are:

  • Development
  • Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Communications
  • Communication
  • Organization
  • Team Member
  • Verification
  • Time Management
  • Problem-Solving

2. Use ResyMatch.io To Find The Best Keywords That Are Specific To Your Resume And Target Role

The second method is the one I recommend because it's personalized to your specific resume and target job.

This process lets you find the exact keywords that your resume is missing when compared to the individual role you're applying for.

sample resume for software engineer

Here's how it works:

  • Open a copy of your updated Software Engineer resume
  • Open a copy of your target Software Engineer job description
  • In the widget below, paste your resume on the left, paste the job description on the right, and hit scan!

ResyMatch is going to scan your resume and compare it to the target job description. It's going to show you the exact keywords and skills you're missing as well as share other feedback you can use to improve your resume.

If you're ready to get started, use the widget below to run your first scan and get your free resume score:

sample resume for software engineer

Copy/paste or upload your resume here:

Click here to paste text

Upload a PDF, Word Doc, or TXT File

Paste the job post's details here:

Scan to compare and score your resume vs the job's description.

Scanning...

And if you're a visual learner, here's a video walking through the entire process so you can follow along:

Employers spend an average of six seconds reading your resume.

If you want to win more interviews and offers, you need to make that time count. That starts with hitting the reader with the exact information they're looking for right at the top of your resume.

Unfortunately, traditional resume advice like Summaries and Objectives don't accomplish that goal. If you want to win in today's market, you need a modern approach. I like to use something I can a “Highlight Reel,” here's how it works.

Highlight Reels: A Proven Way To Start Your Resume And Win More Jobs

The Highlight Reel is exactly what it sounds like.

It's a section at the top of your resume that allows you to pick and choose the best and most relevant experience to feature right at the top of your resume.

It's essentially a highlight reel of your career as it relates to this specific role! I like to think about it as the SportsCenter Top 10 of your resume.

The Highlight Reel resume summary consists of 4 parts:

  • A relevant section title that ties your experience to the role
  • An introductory bullet that summarizes your experience and high-level value
  • A few supporting “Case Study” bullets that illustrate specific results, projects, and relevant experience
  • A closing “Extracurricular” bullet to round out your candidacy

For example, if we were writing a Highlight Reel for a Software Engineer role, it might look like this:

Software Engineer Resume Summary Example 1 (New)

You can see how the first bullet includes the Software Engineer job title, the years of experience this candidate has, and it wraps up with a value-driven pitch for how they've helped companies in the past.

The next bullet is a “Case Study” of specific results they drove at their past experiences and the third one covers relevant skills for the role. The last bullet wraps up with a certification and additional skill set.

This candidate has provided all of the info any employer would want to see right at the very top of their resume! The best part is that they can customize this section for each and every role they apply for to maximize the relevance of their experience.

Here's one more example of a Software Engineer Highlight Reel:

Software Engineer Resume Summary Ex 2

The content of this example showcases the candidate's years of experience and wraps up the first bullet with a high-value pitch, while the following bullet points focus on measurable results. The final bullet point wraps up by mentioning their academic achievements.

If you want more details on writing a killer Highlight Reel, check out my full guide on Highlight Reels here.

Bullets make up the majority of the content in your resume. If you want to win, you need to know how to write bullets that are compelling and value-driven.

Unfortunately, way too many job seekers aren't good at this. They use fluffy, buzzword-fill language and they only talk about the actions that they took rather than the results and outcomes those actions created.

The Anatomy Of A Highly Effective Resume Bullet

If you apply this framework to each of the bullets on your resume, you're going to make them more compelling and your value is going to be crystal clear to the reader. For example, take a look at these resume bullets:

❌ Responsible for building applications to help achieve company goals

✅ Software Engineer with 9+ years of proven experience leveraging React and PHP to build SaaS applications supporting 1M+ users

The second bullet makes the candidate's value  so much more clear, and it's a lot more fun to read! That's what we're going for here.

That said, it's one thing to look at the graphic above and try to apply the abstract concept of “35% hard skills” to your bullet. We wanted to make things easy, so we created a tool called ResyBullet.io that will actually give your resume bullet a score and show you how to improve it.

Using ResyBullet To Write Crazy Effective, Job-Winning Resume Bullets

ResyBullet takes our proprietary “resume bullet formula” and layers it into a tool that's super simple to use. Here's how it works:

  • Head over to ResyBullet.io
  • Copy a bullet from your resume and paste it into the tool, then hit “Analyze”
  • ResyBullet will score your resume bullet and show you exactly what you need to improve
  • You edit your bullet with the recommended changes and scan it again
  • Rinse and repeat until you get a score of 60+
  • Move on to the next bullet in your resume

Let's take a look at how this works for the two resume bullet examples I shared above:

First, we had, “Responsible for building applications to help achieve company goals”.

ResyBullet gave that a score of 25/100.  Not only is it too short, but it's missing relevant skills, compelling language, and measurable outcomes:

Example Of A Bad Software Engineer Resume Bullet

Now, let's take a look at our second bullet,  “Software Engineer with 9+ years of proven experience using Jira for agile project management, reducing project delivery time by 15%.”

ResyBullet gave that a 50/100. Much better! This bullet had more content focused on the experience in the Software Engineer role, while also highlighting measurable results:

Example Of A Good Software Engineer Resume Bullet #3

Now all you have to do is run each of your bullets through ResyBullet, make the suggested updates, and your resume is going to be jam-packed with eye-popping, value-driven content!

If you're ready, grab a bullet from your resume, paste it into the widget below, and hit scan to get your first resume bullet score and analysis:

Free Resume Bullet Analyzer

Learn to write crazy effective resume bullets that grab attention, illustrate value, and actually get results., copy and paste your resume bullet to begin analysis:, 3 software engineer resume examples for 2023.

Now let's take a look at all of these best practices in action. Here are three resume examples for different situations from people with different backgrounds:

Software Engineer Resume Example #1: A Traditional Background

Software Engineer Resume Example #1 (New) - Traditional

Software Engineer Resume Example #2: A Non-Traditional Background

For our second Software Engineer Resume Example, we have a candidate who has a non-traditional background in Sales. Here's an example of what their resume might look like:

Software Engineer Resume Example #2 - Non-Traditional

Software Engineer Resume Example #3: Senior Software Engineer With A Master's Degree

For our third Software Engineer Resume Example, we have a candidate who has 14+ years of experience and a Master's Degree. Here's an example of what their resume might look like:

Software Engineer Resume Example #3 - Masters Degree

At this point, you know all of the basics you'll need to write a Software Engineer resume that wins you more interviews and offers. The only thing left is to take all of that information and apply it to a template that's going to help you get results.

We made that easy with our ResyBuild tool . It has 8 proven templates that were created with the help of recruiters and hiring managers at the world's best companies. These templates also bake in thousands of data points we have from the job seekers in our audience who have used them to land job offers.

Just click any of the templates below to start building your resume using proven, recruiter-approved templates:

sample resume for software engineer

Free Job-Winning Resume Templates, Build Yours In No Time .

Choose a resume template below to get started:.

sample resume for software engineer

Key Takeaways To Wrap Up Your Job-Winning Software Engineer Resume

You made it! We packed a lot of information into this post so I wanted to distill the key points for you and lay out next steps so you know exactly where to from here.

Here are the 5 steps for writing a job-winning Software Engineer resume:

  • Start with a proven resume template from ResyBuild.io
  • Use ResyMatch.io to find the right keywords and optimize your resume for each role you apply to
  • Open your resume with a Highlight Reel to immediately grab your target employer's attention
  • Use ResyBullet.io to craft compelling, value-driven bullets that pop off the page
  • Compare the draft of your resume to the examples on this page to make sure you're on the right path
  • Use a tool like HemingwayApp to proofread your resume before you submit it

If you follow those steps, you're going to be well on your way to landing more Software Engineer interviews and job offers.

Now that your resume is taken care of, check out my guide on how to get a job anywhere without applying online!

sample resume for software engineer

Paula Martins

Paula is Cultivated Culture's amazing Editor and Content Manager. Her background is in journalism and she's transitioned from roles in education, to tech, to finance, and more. She blends her journalism background with her job search experience to share advice aimed at helping people like you land jobs they love without applying online.

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  • Resume Examples

Software Engineer Resume Examples & Writing Guide

Hate untangling spaghetti code? Recruiters hate messy resumes just as much. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll create a flawless software engineer resume in no time.

Mariusz Wawrzyniak

You applied for yet another job, and again, no answers. That’s a clear sign that you might need to review and debug your resume. A great software developer's resume needs to be clean and easily readable so that your recruiters decide on a YES in just a couple of seconds.

Whether you’re a code-writing expert or have more experience in implementing entire system architectures, put your coding cap on and get ready to land that dream job.

This step-by-step guide will show you the following:

  • A software engineer resume template that’s better than most.
  • Resume example for a software engineer that lands interviews.
  • How to choose and list the most valuable software engineer resume skills.
  • The best way to showcase error-free software engineer resume accomplishments.

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

Create your resume now

Software Engineer Resume Example

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your resume.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous resume was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Looking for something other than a software engineer resume? Take a look at our guides:

  • Android Developer Resume
  • Computer Science Resume
  • Cyber Security Resume
  • Data Engineer Resume
  • Game Design Resume
  • Information Security Analyst Resume
  • Java Developer Resume
  • Machine Learning Resume
  • Network Engineer Resume

Resume Example for a Software Engineer

Andrew Donovan

Software Engineer 716-924-7144

[email protected]

andrewdonovan.com

linkedin.com/in/andrewdonovan12

github.com/andrewdonovan

Diligent software engineer with 6+ years of professional experience in programming, software development, and cybersecurity, seeking to deliver robust solutions for Google. At Codeware, drove the team that received the 2018 DEVIES award. Cut breach risk by 71% through automated standards enforcement. Cut lead times by 23%.

Work Experience

Software Engineer

Codeware, Inc., Des Moines, IA

June 2017–August 2020

  • Led team of 10 software engineers handling end-to-end software development life cycle for 28 client projects. Increased customer satisfaction by 30%.
  • Piloted the team that received the 2018 DEVIES award for software development.
  • Slashed security breaches by 71% through automated standards enforcement.
  • Increased code efficiency by 35%. Cut lead times by 23%. Raised client retention by 35%.

DevHive, Inc., Ottumwa, IA

October 2015–June 2017

  • Developed infrastructure to process millions of files in proprietary systems.
  • Achieved 100% compliance with development best practices by building security into new features. Cut software rework time by 18%.
  • Decimated production bugs by getting 97% buy-in for test-driven development program. Increased code reliability by 35% and slashed security risk by 21%.

Volunteer Software Engineer

Ida Animal Shelter, IA

April 2013–October 2016

  • Transferred all record keeping to cloud database form.
  • Implemented the principle of least privilege to slash security risk by 45%.
  • Wrote new donations functionality that increased collections by $5,500/year.

Freelance Software Engineer

February 2014–October 2015

  • Built a working productivity app for real-time project management collaboration, which was downloaded over 1,200 times.
  • Wrote a native Java cryptocurrency tracking app. The app retrieves and displays current prices for the top 10 most popular cryptocurrencies.
  • Composed a messenger app using WebSockets for instant messaging.
  • Added invisible keypad to open source Wikimedia Commons App for Android and debugged crash reports.

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering

Upper Iowa University

July 2010–August 2014

  • Excelled in Java programming with 5 advanced classes.
  • President of the student cloud computing club.
  • Published an article, "Machine Learning Will Change Everything," which appeared in the campus magazine. Linked to by TechCrunch and Gizmodo.
  • Software development
  • Machine learning
  • Adaptability
  • Cybersecurity principles

Certificates

  • Certified Software Engineer, ICCP, May 2019
  • Google Professional Cloud Developer, March 2016
  • Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate, August 2015

Conferences

  • Led a session on cloud computing at FOSDEM 2017.
  • Gave a speech on “Machine Learning Algorithms for Cloud-Based Solutions” during the NYC Hackathon 2017.

Software engineers , also often called software developers, are IT professionals responsible for creating and maintaining software. They are masters in using software programming languages and have to possess high levels of analytical thinking, creativity, and technical skills.

And to write a software engineer resume that will make a company #include<you> in their team, follow these simple steps:

1. Start by Choosing the Best Software Engineer Resume Format

Public class StringStatsArray { private final String[] stats; public StringStatsArray(String[] a) { stats = a; } public String toString() { String ret = "{"; for (String check: stats) { ret += "\""

Isn’t it painful to look at such an unstructured mess? That’s how recruiters feel when they see a resume just as messy. They may view your messy software engineer resume as a sign of disorganization or lack of attention to detail, which may, in turn, negatively impact their perception of you. That’s why learning how to write a resume is so important.

So how do you immediately show you’re worth being noticed? By presenting a software engineer resume in a clean format . Here’s how to do that:

  • Use the reverse-chronological format . This way, you boot up your recent accomplishments first.
  • Pick a readable resume font like Calibri in 10–12pt. Use large, visible headings and 1.15 line spacing for a premium UX.
  • Set the margins on your resume to 1 inch, and don’t overstuff the page on all fronts.
  • Submit a two-page resume . A software developer resume should have a lot of relevant accomplishments.
  • Apply these resume sections in this order: header, summary, experience, education, and skills, and add one or two “additional” sections.
  • Give the following information in the header: Your name, phone, email, and links to relevant sites (LinkedIn or your website). Don’t include an address or photo on your software developer resume.
  • To ensure your application is readable at all times, save the resume in a PDF format . This will allow both algorithmic programs and human recruiters to open your application on any device with any program.

Expert Hint: A software developer greatly benefits from having a well-made GitHub profile . It shows your coding passion and your ability to write and read code. It also serves as a portfolio of your work. And if you created a collaborative project, it paints you as a great team player.

2. Write a Software Engineer Resume Summary That Won’t Crash

A resume summary is the “Hello World” of your application. If you don’t introduce yourself properly here, you have reduced your chances of landing a job interview down to near null. So, what should your software engineer resume summary look like?

  • One adjective ( Diligent, Efficient, Reliable )
  • Job title ( Software Engineer/Software Developer )
  • Years of experience ( 4+, 6+ )
  • One-liner about how you’ll help ( deliver robust solutions )
  • Flashiest 2–3 achievements ( won a DEVIES award, cut breach risk by 71% )

Resume Example for a Software Engineer—Summary

Great software dev with a lot of experience. Highly skilled in cloud computing, cybersec, and soft building. Responsible for all aspects of the software development life cycle.

We all know which of these candidates gets approved. The first software developer resume summary exudes pure professionalism. The second candidate not only didn’t back their claims up with data, but they also came in with casual lingo.

What if your software engineer resume doesn’t come with much experience and achievements? We have a complete guide on how to create an entry-level software engineer resume . Check it out if you’re looking for a guideline on how to write a resume with no experience .

3. Input a Software Engineer Resume Job Description That Leaves an Impact

As a software engineer, you surely have a couple of outstanding achievements on your resume . And this is the section where you showcase most of them. But keep one thing in mind—you're not here to talk about the responsibilities you had.

Instead, show achievements through the clever use of resume power words . The thing is, as a software engineer, your employer already knows what your responsibilities are. By showing them in the form of measurable achievements, your software developer resume will show you exceeded in those tasks and that you were not just a passive employee but an active, motivated one. Here’s the framework:

  • Carefully read the job listing.
  • Extract the skills, duties, and responsibilities that are written in it.
  • Make a list of relevant achievements where the skills show.
  • Write a number of bullets to back them up using quantifiers.

Let’s take a look at this resume example for a software engineer to visualize:

Software Engineer Resume Example—Work Experience

Codeware, Inc.

  • Led a software engineering team that handled multiple clients.
  • Received a 2018 DEVIES award.
  • Significantly lowered the number of security breaches in the company.
  • Increased code efficiency, cut lead times, and raised client retention.

The result is similar to learning advanced math. You take away all the numbers, and suddenly everything looks wrong. Even though these two applications are technically the same, data always wins.

Create a list like that for all the positions you had, and you’re hard-coded to gain the next one you want. Especially if you’re a senior software engineer, you definitely have a lot of achievements to show.

The next point in the string of sections? Put together a cohesive list of software engineer resume skills. Aim for a maximum of 10.

There are different skill classes to consider here, but remember to prioritize hard IT skills over soft ones. And don’t use Ctrl + C, Ctrl + V on resume skill lists from the internet. A trained recruiter will see through that in an instant.

Software Engineer Resume—Skills

  • Data Structures
  • Web Development
  • Open Source Experience
  • Machine Learning
  • Cloud Computing
  • Creative Thinking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Communications Skills
  • Collaboration

As can be seen in this software developer industry study , the market demand for software engineers is constantly growing. And on the topic of programming languages, the most used ones are JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and Python. So choose one of these if you’re looking to gain a new skill.

Expert hint: If you’re not listing any spoken language proficiencies  (Spanish, French, etc.) on your software engineer resume, you can create a programming languages section. Do that instead of mixing with your soft skills in the main skills section.

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

create your resume now

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, and highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You're the perfect candidate, and we'll prove it. Use our resume builder now .

4. Turn Your Education Into an Array of Accomplishments

A lack of the education section on your software engineer resume can be a major breach in your application. Add a couple of lines of achievements to your resume education section to show the recruiters you were an avid coder from the start.

Resume Example for a Software Engineer—Education

Nothing to troubleshoot here! This repository of achievements speaks volumes about your commitment.

Expert hint: A senior software engineer resume shouldn’t bother recruiters with a robust section of college achievements. Here, just say which school and course you graduated from and add your graduation date.

5. Add a Couple of Extra Sections to Your Software Engineer Resume

Are you ready to blow the recruiter’s socks off? Do so by adding one or two additional resume sections. They’ll make your software engineer resume more powerful, and other applicants will look basic in comparison.

Software Engineer Resume Examples—Additional Sections

Additional Activities

  • Listening to music
  • Photography

That first software engineer resume is on the right track. If you’re looking to certify yourself as a software developer, see this certificate offered by ISC2 . If you decide to include a hobbies section, ensure they are relevant to your position. For example, modding games would be a great addition.

And to increase your chances even more, create a cover letter . Use our software developer cover letter guide as a blueprint.

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

create your cover letter now

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

For a software engineer resume that works flawlessly:

  • Use the software engineer resume template at the top . It shows you’re job-compatible without needless information.
  • List accomplishments in your software engineer resume experience section. Match them to the job like Mixins.
  • Put a yardstick near your software engineer resume with numbers . Percents, dollars, and other metrics make the competition look micro.
  • Send a software engineer cover letter and link it to the employer’s needs. She’ll read your software engineer resume like the source code.

Got questions on how to write an excellent resume for software engineer jobs? Did our resume example for a software engineer help? Leave a comment. We’ll be happy to reply.

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Mariusz Wawrzyniak

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

software engineer template simple

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Software Engineering Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

Julia Belak — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

Creating an outstanding software engineering resume is a crucial step in getting your foot in the door in the competitive field of software development. 

In this guide, brimming with examples, useful tips, and adaptable templates, we'll simply walk you through the process of crafting a resume that sets you apart . Whether you're a veteran in the field or just setting out on your coding journey, the steps outlined here will ensure your application doesn't just blend into the binary, but leaves a lasting impression.

Accenture Software Engineering Team Lead Resume

Here's what's under the hood:

  • Navigate resume samples tailored to different levels of experience in software engineering
  • Properly format your software engineering resume
  • Write a strong software engineering resume summary
  • Include your best hard and soft skills as a software engineer
  • Describe your work experience and key projects as a software engineer
  • Include action words to make your resume pop
  • List your educational credentials properly
  • Select the perfect extra sections for your software engineer resume
  • Avoid common mistakes on a software engineering resume
  • Include a relevant cover letter
  • Find out more about the job outlook and average salary for software engineers
  • Access top job search resources for software engineers

Oh, and if you want to turn your LinkedIn profile into a resume with just one click, we've got you covered.

Software engineering intern resume sample

Software Engineering Intern at Payworks Resume Sample

What's this software engineering intern resume sample doing right?

  • Education takes center stage: In the competitive world of internships, this resume distinguishes itself by highlighting the candidate's educational background. It weaves a captivating tale interlaced with preferred, relevant classes, thesis topics, and active involvement in events like Robocot and Hackathon. It’s a showcase of learning, enthusiasm, and tech prowess.
  • Highlighting relevant projects: An intriguing addition in this intern resume is a focused display of relevant projects. The candidate brilliantly demonstrates their hands-on experience with technologies such as C#, MySQL, Firebase, and more. These tangible instances of technical expertise serve to validate the candidate’s skills and boost their professional credibility, despite their early career stage.

How could we improve this resume sample?

  • Welcoming core skills: One area ripe for improvement in this resume is the inclusion of both hard and soft core skills. A well-rounded candidate is not just about applicable knowledge or technical abilities, but also interpersonal and transferable skills.
  • Evolving project descriptions: Though the resume introduces relevant projects, the door is open for enhancement in how these are described. The key lies in striking a balance between the project outline and highlighting the specific achievements stemming from these projects. Retelling the project's story with a focus on results can provide a sharper angle on their value proposition.

Junior software engineer resume sample

Junior Software Engineer Resume Example

What stands out in this entry-level software engineering resume sample?

  • Including relevant coursework: At an entry-level, relevant coursework can elevate a software engineering resume significantly. While real-world experience might be sparse, coursework allows candidates to showcase the practical and theoretical knowledge they possess. It offers potential employers a lens into your educational focus and how it aligns with the job requirements.
  • Showcasing technological competencies:  Another strength of this entry-level resume lies in its mention of various technical skills within the description of their internship experience. Showing familiarity with diverse tech tools can be highly advantageous. It can position candidates as quick learners who are able to ride the wave of quickly evolving industry trends.

What can enhance this resume sample?

  • Streamlining campus involvement: While it's great that the candidate shows diverse campus involvement, portions of this content seem out of sync with a software engineering resume. For instance, being part of an acapella group, while interesting, is not entirely relevant. Clearing some of this clutter and maintaining focus on activities related directly to software engineering can make this section stronger.
  • Highlighting the award: The resume drops mention of an award within the internship experience. This significant accolade could have its own spotlight. By giving such achievements their own separate awards section, candidates can emphasize their recognitions and let them speak volumes about their competency.

Senior android developer resume example

Senior Android Developer Resume Sample

What does this resume example ace, and why should you take note?

  • Highlighting progress with numbers:  This candidate cleverly captures their impact. They've put numbers to work, showcasing a dip in application crashes and a swift decrease in app load times. When success is spelled out in percentage terms, it's hard to ignore.
  • Flashing the certification card: Don't underestimate the power of professional certifications. Especially in a field like software engineering, where each credential can dramatically edge up your standing. Including relevant certifications in your software engineering resume not only underscores your competence but also aligns perfectly with the role you're eyeing.

What can make this resume sample better?

  • Shuffling the order of sections: For a senior position, the spotlight naturally gravitates to work experience and core competencies. In this resume, education leads the parade — a slight misstep. The candidate would better command attention by placing their work experience or key competencies first.
  • Expanding the list of achievements: While this resume does feature accomplishments, for a senior role, there's room for more. Increasing the array of listed achievements can only enhance the profile, giving it additional weight and making it more compelling. Showcasing a broader range of success stories is always beneficial when aiming high.

Embedded software engineer resume sample

Embedded Software Developer Resume Sample

What makes this resume sample great?

  • Strong action words giving this resume dynamic energy:  This software engineer resume sample is a standout, particularly due to its efficient use of powerful action words. Verbs like "spearheaded", "streamlined", "conducted", and "developed", bring a sense of dynamism and pro-activity to the resume. They illustrate not just what the candidate did, but how they drove impact.
  • Tailored skillset highlighting specific competencies:  This resume also does a great job at specifying computer skills and listing software specialties like C++, Eclipse, and GDB. These technical elements add authenticity, proving this candidate doesn't just know the buzzwords but genuinely has the skills.

How can we improve this QA engineer resume sample?

  • Reordering sections:  Looking at potential improvement areas, the placement of the education section could be reconsidered. For an experienced candidate like this, work experience might be more relevant to the hiring manager. And so, getting that upfront could add more weight to the resume.
  • Shifting focus from objectives to achievements in the professional profile:  Instead of leaning towards an objective, the professional profile could highlight the candidate's achievements more. This is a chance to showcase the valuable contributions made in past roles, promising the potential value add to the new employer. All in all, it's about indicating the 'achiever' in the candidate, not merely the 'doer'. 

Web developer resume sample

Web Developer Resume Template

Why does this web developer resume sample work?

  • Balanced skill sets: A major strength of this web developer resume is its inclusion of both hard and soft skill sets. It showcases not just technical prowess in coding languages and web development tools, but also highlights interpersonal skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. This creates a well-rounded candidate who excels in both the nuts and bolts and the heart and soul of web development. 
  • Extra sections — the icing on the cake: Another good aspect of this resume is the thoughtful addition of extra sections such as volunteering activities and certifications. Besides showcasing the candidate's wider interests and dedication to personal growth, it also reflects a dynamic personality ready to go the extra mile.

What can make this resume sample work even better?

  • Work experience enhancement: This resume could use more specificity in the work experience section. Instead of a general statement like "Conducted market research and analysis and reported findings to manager", why not try:   "Led UI market analysis, resulting in a 20% increase in user engagement." This concise, result-oriented approach works to highlight your impact clearly and efficiently.

Software testing fresher resume sample

Software testing fresher Resume Sample

What sets this resume apart?

  • Impact-oriented work experience:  A plus for this software testing resume is its impact-oriented work experience. Bullet points that highlight the impact of the task like "...identified and resolved critical defects, ensuring product quality and customer satisfaction" turn duties into tangible achievements, showing clear value to potential employers
  • Highlighted academic achievements: Another positive aspect of this resume is the detailed portrayal of educational accomplishments. A standout GPA, academic awards, and participation in relevant activities not only show great academic prowess but also demonstrate hard work, diligence, and commitment.

What could make this sample better?

  • Quantifying achievements: Despite its strengths, the resume could use more quantifiable achievements. For example, instead of saying "resolved critical defects," why not specify how many? Numbers add credibility and offer a measure of your impact. It's a simple way to make your resume more concrete and compelling.

Data engineer resume sample

Data Engineer Resume Sample

Why does this data engineer resume example pop?

  • Critical responsibilities and achievements are chosen: A strong point for this data engineer resume is its careful selection of key responsibilities and achievements. It cuts through the clutter, presenting a streamlined snapshot of the candidate's value-add. The fact that a recruiter can get a clear picture of your resume in just about 7 seconds (he rumored review time for recruiters) shows that this resume is doing its job well. It's easy to read and gets straight to the point - that's a big win!

What can be enhanced?

  • Showcasing work experience upfront: A potential improvement for this data engineer resume could involve reordering the sections. For experienced candidates like this, work experience typically holds more weight than education. Shifting it to the forefront would immediately draw attention to the candidate's hands-on involvement in the field, increasing the chances of making an instant impact.

Junior Java developer resume sample

Junior Java Developer Resume Sample

What's good about this junior developer resume sample?

  • Spotlight on adaptability and discipline: One of the key strengths of this junior developer resume is the profile's emphasis on adaptability and discipline in a remote work setting. By highlighting proficiency in common remote work tools like Slack, Asana, and Zoom, it shows readiness to hit the ground running in today's digital work environment.

What can make this resume even better?

  • Quantifiable achievements: The work experience section could benefit from the inclusion of quantifiable achievements. Specific figures can illustrate the impact of your work more effectively. For instance, instead of saying "designed and developed various user-friendly websites and applications", something like "Developed 15+ user-friendly websites and applications, increasing client website traffic by 30%" might add more punch.
  • Impact-first framing (because 'how' matters): Also, the impact made by the tasks could be focused on, besides the task itself. For example, instead of "Reviewed and tested existing code to discover and fix bugs.", consider something like: "Enhanced software reliability by reviewing and fixing bugs in the existing code." 

Software developer resume sample

Software Developer at Binary Touch Technologies Resume Sample

What makes this software developer resume sample stand out?

  • Quantified achievements:  A significant highlight of this software developer resume is the use of quantified achievements. Statements like "Achieved 20% growth for Organization" and "Improved website performance and speed by 25%" not only quantify the extent of the candidate's impact but also draw attention to their problem-solving abilities.
  • Personal projects showcasing initiative and passion: Adding personal projects to this software developer resume is a savvy move. They demonstrate not just the candidate's technical skills, but also their initiative, passion, and commitment to software development outside of a work context. In essence, personal projects serve as the candidate's portfolio.

Android developer resume sample

Android Developer Resume Sample

Why does this Android developer resume sample work?

  • Effective achievements — results in action: This Android developer resume shines in how it links responsibilities to tangible results. Highlighting achievements such as contributing to "50% increase in user engagement" or causing a "40% decrease in query time" transforms the work experience section into a persuasive narrative of the candidate's real-life impact.

What could be improved in this resume sample?

  • Include a profile:  It's important to include a compelling professional profile that provides a quick snapshot of the candidate's skills, experiences, and career objectives. Think of it as your elevator pitch, letting potential employers quickly understand who you are and what you bring to the table.
  • Avoid repetition: While the resume has several strengths, a potential improvement lies in diversifying the action verbs used. The repetition of words like "developed", "led", and "collaborated" could risk dulling the impact of these actions. Alternatives could include "engineered", "spearheaded", "partnered with teams", giving a refreshing variance to the narration.
  • Experience before education: Lastly, for an experienced candidate like this, leading with education before work experience might be less advantageous. Typically, employers are more interested in recent applicable experience over academic qualifications. Reshuffling these sections could make the resume more aligned with what hiring managers are looking for.

1. Properly format your software engineering resume

Crafting the content of your software engineering resume might seem like the hard part. However, presenting this information in a user-friendly format is equally important. 

With numerous format types to consider, let's boil it down to the three most common ones you're likely to encounter — namely, the chronological, functional, and hybrid formats.

  • Chronological format: A chronological format , as the name suggests, arranges your work history in reverse order, with the most recent job first. This format serves seasoned professionals best, highlighting your career progression and expertise.
  • Functional format: A functional format , on the other hand, emphasizes skills over job history. This format is favored by fresh graduates or those planning to switch careers who might not have a wide range of related work experience. Instead of focusing on job positions, it magnifies your skills relevant to the software engineering sector.
  • Hybrid format: A hybrid format combines aspects of both chronological and functional formats. It's effective if you want to highlight specific capabilities while still detailing your work history. This format allows you to showcase your expertise upfront, backed by your professional experience.

Remember, the best format is the one that highlights your strengths and fits the job description. Regardless of the chosen format, ensure consistency across your resume. Keep fonts professional and layouts neat, giving employers no excuse not to call you in for an interview!

So, choose your preferred template and make your software engineer resume shine.

Try our AI Resume Writer and have your resume ready in minutes!

2. write a strong software engineering resume summary or objective.

Right at the top of your resume, beneath your contact details, should sit your resume summary or objective . While a summary encapsulates your professional experience and key achievements, a resume objective communicates your career goals and demonstrates how you can benefit the organization. 

If you’re just starting out in the software engineering field, changing your career path, or have specific goals, using a resume objective may be ideal for you. It allows you to focus on how your skills and career ambitions align with the company's needs and mission.

Let's illustrate with examples:

Bad example of a software engineer resume objective 

Seeking a challenging software engineering role to advance my career.

This objective falls short because it's solely focused on the applicant's wants, and lacks specifics on how the company would benefit from their contribution.

Good example of a software engineer resume objective 

Entry-level software engineer with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and proficiency in Java and Python. Looking to leverage academic knowledge, internship experience, and passion for programming to solve unique challenges and contribute to XYZ Tech's mission of creating innovative software solutions.

Why is this example correct? This objective succeeds where the previous example failed. It demonstrates the candidate's qualifications and skills, shows how they intend to apply them, and links their goals to those of the company. 

As an experienced software engineer, you should be writing a resume summary . It should articulate your expertise, key achievements, and any unique value you can provide to the company. Communicate your most relevant skills in line with the job description.

Let's take a look at contrasting examples to understand how to effectively formulate your resume summary:

Bad example of a software engineer resume summary

Software engineer with many years of experience. Has worked in different types of businesses, can code in various languages.

Why does this example fall short? This resume summary is overly broad and lacks specificity. It doesn't tell prospective employers what your career focus is, or exactly what skills and experience you bring to the table.

Good example of a software engineer resume summary

Seasoned Software Engineer with eight years of expertise, specializing in system design, data security and full-stack development. Proficient in C++, JavaScript, and Python with a proven track record of crafting efficient, scalable solutions. Led a development team at XYZ Tech that improved software release efficiency by 30%.

Why is this summary correct? This example details the candidate's experience, specialized skills, indicates their professional focus, and showcases a quantifiable achievement relevant to the role.

Remember, a strong resume summary or objective is just the launching pad you need to propel you into the interview shortlist. Make it compelling, specific, and tailored to the software engineering role on offer.

software engineer summary examples

3. Include your best hard and soft skills as a software engineer

Choosing the most relevant skills to showcase on your software engineering resume is crucial. This calls for understanding the distinction between hard and soft skills and their significance in your applications. 

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that can be measured, like proficiency in a programming language or understanding of agile methodologies. 

Soft skills , on the other hand, relate to how you work and interact with others. They're less tangible but equally important — think problem-solving or teamwork.

When you're tailoring your resume to a specific job ad, it's essential to highlight the skills mentioned in the job description first . Why? Because hiring managers or Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) may be specifically looking for these skills.

Here are examples of hard and soft skills relevant to a software engineer:

Best hard skills for a software engineer resume

  • Java, Python, C++, or other programming languages
  • Full-stack development
  • Database management
  • Debugging and code review skills
  • Knowledge of algorithms and data structures
  • Agile methodologies

Best soft skills for a software engineer resume

  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Communication
  • Adaptability

Recognizing the most effective hard and soft skills relevant to the role shows your understanding of the job and proves your direct value to your potential employer. The right blend of these skills can make your software engineering resume shine brighter than the rest.

software engineering skills examples

4. Describe your work experience and key projects as a software engineer

Your work experience section is a chance to display your professional journey and achievements. It's typically formatted in reverse chronological order and features the following:

  • The name of the company and the period of employment
  • A bulleted list summarizing your main responsibilities, achievements, and key skills demonstrated or acquired.

Now, let's consider two contrasting examples of a work experience and key projects section for a software engineer:

Bad example of a software engineer work experience section

Software Engineer, ABC Tech March 2018-Present

  • Was part of the development team

Why is this example incorrect? This example fails to show specific responsibilities, skills, or achievements the candidate held or earned during their tenure. It's vague and doesn't demonstrate the impact of the applicant's work.

Good example of a software engineer work experience section

  • Engineered an efficient database management system, improving data retrieval times by 15%.
  • Led a team of five in developing an innovative client solution that boosted user engagement by 40%.
  • Implemented strategic quality assurance methods to eliminate software errors by 30%.
  • Directed successful integration of third-party API's into company software, expanding functionality and user experience.
  • Optimized code performance, resulting in a 25% speed increase in software operations.

Key project

  • Project Lead, Cloud Migration Project: Oversaw the successful migration of the company’s product suite to a cloud-based architecture. Resulted in a 70% cost reduction in infrastructure expenses and improved uptime by 30%.

Why does it work? This revised software engineer work experience section uses strong action verbs , specifies responsibilities, and includes quantifiable achievements , which clearly shows the candidate's impact at work.

It also includes a clearly defined key project , detailing the candidate's role and the impact their leadership had on the project's success

All in all, a compelling work experience and key projects section paints a vivid picture of your capabilities. Remember to use dynamic language, be specific, include quantifiable achievements, and align your experience with the software engineering job description to showcase your fit for the new role.

5. Include action words to make your resume pop

Using action words in your software engineering resume can significantly enhance its impact. They convey your experience and achievements in a dynamic, results-oriented manner that can catch a hiring manager's attention. The importance of these power verbs lies in their ability to:

  • Paint a vivid picture of your abilities in action 
  • Highlight your initiative
  • Show results and developments that you've been instrumental in

Here's a list of impactful action words for your software engineering resume

  • Streamlined
  • Implemented

These action words can be your best pals while crafting your resume. They help make your resume stand out from the crowd and are more likely to grab the reader's attention. So, remember, what you say is important, but how you say it can make all the difference.

Software engineering resume action words

6. Make your education section count

Including an education section in your software engineering resume is critical, regardless of the level of experience. It reflects your formal training, provides context to your other qualifications, and can be a tiebreaker in close calls.

Even if your education isn't in software engineering , it's valuable information. Any degree demonstrates a dedication to learning, and critical thinking skills. Mention any relevant courses you have taken or learning projects you have undertaken.

Software engineering education section example (no related background)

Bachelor of Arts in Physics

Yale University, 2015 - 2019

  • Relevant Courses: Programming for Scientists, Electronics and Circuit Analysis
  • Projects: Collaborated on a 4-person team to create an application predicting particle motion using Python.

If your degree directly relates to software engineering , it serves as strong evidence of your knowledge and skills in this field. Highlight any esteemed honors, relevant subjects, or notable projects related to software development.

Software engineering education section example

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Harvard University, 2010 - 2014

  • Honors: Graduated Summa Cum Laude, Dean's List 2012-2014
  • Key project: Built a full-stack web application as part of end-of-year project, which significantly increased departmental efficiency.

Including an education section helps round out your software engineer resume, providing further insight into your qualifications. Regardless of your field of study, this section illustrates your problem-solving abilities, exposure to relevant concepts, and potential to contribute meaningfully to a software engineering role.

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Resume Analytics

7. Select the perfect extra sections for your software engineer resume

Including extra sections in your software engineering resume can give you the edge by showcasing your well-rounded personality, interests, and other competencies beyond your professional and academic life. 

These sections should add value and align with the role or the company culture you're applying to.

Here are three examples:

  • Volunteering: Volunteering experience, particularly if it's tech-focused, can reflect positively on your ability to apply your skills to real-world situations. It also showcases your social commitment.
  • Certifications: Certifications can add value to your resume, especially if they demonstrate specialized skills or increase your expertise in a specific area. This could include coding languages or platforms.
  • Personal projects: Side projects that show the application of your skills give potential employers a concrete demonstration of what you are capable of, even if these projects were not part of your professional or educational experience.

Here’s how you can list your extra resume sections

Volunteer activities

  • Code Mentor, Girls Who Code (2018 - Present): Providing mentoring in basic coding principles and problem-solving skills to a weekly class of high school girls interested in tech.

Certifications

  • Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer 
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Personal projects

  • Fitness Tracker App: Developed a personal fitness tracking app using React Native and Firebase, with features like activity logging, progress charts, and goal setting.

These examples offer a glimpse into your personality, display your dedication to your field, and provide a hands-on showcase of your relevant skills.

8. Avoid common mistakes on a software engineering resume

Crafting a flawless resume is no less than programming a complex system — attention to detail is crucial. Here’s how to sidestep common pitfalls in your software engineering resume:

1. Avoid vagueness

  • Mistake: "Experienced in coding."
  • Fix: "Proficient in Python, Java, and C#, with over five years of hands-on experience in both front and backend coding."

2. Shun the one-size-fits-all approach

  • Typical error: Using the same resume for every job application.
  • Fix: Instead, tailor your resume to each role you apply for. Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the individual job description.

3. Be wary of overstating

  • Regular misstep: "World-class software engineer."
  • Fix: Show your worth through your achievements and validated skills on your resume, rather than using superlatives. E.g., "Developed a data analytics tool that boosted revenue by 20%."

4. Check for typos and errors

  • Common blunder: Typos or incorrect information.
  • Fix: Proofreading your resume multiple times is essential. Consider enlisting a trustworthy friend or using a tool like Grammarly to avoid overlooked mistakes.

5. Striking the balance

  • Frequently noticed mistake: Either underestimating your role in a project or taking all the credit.
  • Fix: Giving due credit to team efforts and accurately representing your contributions is vital. It shows your ability to work in a team while showcasing your personal contributions.

Remember, your resume is often the first impression a potential employer has of you - make it count by avoiding these common mistakes.

9. Pair a relevant cover letter with your software engineer resume

A cover letter , while often overlooked, can be a powerful companion to your software engineering resume. It's especially pertinent when the job posting asks for one , or when you want to provide context or detail that your resume just doesn't accommodate.

The primary difference between a resume and a cover letter lies in their purpose and format. While a resume is a concise snapshot of your skills, experience, and education relevant to the role, a cover letter is a place to connect the dots, tell your story, and elaborate on details related to the position.

A well-tailored cover letter can offer valuable insights into your personality , motivation , and fit for the role . It's your chance to catch the hiring manager's attention, show you've done your homework about the company, and express why you're excited about the role beyond coding languages or software development strategies.

Remember, an effective cover letter doesn't rehash your resume. It complements it. It's an opportunity to showcase your communication skills and to share your professional journey in a way that a bullet-list just cannot capture. So the next time you're sending out your polished software engineering resume, consider pairing it with a compelling cover letter. You might just increase your chance of landing that coveted interview call.

10. Average salary and outlook for software engineers

Crafting a standout resume is the first step to securing a rewarding career in the field of software engineering. And understanding the industry's salary and growth outlook can surely add to your motivation. 

According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , the average yearly salary for software engineers was $127,260 in May 2022. This impressive figure reflects the high demand for skills and competencies that software engineers bring to the table.

Moreover, the future looks particularly bright for the profession. Overall employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow by a robust 25 percent from 2022 to 2032 . This is much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.

In terms of job availability, an average of 153,900 openings for software engineers are projected each year over the decade. This means that, armed with a strong resume and the right skills, your chances of landing a role are on a favorable path.

With attractive salaries and promising job prospects, software engineering certainly stands out as a rewarding career choice.

software engineers job outlook and salary

11. Top job search resources for software engineers

To support your job search journey and career growth in software engineering, plenty of resources are available. Utilizing these can help you stay current with the latest developments in the sector, refine your skills, and broaden your network. Here are some noteworthy tools and platforms:

  • GitHub: It's an essential tool for showcasing your programming chops and collaboration on projects. Building a strong GitHub profile can significantly impact recruiters and hiring managers.
  • Stack Overflow: This platform is a hub of information where developers help each other solve coding problems. It's also a source of coding news and job advertisements.
  • LeetCode: Sharpen your problem-solving skills and prepare for technical interviews with the practice problems and mock interviews available on this platform .
  • Learning platforms: Learning platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer a variety of coding courses, often taught by industry experts. You can access courses specific to various programming languages or software engineering general practices.
  • Meetups or developer groups: Check meetup.com or search online for local software engineering groups or forums. Attending these meetings can help you network with fellow professionals.
  • Tech blogs & podcasts: Following reputable tech blogs or podcasts like Coding Horror , A List Apart , or Software Engineering Daily can keep you updated with the latest trends in the tech world.

It's crucial to remember that being successful in your software engineer job search isn't only about having an exceptional resume. It's also about constant learning, networking, and staying abreast of industry trends. The resources listed above can provide invaluable support on your journey.

Software Engineering Resume FAQ

How should i list my programming languages and technical skills on a software engineering resume.

Create a dedicated 'tech skills' section and list your programming languages and technical expertise, arranging them based on your proficiency or relevance to the job.

What's the best way to showcase my software project experience or portfolio?

Detail your project experiences under "Work experience and key projects". For each project, include the name, your role, the technologies used, and measurable achievements. Also, consider providing a link to your online portfolio or GitHub account.

In what section of my software engineering resume should I feature certifications?

Include a separate "Certifications" section and list all your relevant certifications along with their issuing authority and dates.  

I'm a recent graduate with very limited work experience, what can I include on my software engineering resume?

Focus on academic projects, internships, relevant coursework, certifications, and technical skills. Highlight transferable skills and express enthusiasm for the industry.

How should I handle gaps in employment on my software engineering resume?

Don't ignore employment gaps . Instead, explain them in your cover letter or an 'additional information' section on your resume. Showcase any constructive activities during the gap, like freelance projects, courses, or volunteering that kept your skills relevant.

Julia Belak — Certified Professional Résumé Writer

Julia Belak

Julia is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) and an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC™). She is also a passionate translator and graphic designer. Julia holds degrees in translation and interpretation and has international work experience in various countries across Europe, as well as in China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and contributed as a graphic designer to outlets such as The Business of Business. You'll often find her with a book in one hand and a specialty coffee in the other, always on the lookout for new insights.

Subcategories

  • Back-End Developer / Engineer
  • Front-End Developer / Engineer
  • Software Tester
  • Web Developer

All software engineering resume examples

Software Engineering Intern at Agile Technologies Resume Sample

Related software engineering cover letter examples

Software Engineer Cover Letter Sample

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english template

13 Software Engineer Resume Examples for Your 2024 Job Search

Software Engineers are highly technical experts, skilled at designing, developing, and maintaining complex software applications. Just like a robust software program, a software engineer's resume should be well-structured, tested, and optimized for performance. In this guide, we'll review 7 software engineer resume samples and share key insights for making an impression in this highly competitive field.

software engineer resume

Resume Examples

Resume guidance.

  • High Level Resume Tips
  • Must-Have Information
  • Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important
  • Writing an Exceptional Resume Summary
  • How to Impress with Your Work Experience
  • Top Skills & Keywords
  • Go Above & Beyond with a Cover Letter
  • Resume FAQs
  • Related Resumes

Common Responsibilities Listed on Software Engineer Resumes:

  • Design, architect, develop, test, and deploy software solutions that meet customer requirements
  • Work in teams to produce high-quality software products
  • Create software architectures, designs, and specifications
  • Develop and debug user interfaces, server-side solutions, third-party services, and migration strategies
  • Take ownership of complex technical tasks and break them down into manageable chunks
  • Proactively seek out technical solutions and offer alternatives when necessary
  • Proficiently maintain, fix, refactor, and extend existing software solutions
  • Monitor system performance and stability and troubleshoot and optimize software
  • Provide technical guidance to peers and younger engineers
  • Create automated unit tests and integration tests
  • Develop software according to best practices and maintain software engineering standards
  • Manage the design, development, and deployment of new software products

You can use the examples above as a starting point to help you brainstorm tasks, accomplishments for your work experience section.

Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Spearheaded the development of a large-scale software system to meet regulatory standards, resulting in a 25% improvement in customer satisfaction
  • Upgraded a critical server-side solution with automation and optimized code to enhance security and process speed by 27%
  • Developed custom software architectures, designs, and specifications to meet customer design requirements and exceed project deadlines
  • Collaborated with a cross-functional team to design and deploy versatile and intuitive software solutions, driving a 6% increase in customer loyalty
  • Implemented a cutting-edge database migration strategy that increased database performance, while reducing operational maintenance costs by 25%
  • Installed, maintained, and debugged third-party services to optimize software performance, resulting in improved system stability and reliability
  • Tutored and provided technical guidance to peers, leading to a 15% improvement in code quality and a 15% reduction in software development bugs
  • Successfully managed the creation and debugging of user-interfaces, resulting in a 14% reduction in customer support tickets
  • Devised automated unit tests and integration tests to ensure software conformance with best practice standards, resulting in a 20% improvement in team productivity
  • Object-oriented programming
  • Database Design and Development
  • Relational Database Management Systems
  • Web Application Development
  • Software Architecture and Design
  • Software Development Lifecycle
  • Agile Methodologies
  • Software Testing and Quality Assurance
  • Code Version Control
  • Software Troubleshooting and Debugging
  • Cloud Platforms and Virtualization
  • Business Analysis and Requirements Gathering
  • Project Management
  • IT Security and Risk Mitigation
  • Automation and Scripting
  • Continuous Integration/Delivery
  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • User Experience Design
  • Software Documentation
  • Technical Team Leadership
  • Software Engineering
  • Machine Learning

Entry Level Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Successfully collaborated with co-workers to develop and implement a regular software maintenance schedule in order to ensure system reliability and robustness.
  • Implemented automated unit and integration testing to identify bugs and reduce manual testing hours.
  • Compiled comprehensive technical documentation to ensure future teams could maintain the software applications.
  • Developed application solutions that effectively addressed and integrated business requirements for multiple projects
  • Troubleshot and debugged existing software systems, leading to major improvements in workflow, user experience, and product stability
  • Assisted in the successful deployment and support of multiple software applications
  • Analyzed existing software processes and suggested novel solutions to increase overall system performance
  • Researched and implemented new technologies to maintain system integrity
  • Adhered to coding standards, thereby enhancing code effectiveness and optimizing development best practices
  • Software Development
  • Software Testing
  • Automated Testing
  • Unit Testing
  • Integration Testing
  • Troubleshooting
  • Problem-Solving
  • Documentation
  • Database Management
  • Application Design
  • System Performance Analysis
  • Requirements Gathering
  • Algorithm Design & Development
  • Business Analysis
  • Quality Assurance
  • Release Management
  • Web Programming
  • Data Structures
  • Mobile Application Development

Experienced Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Designed and developed highly performing software systems from specifications, increasing the company's productivity and speed of operations.
  • Mentored and helped junior engineers with the implementation of new software components and technologies for the company's systems.
  • Led several code reviews for software application modules and systems, resulting in improved quality performance.
  • Analyzed customer queries and technical issues to identify software bugs and produced innovative solutions to reduce troubleshooting times.
  • Improved software performance and quality standards by regularly maintaining and updating existing codebases.
  • Developed unit test plans and automated tests that ensured stable releases and improved product stability.
  • Developed technical specifications and designs that met customer requirements and business needs
  • Utilized best practices and cutting-edge technologies to optimize software for best performance
  • Led design review sessions for resolving software issues, resulting in significant cost savings for the company
  • Object-Oriented Programming
  • Database Design & Modeling
  • Software Development Life-Cycle (SDLC)
  • Code Refactoring
  • Quality Assurance (QA) Testing
  • Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery
  • Algorithms & Data Structures
  • Rest Api Design & Development
  • Cloud Technologies (Azure, AWS, GCP)
  • System Architecture Design & Implementation
  • Version Control (Git, Subversion)
  • Service-Oriented Architecture
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (Ml)
  • Security & Authentication Protocols
  • Scripting & Automation
  • Docker & Containerization
  • Blockchain Technologies

Fresher Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Developed test plans and cases to ensure software met technical and functional requirements, and subsequently created modular code that adhered to this criteria, as well as client expectations.
  • Delivered successful bug fixes and troubleshooting to coding issues within software versions while understanding and implementing software development processes.
  • Documented coding and design changes into GIT/Subversion repositories, and actively participated in group code reviews to keep software up-to-date and accurate.
  • Participated in internal development team meetings and collaborated on project scope, working to refine resourcing and provide development timelines for completion
  • Analyzed user requirements, devised and drafted functional specifications, and conducted unit tests to ensure desirable user experiences
  • Learned cloud technologies and architecture for AWS, Azure, and GCP, and presented these advancements in projects to ensure accuracy and deployability
  • Debugged coding issues and implemented feedback from team members to update code and create new models
  • Reviewed existing and incoming software changes to document the design, outline goals, and determine KPIs
  • Established and maintained software versions, ensuring cloud compatibility and collaboration with internal stakeholders to meet project deadlines
  • Database knowledge/SQL programming
  • Java development
  • RESTful API development
  • Agile/Scrum methodologies
  • Cloud technologies (AWS, Azure, GCP)
  • Version control (GIT/Subversion)
  • Domain-Driven Design
  • JavaScript development
  • Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)
  • Web Services (REST/SOAP)
  • Procedural and Functional programming
  • Linux/UNIX fundamentals
  • Debugging/troubleshooting
  • Networking fundamentals

Junior Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Developed features and functionalities for multiple software applications, making them more user-friendly and intuitive for customers and staff
  • Refactored existing code in order to improve application performance, scalability, and reliability
  • Participated in design reviews and code reviews, collaborating with other software engineers and stakeholders throughout the development process
  • Created and maintained programming and project documentation, ensuring clear and timely communication between colleagues, customers, and product owners
  • Wrote, modified, debugged, and tested code using the appropriate software development tools
  • Identified, diagnosed, and resolved technical issues in code to maintain stability and consistency in the software applications
  • Participated in daily standups and technical meetings to discuss product updates, customer feedback, and code quality
  • Implemented unit and system testing for all software programs to meet employer and customer specifications
  • Stayed up-to-date on development best practices and standards, allowing for efficient problem solving and maintenance
  • Agile methodology
  • Test-driven development
  • Relational database management
  • Version control systems
  • Cloud computing
  • Java/C++/Python/Ruby/PHP
  • API design and development
  • Systems architecture and design
  • Scripting languages (e.g. Bash, PowerShell)
  • Application development framework
  • Web/mobile development
  • Networking/distributed systems
  • Application security
  • Source code management
  • Quality Assurance (QA)
  • Documentation and UMLs

Senior Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Overhauled existing software applications to enhance reliability, performance and scalability; increased consumer conversion rate by 25%
  • Mentored and led a team of junior developers to create project designs, software testing and quality assurance plans, and execution oversight and review
  • Aggregated software project knowledge and documentation to create a central resource for future development teams

and maintenance

  • Developed high-quality software applications for a client base, resulting in improved customer satisfaction by 35%
  • Architected and implemented software solutions utilizing advanced technologies and methodologies, improving development turnaround time by 20%
  • Optimized existing software codebase to eliminate unnecessary complexity and achieve increased efficiencies in debugging and maintenance
  • Generated cost savings of over $200,000 by streamlining development process, automating unit testing and refactoring code
  • Implemented user-friendly UI/UX design standards to ensure applications are intuitive and compliant with industry standards
  • Designed and conducted software validation testing to assess the functionality and efficacy of the software, ensuring accuracy of requirements and expectations
  • Object-oriented Design/Analysis
  • Agile/Scrum/Lean Methodologies
  • Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
  • Database Design and Implementation
  • Debugging and Troubleshooting
  • Java/C/C++/Python Programming
  • Web-based Programming
  • Cloud Computing Technologies
  • Software Design/Architecture
  • Test-driven Development
  • Continuous Integration and Delivery
  • Mobile App Development
  • User Experience Design Techniques
  • Source Control Management Tools
  • Application Security & Optimization
  • Networking Protocols & Technologies
  • Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

Software Engineer Intern Resume Example:

  • Designed, developed, implemented and tested new software solutions for internal and external partners using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP, contributing to the successful completion of a major organizational project
  • Developed extensive technical documentation to accurately and clearly explain new and existing software applications
  • Assisted both colleagues and end-users with their technical inquiries, helping them to understand complex system architectures, perform troubleshooting and debugging
  • Partnered with software architects and systems engineers to ensure quality of software product, and created test plans to execute successful unit testing
  • Researched and evaluated emerging software technologies, tools and trends to inform decisions and improve existing software implementations
  • Developed user-friendly and interactive interfaces with various functions to improve the user experience, and documented each process step to create a helpful team reference manual
  • Investigated and advocated for new and innovative software solutions, working closely with product designers and software engineers to implement suggested change
  • Maintained a tech blog, providing the open source community with the latest trends, best practices and inside knowledge about software engineering
  • Translated basic user cases into working prototypes and complex models with data structures to meet the requirements and solve customer-facing bugs
  • Technical Documentation
  • Troubleshooting and Debugging
  • Research and Evaluation of Software Technologies
  • User Interface Design
  • Innovative Problem Solving
  • Prototyping
  • Systems Analysis
  • Open Source Contributions
  • Agile Methodology
  • Software Architecture
  • Software Testing and Documentation
  • Object-Oriented Design
  • Cross-Platform Development

Senior iOS Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Developed and launched a new iOS application that increased user engagement by 25% and generated $500K in revenue within the first six months.
  • Optimized application performance by implementing caching and reducing load times by 40%, resulting in a 15% increase in user retention.
  • Mentored and trained junior engineers, resulting in a 30% improvement in code quality and a 20% reduction in bug-related delays.
  • Integrated an iOS application with external systems, resulting in a 50% reduction in manual data entry and a 25% increase in data accuracy.
  • Developed and maintained automated tests, reducing testing time by 60% and increasing test coverage by 40%.
  • Researched and evaluated new technologies, leading to the adoption of Swift and improving development efficiency by 30%.
  • Designed and developed a complex iOS application that supported a 50% increase in user base and generated $1M in revenue within the first year.
  • Optimized application performance by implementing lazy loading and reducing memory usage by 30%, resulting in a 20% increase in user retention.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop new features, resulting in a 15% increase in user engagement and a 10% increase in revenue.
  • Swift programming language
  • Objective-C programming language
  • iOS SDK and frameworks
  • UIKit and SwiftUI
  • Auto Layout and Interface Builder
  • Core Data and data persistence
  • Networking and RESTful APIs
  • Multithreading and concurrency
  • Performance optimization techniques
  • Unit testing and test-driven development
  • Continuous integration and continuous deployment
  • Git and version control systems
  • Agile methodologies and Scrum
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Mentoring and team leadership
  • Research and technology evaluation
  • App Store submission and distribution
  • Accessibility and localization
  • Security best practices
  • Mobile app analytics and user engagement

Google Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Designed and implemented a new automated testing framework, resulting in a 50% reduction in testing time and a 25% increase in test coverage.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize application performance, resulting in a 30% reduction in latency and a 20% increase in user satisfaction.
  • Developed and maintained documentation for software applications, resulting in a 40% reduction in onboarding time for new engineers.
  • Developed and implemented a new build and deployment process, reducing deployment time by 60% and minimizing production issues by 50%.
  • Designed and implemented a new microservices architecture, improving system reliability by 40% and supporting a 25% increase in customer base.
  • Collaborated with other engineers to troubleshoot and debug software applications, resulting in a 30% reduction in bug-related delays.
  • Developed and maintained software applications using Google Cloud Platform (GCP), resulting in a 20% increase in application performance and a 15% reduction in operational costs.
  • Designed and implemented software solutions using Google technologies such as Java, Python, and Go, resulting in a 25% increase in team productivity and a 20% reduction in development time.
  • Participated in code reviews and provided feedback, resulting in a 30% improvement in overall code quality and a 20% reduction in production issues.
  • Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
  • Microservices architecture
  • Automated testing frameworks
  • Application performance optimization
  • Software debugging and troubleshooting
  • Build and deployment processes
  • Code review and feedback
  • Software documentation
  • Application scalability
  • System reliability
  • User satisfaction

VMware Engineer Resume Example:

  • Designed and implemented a disaster recovery plan for a large financial institution, reducing recovery time by 50% and ensuring business continuity in the event of a disaster.
  • Developed and maintained automation scripts for virtual machine provisioning, resulting in a 30% reduction in manual effort and a 20% increase in efficiency.
  • Provided technical support and training to over 100 users and IT staff, resulting in a 25% decrease in support tickets and an overall improvement in user satisfaction scores by 15%.
  • Managed the migration of a large healthcare organization's virtual infrastructure to vSphere 7, resulting in a 40% reduction in downtime and a 25% increase in system performance.
  • Developed and maintained capacity planning and performance tuning for a large e-commerce company's vSphere environment, resulting in a 20% reduction in hardware costs and a 15% increase in system efficiency.
  • Researched and evaluated new technologies and products related to vSphere environment, leading to the adoption of a new storage solution that improved system performance by 30%.
  • Designed and implemented a virtualization infrastructure for a large government agency, resulting in a 50% reduction in hardware costs and a 30% increase in system performance.
  • Developed and maintained security policies and procedures for a large financial institution's vSphere environment, resulting in compliance with industry regulations and a 20% reduction in security incidents.
  • Monitored and troubleshooted a large manufacturing company's vSphere environment for performance and availability, resulting in a 25% reduction in downtime and an overall improvement in system reliability by 15%.
  • VMware vSphere expertise
  • Disaster recovery planning
  • Virtual machine provisioning automation
  • Technical support and training
  • vSphere 7 migration
  • Capacity planning and performance tuning
  • Research and evaluation of new technologies
  • Virtualization infrastructure design and implementation
  • Security policy development and maintenance
  • vSphere environment monitoring and troubleshooting
  • Hardware cost reduction
  • System performance optimization
  • Compliance with industry regulations
  • System reliability improvement
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills

Embedded Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Designed and developed embedded software for a real-time system, including scheduling, synchronization, and communication protocols, resulting in a 25% improvement in system performance.
  • Developed software for low-level device drivers, including GPIO, UART, and I2C, resulting in a 30% reduction in system crashes and improved system stability.
  • Developed software for embedded applications, such as motor control and sensor fusion, resulting in a 20% increase in system accuracy and reliability.
  • Developed software for communication protocols such as CAN, SPI, I2C, and Ethernet, resulting in a 15% reduction in system downtime and improved system reliability.
  • Developed software for embedded operating systems, such as Linux and FreeRTOS, resulting in a 20% improvement in system performance and reduced system crashes.
  • Developed software for embedded systems, such as debugging, testing, and validation, resulting in a 25% reduction in software bugs and improved system stability.
  • Developed software for embedded systems, such as ARM Cortex-M, PIC, and AVR, resulting in a 30% improvement in system performance and reduced system crashes.
  • Developed software for embedded systems, such as bootloaders, bootstraps, and firmware, resulting in a 20% reduction in system downtime and improved system reliability.
  • Implemented version control, configuration management, and build systems, resulting in a 25% reduction in development time and improved team productivity.
  • Embedded software development
  • Real-time systems design
  • Low-level device drivers
  • Communication protocols (CAN, SPI, I2C, Ethernet)
  • Embedded operating systems (Linux, FreeRTOS)
  • Debugging and testing
  • ARM Cortex-M, PIC, and AVR microcontrollers
  • Bootloaders, bootstraps, and firmware
  • Version control and configuration management
  • Build systems and automation
  • Motor control and sensor fusion
  • Scheduling and synchronization
  • Software validation and optimization
  • Team collaboration and productivity
  • Developed and implemented a new feature for an existing software application, resulting in a 10% increase in user satisfaction and a 5% increase in user retention.
  • Collaborated with a team of developers to troubleshoot and resolve software issues, resulting in a 20% reduction in bug-related delays and an overall improvement in software quality.
  • Contributed to the development of technical documentation, ensuring that it was accurate and up-to-date for future reference.
  • Designed and developed a new software solution from scratch, meeting all project requirements and delivering it on time and within budget.
  • Collaborated with other developers to identify and implement new features, resulting in a 15% increase in user engagement and a 10% increase in revenue.
  • Participated in code reviews and provided feedback to other developers, improving overall code quality and reducing the number of bugs in the software.
  • Developed and maintained a database of customer information, ensuring that it was accurate and up-to-date at all times.
  • Worked with other developers to develop and implement unit tests and integration tests, ensuring that software was thoroughly tested before release.
  • Stayed up-to-date with new technologies and development trends, attending conferences and workshops to improve skills and knowledge.
  • Programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++)
  • Web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
  • Database management (SQL, NoSQL)
  • Software development methodologies (Agile, Scrum)
  • Version control systems (Git, SVN)
  • Debugging and troubleshooting
  • Unit testing and test automation
  • API development and integration
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Collaboration and teamwork
  • Technical documentation
  • Code review and optimization
  • Continuous integration and deployment (CI/CD)
  • Cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
  • Mobile app development (Android, iOS)
  • Machine learning and artificial intelligence frameworks
  • Cybersecurity best practices
  • Time management and organization
  • Adaptability and continuous learning

Principal Software Engineer Resume Example:

  • Led the technical design and development of a complex software project, resulting in a 30% improvement in system performance and a 25% reduction in response time.
  • Implemented a software testing plan that increased test coverage by 40% and reduced the number of critical bugs by 50%.
  • Provided technical guidance and mentorship to junior software engineers, resulting in a 20% improvement in their coding skills and a 15% increase in their productivity.
  • Developed and maintained a codebase for a mission-critical software system, achieving a 99.9% uptime and ensuring uninterrupted service for millions of users.
  • Researched and evaluated new software technologies and tools, leading to the adoption of a cloud-based infrastructure that reduced operational costs by 30%.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and debug complex software applications, resulting in a 40% reduction in customer-reported issues and an improved user experience.
  • Designed and implemented a scalable microservices architecture, enabling the company to handle a 50% increase in user traffic without any performance degradation.
  • Developed and maintained technical documentation, ensuring that the software development team had up-to-date and accurate information, resulting in a 20% reduction in development time for new features.
  • Monitored system performance and provided performance tuning and optimization, resulting in a 25% improvement in response time and a 15% reduction in server costs.
  • Expertise in software design and architecture
  • Proficiency in coding and programming languages
  • Strong knowledge of microservices architecture
  • Experience with cloud-based infrastructure
  • Ability to develop and maintain a large codebase
  • Skill in software testing and debugging
  • Proficiency in performance tuning and optimization
  • Ability to research and evaluate new software technologies and tools
  • Experience in technical documentation and knowledge transfer
  • Strong leadership and mentorship skills
  • Ability to handle high user traffic systems
  • Knowledge of system monitoring and maintenance
  • Experience in reducing operational costs and improving system performance
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Knowledge of Agile and Scrum methodologies
  • Understanding of DevOps principles
  • Familiarity with containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes
  • Experience with CI/CD pipelines
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices.

High Level Resume Tips for Software Engineers:

Highlight your technical skills: As a software engineer, your technical expertise is crucial. Emphasize your experience with software development methodologies, programming languages, and other technical tools and frameworks. Showcase your project experience: Highlight the projects you have worked on, the technologies you have used, and the results you have achieved. Be specific and quantify your accomplishments wherever possible. Highlight your software architecture skills: Software engineers must understand how to design software architectures that meet the needs of a business or organization. Highlight your experience with software design patterns and system architecture.

Must-Have Information for a Software Engineer Resume:

Here are the essential sections that should exist in a software engineer resume:

  • Contact Information
  • Resume Headline
  • Resume Summary or Objective
  • Work Experience & Achievements
  • Skills & Competencies

Additionally, if you're eager to make an impression and gain an edge over other software engineer candidates, you may want to consider adding in these sections:

  • Certifications/Training

Let's start with resume headlines.

Why Resume Headlines & Titles are Important for Software Engineers:

Software engineer resume headline examples:, strong headlines.

Experienced Software Engineer: 4+ Years of Technical Expertise

Innovative Software Engineer: Working with Emerging Technologies and Team Collaboration

Good headlines demonstrate the job seeker's hard and soft skills as they relate to the role they're applying for. The headlines demonstrate their value proposition in a concise and direct way. Additionally, good resume headlines incorporate industry-relevant keywords to ensure the content is tailored to the job description.

Weak Headlines

Software Guy with 4 Years of Experience

Just Looking for a Paycheck: Software Development

Weak resume headlines can be confusing, vague and uninspiring. They do not mention any relevant skills, nor do they portray the individual as a capable Software Engineer. Each headline fails to convey anything unique or valuable about the person. Additionally, resume headlines that make no reference to the context of the job which make the job seeker appear shallow.

Writing an Exceptional Software Engineer Resume Summary:

A resume summary is a critical component for Software Engineers, as it provides a valuable opportunity to highlight the skills, experiences, and accomplishments of your career in a brief and impactful way.

When written well, a resume summary can (and should) do the following:

  • Quickly Showcase Relevant Skills: A well-crafted summary allows Software Engineers to quickly showcase their technical abilities, such as programming languages they are proficient in, as well as their ability to work in different development environments.
  • Stand Out from the Crowd: In the extremely competitive world of software engineering, a killer summary can truly set your resume apart.
  • Highlight Key Achievements: A summary provides a front-and-center place to showcase your most notable technical achievements and accomplishments as a Software Engineer, like contributing to the development of new software or resolving a complex technical problem.
  • Impress the Hiring Manager: A strong summary will leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager and increase the chances of your resume being shortlisted for further consideration.

Here are some the key best practices to write an exceptional resume summary:

  • Tailor it to the specific job you are applying for by highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
  • Mention quantifiable achievements, such as successful project delivery or improvements to system performance.
  • Use keywords related to the software development field to make your resume more attractive to both people and applicant tracking systems (ATS).
  • Keep the summary concise and to-the-point, ideally under 4 sentences.
  • Avoid generic statements and cliches and try not to repeat any information already included in other sections of your resume.

Software Engineer Resume Summary Examples:

Strong summaries.

  • Highly-skilled Software Engineer with 4 years of experience in developing and deploying software solutions. Proven success in designing and developing software applications that meet customer requirements.
  • Innovative Software Engineer with 4 years of experience in creating and optimizing software applications. Skilled in using a variety of software development tools and technologies to develop solutions for customers.

Why these are strong:

  • These summaries demonstrate the Software Engineer's experience in developing and deploying software solutions, and in designing and developing software applications. They also demonstrate the Software Engineer's ability to use a variety of software development tools and technologies to create and optimize software applications for customers.

Weak Summaries

  • Experienced Software Engineer with 4 years of experience in developing software applications. Experience in deploying software solutions.
  • Skilled in developing and deploying software solutions.

Why these are weak:

  • These summaries are too generic and lack specifics. They do not demonstrate the Software Engineer's ability to design and develop software applications that meet customer requirements, or to use a variety of software development tools and technologies to create and optimize software applications for customers. They also do not demonstrate the Software Engineer's experience in deploying software solutions.

Resume Objective Examples for Software Engineers:

Strong objectives.

Highly motivated Software Engineer seeking to join an innovative and creative team, with experience in web languages such as HTML and CSS, as well as coding in C# and Java.

Eager to apply expertise in software development to help the company reach the highest levels of efficiency, with the ability to work independently, or as part of a team, in a fast-paced environment.

  • What makes the great objective great is that they provide concise information that showcases the Software Engineer's skills and attributes. The great objective also states the individual's desire to join an innovative team and to help the company reach higher levels of efficiency.

Weak Objectives

  • I am looking for a job as a Software Engineer.
  • Experienced Software Engineer who wants to increase their salary.
  • What makes the poor objective poor is that they do not showcase the individual's skills, attributes, or any real ability to benefit the company. Furthermore, the statements are too generic and are not clear in their purpose.

Write a More Targeted Resume with AI

Speed up your resume creation process with the resume builder . generate tailored resume summaries in seconds., how to impress with your software engineer work experience:, best practices for your work experience section:.

  • Highlight programming languages and technologies used in past roles: Specify the programming languages, frameworks and technologies used on projects/applications. Be as specific as possible.
  • Reference technical roles in detail: Describe specific accomplishments in technical roles such as development, programming, engineering, data analysis, database administration.
  • Showcase project-based work: List projects worked on in the past and detail the components involved in each one.
  • Show problem-solving skills: Detail how technical challenges were solved, highlighting any areas of expertise used to resolve the issue.
  • Demonstrate leadership skills: Describe accomplishments in team-based roles such as managing projects, leading technical initiatives, and developing relationships with stakeholders.
  • Include achievements and results: Show any awards or recognition received as a result of the job and provide specific results of the work produced.
  • Include organizational impact: Detail the big-picture impact of the work, the team, or the projects.
  • Use quantifiable terms: Give details using specific quantifiable terms such as time saved, size of codebase, number of lines of code, etc.
  • Describe unique challenges: Describe any unique or complex challenges faced and how they were solved.
  • Include relevant courses or trainings: Cite any courses or specific trainings taken for continuing education or professional development.

Example Work Experiences for Software Engineers:

Strong experiences.

Built a microservices-based architecture for a customer management system, resulting in a 50% reduction in system downtime and improved scalability.

Developed a real-time analytics dashboard for a leading telecommunications company, providing key business insights and driving strategic decisions.

Led a cross-functional team of engineers, designers, and product managers in the delivery of a new cloud-based product, on time and within budget.

Contributed to the development of a machine learning-powered recommendation engine, resulting in a 20% increase in user engagement and revenue.

Developed and maintained an enterprise-level system for a major financial institution, ensuring high availability and security.

Mentored junior engineers in the team, sharing technical knowledge and contributing to the team's overall growth.

  • The strong work experiences for a software engineer showcase technical skills, impactful results, and leadership qualities. They demonstrate a track record of delivering high-quality software solutions that drive business results and provide value to clients or customers. The examples highlight technical accomplishments such as designing and building microservices-based architecture, developing real-time analytics dashboards, and delivering new cloud-based products. They also showcase soft skills such as mentorship, cross-functional teamwork, and technical knowledge sharing.

Weak Experiences

Worked as a software engineer on various projects.

Assisted senior developers in coding and debugging.

Participated in code reviews and contributed to the development of technical documentation.

Worked as a software engineer on multiple projects.

Wrote code for various applications and modules.

Debugged and resolved technical issues.

  • The weak work experiences for a software engineer are generic and lack detail and context. They do not showcase technical skills, results, or leadership qualities, and do not provide any information about the impact the individual had in their role. The examples simply list responsibilities without any metrics, achievements, or impact, making it difficult to evaluate the candidate's experience and potential value as an employee. They lack specificity and do not provide any insights into the candidate's technical skills, problem-solving abilities, or ability to drive results.

Top Skills & Keywords for Software Engineer Resumes:

Top hard & soft skills for software engineers, hard skills.

  • Software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum)
  • Object-oriented design and programming (OOP)
  • Algorithms and data structures
  • Web development (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
  • Relational databases (e.g., SQL, Oracle)
  • Version control (e.g., Git, SVN)
  • Software testing and quality assurance
  • Cloud computing (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP)
  • Operating systems (e.g., Linux, Unix, Windows)
  • Integrated development environments (IDEs)

Soft Skills

  • Strong Communication Skills
  • Problem Solving
  • Attention to Detail
  • Adaptability
  • Critical Thinking
  • Organizational Skills

Go Above & Beyond with a Software Engineer Cover Letter

Software engineer cover letter example: (based on resume).

Dear Hiring Manager, I am excited to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company]. With over [number of years] years of experience in software development, I am confident that my skills and expertise will contribute to the continued success of your company. In my previous role as a Software Engineer, I spearheaded the development of a large-scale software system that met regulatory standards and improved customer satisfaction by 25%. Additionally, I upgraded a critical server-side solution, enhancing security and process speed by 27%. My experience in developing custom software architectures, designs, and specifications has allowed me to meet customer requirements and exceed project deadlines consistently. I am well-versed in collaborating with cross-functional teams to design and deploy versatile and intuitive software solutions that have resulted in a 6% increase in customer loyalty. I have implemented cutting-edge database migration strategies, which improved database performance and reduced operational maintenance costs by 25%. Additionally, I have installed, maintained, and debugged third-party services to optimize software performance, resulting in improved system stability and reliability. As a mentor and technical guidance provider, I have successfully improved code quality by 15% and reduced software development bugs by 15% for my peers. I have also devised automated unit tests and integration tests to ensure software conformance with best practice standards, leading to a 20% improvement in team productivity. I am confident that my skills in software development, collaboration, and leadership will make me a valuable addition to your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further in an interview. ‍

Sincerely, [Your Name]

A cover letter is an essential tool for any software engineer looking to stand out from the competition. It's an opportunity to showcase your technical skills, highlight your relevant experience, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position.

While a resume provides a summary of your skills and experience, a cover letter allows you to personalize your application and connect with the hiring manager on a deeper level. It's an opportunity to explain why you're passionate about software engineering, and show how you can add value to the organization.

Here are some of the key reasons for pairing your software engineer resume with a cover letter:

  • It demonstrates your technical skills: As a software engineer, technical skills are key. Your cover letter provides an opportunity to showcase your ability to write code, troubleshoot problems, and develop innovative solutions.
  • It shows your enthusiasm for the position: A well-written cover letter can demonstrate your passion for the role and the organization. This can make a big difference in the hiring manager's decision-making process.
  • It highlights your relevant experience: Your cover letter allows you to explain how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the job. This can help the hiring manager understand why you're a good fit for the role.
  • It sets you apart from other applicants: A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants who may have similar experience and qualifications.

We understand that writing a cover letter may seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Remember that the cover letter is an extension of your resume, so you can use the same format and content as your resume. It's also a chance to address any gaps or questions that the hiring manager may have after reading your resume.

Tips for aligning your cover letter with your resume:

  • Use the same header as your resume: This will help the hiring manager identify your application as a complete package.
  • Align the content of your cover letter with the requirements of the job: Use the job description as a guide to highlight your relevant skills and experience.
  • Use keywords from the job posting: Incorporate relevant keywords from the job posting to help your application get past applicant tracking systems (ATS).
  • Keep your cover letter concise and focused: Aim for one page and avoid repeating information from your resume.
  • Proofread carefully: Errors in your cover letter can undermine your credibility, so make sure to proofread carefully before submitting your application.

Resume FAQs for Software Engineers:

How long should i make my software engineer resume.

The ideal length for a Software Engineer’s resume should be two pages. Brevity is key - highlighting your software engineering experience, achievements, and education should be the priority. Any necessary additional information or details can be added after this. Try to focus on concisely presenting your most relevant expertise and accomplishments so as to keep the resume concise and in-depth.

What is the best way to format a Software Engineer resume?

For Software Engineers, the best resume format is one that emphasizes the candidate’s technical strengths and accomplishments, highlights their related experience and training, and excludes any irrelevant information. To provide an effective overview of an engineer’s skills, it is suggested to keep the design of the resume clean and efficient, relying on the most relevant, impactful bullets and relevant keywords to provide an organized and compelling story. Additionally, it is important to tailor the resume to each position by leveraging buzzwords and phrases found in the job description.

Which Software Engineer skills are most important to highlight in a resume?

Some of the hard skills that Software Engineers should include in a resume are: coding proficiency (in a variety of programming languages such as Java, JavaScript, Python, etc.), knowledge of development tools, experience with databases and SQL, ability to work with source control management, excellent problem-solving Skills, and ability to develop algorithms and debugging. Additionally, Software Engineers should be proficient in operating systems and software design, databases, eCommerce platforms, and cloud platform and associated technologies. Knowing various application and development frameworks such as NodeJS, Drupal, and API integration is also important for Software Engineers. Finally, Software Engineers should have experience in designing and implementing unit and integration tests and ensuring application security.

How should you write a resume if you have no experience as a Software Engineer?

If you have no experience as a Software Engineer, be sure to highlight any academic, technical and/or quantitative coursework that is relevant to the position. Also list any programming languages, systems or libraries that you have experience with. If you have relevant course projects, internship projects, or programming projects that you completed, include those in your resume too. Show your enthusiasm for software engineering by citing any certifications, awards, or other extracurricular activities you have been involved with. Finally, make sure to demonstrate your transferable skills, such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication, and how you have applied in them in other areas. These can help distinguish your resume from others without software engineering experience.

Compare Your Software Engineer Resume to a Job Description:

  • Identify opportunities to further tailor your resume to the Software Engineer job
  • Improve your keyword usage to align your experience and skills with the position
  • Uncover and address potential gaps in your resume that may be important to the hiring manager

Related Resumes for Software Engineers:

Entry level software engineer resume example, experienced software engineer resume example, fresher software engineer resume example, junior software engineer resume example, senior software engineer resume example, software engineer intern resume example, software engineer resume example, senior ios software engineer resume example, vmware engineer resume example, google software engineer resume example, embedded software engineer resume example, more resume guidance:.

Software Developer

  • • Increased the NPS score of our signature product to 8.9 by expanding the customer analytics and reporting functions of the platform.
  • • Reduced CFR to 2.8% by updating current technical documentation and organizing a series of educational sessions among team members.
  • • Boosted the traffic of 10+ traveling websites by 300% by developing search and filtering endpoints, handling information from 7 airlines and lodging websites.
  • • Onboarded 5 new clients after presenting a streamlined way of handling payment endpoint errors at DevTernity 2022.
  • • Employed Python and Django to contribute to 2 of the company's currently active projects.
  • • Debugged a long pending Auto-login issue in GUI for regression platform on day 1.
  • • Coursework in Algorithms, Computer security, Artificial intelligence, Natural language processing.
  • • Designed a project management & learning environment for a class of 40 students.
  • • Award for Upcoming SoftHero for 2019.
  • • Successfully completed courses in mathematics, Computing and Statistics
  • • Assisted the University Developer Club develop an iOS application which uses AR and VR concepts.

5 Entry Level Software Engineer Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

On your entry-level software engineer resume, it is essential to showcase your educational background and relevant coursework. Highlight any computer science or engineering degrees, as well as key subjects that have prepared you for software development. Ensure your resume includes practical experience, such as internships, hackathons, or personal projects. These demonstrate hands-on skills and a proactive approach to applying your knowledge.

All resume examples in this guide

sample resume for software engineer

Traditional

sample resume for software engineer

Resume Guide

Choose an appropriate format for your entry-level software engineer resume, reference relevant industry profiles in the resume header, outline the tech stack you’re working with in the resume summary, include internships in your software engineer experience section, don’t list your high school diploma if you have a master’s degree, compensate the tech talk by highlight your software engineering soft skills, showcase your entry-level software engineering certificates, prove you are the right candidate by adding other relevant sections, support your outstanding software engineering resume with a fitting cover letter, key takeaways.

Entry Level Software Engineer resume example

It’s time for you to start looking for a job in the tech industry and you need a foolproof resume.

We know it’s tough for first-timers. Especially with all the tech layoffs in the past few months.

So, what would make you stand out?

To write an exceptional entry-level Software Engineer resume, you must focus your efforts on:

  • Constructing a convincing experience section
  • Knowing which skills to include and how
  • Building a pairing cover letter to support your application

Our complete guide will teach you all this and more. Read on.

Given that you’re just entering the tech business world, you must consider your choice of resume format carefully.

Recruiters tend to favor the reverse-chronological resume format . It’s intuitive and readable.

You can opt for this layout, if you’ve been a prolific project-maker over the years. Not only in school, but as a hobby, too.

Yet, if you’ve stuck to the traditional academic path and haven’t tried your luck with the gig economy, use the functional resume format .

Its layout pushes your technical and social skills to the forefront. While any projects and internships you’ve done are pushed to the bottom of the resume.

If, however, you fall somewhere in-between or you’re career hopping, the hybrid resume format is your best choice.

This layout provides enough real estate for you to share relevant experience and any transferable abilities you have.

Once you pick an option that fits your expertise level, it’s time to concentrate on some format specifics.

A while ago we conducted an internal research to check out whether there are any changes in how ATS tools assess different resumes.

We wanted to verify which factors make or break a resume in 2024.

Our research found that formatting and typos are still the most important dealbreakers. Other crucial components are:

  • Colors and Design: These depend on the prospective employer. You can appeal to the company’s brand colors, but stray away from bold ones. Keep it tasteful.
  • Fonts: It goes without saying - avoid using Comic Sans or other similar fonts. You can choose from any of the popular ones in the Google library.
  • Length/Columns: Since you’re a software engineering fresher, it would be difficult to go beyond one page. Instead, think about how not to leave blank spaces.
  • Section Headings: It’s important to note that ATS tools rely on appropriately named sections. Make sure you label them accordingly.
  • File Format: PDFs are favored among most tech companies. But if you have a specific employer in mind, think outside the box.

Consider using a non-standard resume layout, such as an interactive web-based format.

By now you’re probably aware that you can’t rely on your education alone. You must display your skills in action.

As such, one of the first things hiring managers will check is your GitHub activity.

The best way to introduce your work to recruiters and tech managers is by adding your GitHub in the resume header .

Along with your:

  • First and last name
  • Current job title or preferred job title, if you’re switching careers
  • Phone number
  • Professional email address
  • LinkedIn profile or a portfolio link, if you can showcase projects outside your GitHub.

If you’re not sure whether to place something in the resume header, regard the section as your business card.

Take a look at how Gustavo Zanetti has framed his:

Typically, a key component of your resume would be the resume summary . You can still choose to write one if you have industry-related achievements to boast about.

But if you’re just starting out, think about writing a resume objective . It’s similar to the summary in terms of purpose. The only difference is its focus.

Rather than displaying career achievements, tailor the resume objective towards the company’s core projects.

Prove that your skills will benefit your prospective employer. Listing your tech stack will also help you move up into the pile of resumes.

ATS tools boost resumes which mention tools and programming languages near the top of the document.

How do you do that?

In a short paragraph of 5-6 sentences talk about:

  • Number of years in the tech industry
  • Qualifications and talents you have to offer
  • Any relevant milestones you think will improve your chances of getting hired

Compare the examples below. While the two candidates have different employment backgrounds, both are focused on project outcomes and professional development.

Depending on the type of resume format you choose, the size and position of your work experience section will vary.

Also, keep in mind that internships take precedence over side projects.

Having experience working in a corporate environment shows that you:

  • Know how to operate in a team
  • Focus on specific tasks
  • Make small contributions to larger projects

But don’t count personal projects out yet.

They prove that you have the discipline and time management skills to see your work through to the end.

When it comes to structure of your experience section, make sure you:

  • Arrange your entries in a reverse-chronological order
  • Mention your job title
  • State the name and location of your past employer, followed by a succinct description of its business focus
  • List the dates of your employment or project involvement
  • Summarize your top accomplishments in no more than 5 bullet points

Note that each of the achievements in your entries must start with an action verb . Then, continue describing a challenge you’ve tackled and the successful outcome.

Don’t forget to tie your results to data and numbers when possible. For example:

Leveraged consumer feedback, business data and log reports to develop 12 new features, thus increasing customer satisfaction by 140%.

But if you can’t cite numbers, remember that your phrasing is important. For instance:

Supported ABC company’s tech infrastructure overhaul by conducting seamless server migrations, implementing new caching methods and increasing user load.

Have a look at the following sample section for some inspiration:

We said that education isn’t everything. But your academic background is crucial because it shows how you’ve acquired your expertise.

If you’re aiming for a role in a more innovative field, having a good foundational knowledge in math is crucial.

In this case, list your bachelor’s and master’s degree on the education section of your resume. If asked, state your GPA, but only if it’s above 3.5.

Still, if you’re a self-taught professional, focus on your highest level of education and your certificates. And don’t include your high school diploma if you have a master’s degree.

Apart from your GPA, make sure to list the:

  • Full name of your degree with relevant majors and minors included
  • Name of the educational institution
  • Course length and date of validity, if applicable

Here is a sample education section you can use:

It’s easy to fall into the tech talk trap, especially if you’re too involved in the industry. But don’t forget that not every hiring manager is familiar with the essence of your work.

Sure, they will consult with the manager of the respective hiring team. But before your resume reaches the manager it must pass both the ATS tests and the HR review.

To do that, you must balance out your hard skills and your social talents.

Let’s focus on your tech abilities first. As we mentioned in the beginning, outlining your tech stack in the resume objective is necessary.

It’s even more important to continue referencing your abilities in the experience section and the skills section .

If you haven’t had the chance to list all of your tech talents or you think you’re forgetting something, check out the table below for ideas:

Key 50 technical skills for software engineers:

Providing context and results for soft skills is considerably more difficult. But it’s not impossible.

Concentrate on how your work has affected those around you.

Has your work helped solve a painful issue? Did anyone benefit from using your products?

Do you have a knack for learning new things?

Also, take into account the job description. Confirm which qualities are hiring managers looking for.

When you have your list ready, employ the same Challenge-Action-Result (CAR) method you used in the experience section:

And if you’re stuck and can’t come up with examples for your own skills section, we have some recommendations:

34 fundamental soft skills for software engineering:

  • Confidentiality

If your professional and academic background is not tech-related, the best way to prove you have what it takes to do the job is with certificates .

Show that you’re up to date with industry trends and best practices.

To make your certificates section complete, fill in the:

  • Name of your certificate
  • Issuing institution
  • Year of obtainment or expected completion
  • Expiration date (if applicable)

Among the many certificates you can add to your resume, it’s recommended you include those that confirm you know your programming basics.

Some good suggestions are:

Essential 25 software engineering certificates for your resume:

  • Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST)

One big plus about resumes is that you can attach extra sections with relevant information to impress recruiters.

Tech is practically everywhere now, so there’s plenty of ways to stand out:

  • Memberships in university clubs or relevant associations
  • List of projects , services and products you developed
  • Awards from hackathons and competitions
  • Presentations, project pitches, patents or papers you’ve authored

As long as you can boast any of these, your chances of getting hired grow exponentially.

You may think that cover letters are a thing of the past. But they are the best way to highlight your achievements and your character.

To show that your personality and work attitude match the corporate culture, pair your resume with a quality cover letter .

Divide your letter into three sections:

  • In the first paragraph, address the recruiter and list your top 1-2 achievements. You can repeat the ones you’ve included in the resume summary.
  • The second section is reserved for your core abilities, along with some background on how you’ve attained them. Share more about your personal experiences.
  • Finally, thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Notify them how and when you can be contacted, should they want to discuss your resume with you.

Entry level software engineer cover letter

  • Take into account your experience when picking a suitable resume format
  • Share your GitHub and portfolio links in the resume header
  • Reference the tech stacks you’re proficient in
  • List your internships at the top of the experience section
  • Describe how you’ve handled professional challenges so far and what you’ve learned
  • Bring variety to your resume by adding additional sections to your resume
  • Make sure your cover letter compliments your job application

entry level software engineer resume example

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How to show recruiters you're willing to relocate on your resume, how to answer "why have you changed jobs so frequently" interview question, how to answer "are you a risk taker" interview question, how to show promotion on resume: examples & guide, how to explain employment gap on resume.

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5 Rules for Writing a Software Engineer Resume That Will Get You Hired (Plus Example)

person on laptop standing at desk

Software engineers are in high demand, so there’s no shortage of opportunities for people with the right skills. But just because you know how to design cloud solutions or build server-side web applications doesn’t mean you’ll instantly have scores of interviews lined up the minute you decide to look for a new job. You’re going to need to write a great resume first.

“A great software engineer resume should have a clear narrative about who you are as an employee,” says Peenak Inamdar, Director of Engineering at The Muse. “For example, are you great at execution, are you a self-starter, do you thrive in ambiguously defined roles, or are you a pinch hitter for your skill set?” Beyond simply listing your work history, your resume should capture the full breadth of your experience as it relates to the roles you’re pursuing, thus painting a fuller picture of what you bring to the table. Here’s how to do it.

1. Customize the User (or Reader) Experience

Most candidate applications will pass through an applicant tracking system (ATS) before they reach a pair of human eyes. These programs scan each resume submitted for a job posting in search of relevant keywords to determine whether a candidate’s skills are a match for the job. If your resume is devoid of relevant terms, the ATS will probably reject your application—even if you have the right experience. So for starters, you’ll want to incorporate as many job-specific and industry-specific keywords as possible, notes Muse career coach Steven Davis, owner of Renaissance Solutions Inc. , a coaching and recruiting agency specializing in software engineering, product manager, and project manager opportunities.

Beyond that, “Try to tailor your resume to the specific job posting where possible,” Inamdar says. “Hiring managers will compare the narrative of your resume to their role to determine whether your experience is compatible.” Think: What does the recruiter or hiring manager need to know about your experience in order to understand that you’re qualified?

So as you read through a job description, take note of the skills, responsibilities, languages, and programs mentioned and remember: If you have experience with anything listed, it belongs on your resume.

On the flip side, try to avoid including skills or experiences that don’t apply. “Utilizing words or descriptions that don’t match job requirements” is one of the biggest mistakes software engineers make when drafting their resumes, according to Davis.

Relevant keywords will vary from one specialty, company, or job posting to the next, but here are a few to get you started, depending on your area of expertise:

Front-End Development Keywords

  • Back-End Data Display
  • Collaborate with Back-End Developers
  • Collaborate with Web Designers
  • Create Web Pages
  • Current Web Trends
  • Dynamic Web Page Design
  • Framework Templates
  • Search Engine Optimization
  • Software Workflow
  • Styling and Color Design
  • User Interface
  • UX (User Experience)
  • Website Content Display
  • Website Navigation Optimization

Back-End Development Keywords

  • Application Scaling
  • Back-End Framework
  • Back-End Programming Language
  • Database Administration
  • Front-End Web Technologies
  • Hosting Environment
  • Load Changes
  • Security Compliance
  • Version Control (e.g. Git)

Web Development Keywords

  • Agile Software Development
  • Application Code
  • Command Lines
  • Continuous Integration
  • DevOps Practices
  • Front-End Systems
  • LAMP Development
  • Object-Oriented Design
  • Responsive Design
  • Server-Side Scripting
  • Version Control Systems
  • Writing Modules

2. Feature Your Technical Know-How

Software engineers rely on specific programs, systems, and languages to perform their jobs, so recruiters will be especially interested in the technical skills section of your resume. That means it’s well worth investing some serious time and effort into creating a detailed technical skills section. “When I’m reviewing a candidate’s resume, I want to see how the technologies they’ve listed align with what we use. Does their technical experience mesh well with where we are as a company?” Inamdar says.

Breaking this portion of your resume down into more specific subsections will make it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to spot the specific skills they’re looking for (check out the example resume below to see this in action), so before you sit down to write your resume, make a list of the specific systems, methodologies, and platforms you’ve worked with, and note your corresponding level of expertise in each (e.g. are you fluent in JavaScript? Familiar with AngularJS? An expert in Python?). Bonus points if you’ve attended a training course or earned a certification!

Need a few examples? Davis has you covered. “Front-end developers should include frameworks such as Angular or React, back-end developers need to highlight their knowledge of the inner workings of web applications and server-side buildouts, and full-stack engineers should mention their use of Node.js or Serverless.” Davis also has a reminder for full-stack engineers: “It’s imperative to include experience with both front-end and back-end development.”

Again, tailoring your resume for each job description is crucial—especially as you’re drafting your technical skills section.

3. Be Specific About Your Accomplishments

“A great software engineer resume will demonstrate quantifiable success in areas like designing and delivering cloud solutions [or] using the latest technologies and development methodologies in DevOps, or [they’ll show their] experience with microservices, Lean, Agile, Serverless, containerization, and cloud platforms,” Davis says. Describing your experience using specific details (like the type of project, the technologies used, or the type of client) and outcomes (like a completed website design, successful application launch, or a % decrease in code churn) will help to bring your resume to life and help recruiters better understand how your experience fits into the opening they’re looking to fill.

“Make it a priority to provide context and highlight not just what your skills are, but when and how you applied them,” Inamdar explains. “If you know Scrum, when did you use it? If you’re an expert in Python, at which job did you use that language?”

So instead of writing a bland bullet point like “responsible for delivering end-to-end solutions using cloud-native platforms,” you could craft something much more compelling, like “leveraged architectural expertise in Kubernetes cloud-native platform to deliver mature end-to-end solutions for 20 unique internal applications teams.”

Notice how the second example includes details about the platform this candidate uses (Kubernetes), who they’re developing solutions for (internal applications teams), and the scope of their responsibilities (20 separate teams). Incorporating key details, technologies, or quantifiable metrics wherever possible will help your resume stand out.

Try using the below formula to craft bullet points that will paint a more detailed picture of your experience.

  • Action Verb + Job Duty + Key Details (e.g. technologies used or % increase) = Outcome

4. Choose the Right Layout

“It’s important to choose a resume layout that allows you to create a narrative that’s easy for the reader to follow. They should quickly be able to understand what you’re looking for and what your experience is,” Inamdar advises. So unless you’re making a major career pivot (more on that below), a traditional chronological layout is probably the way to go. Recruiters tend to favor chronological resumes because they’re straightforward and easy to follow.

Similarly, avoid design elements that will make your resume hard to scan—either by a computer or by a person. “Too much formatting makes your resume less searchable,” Inamdar says. For example, some ATSs have issues parsing columns and will read them straight across. Meanwhile, an overly flashy design may make it hard for even a human to quickly pick out the information they want from your resume.

Dividing your resume into clear sections (like education, experience, and technical skills) will also make a recruiter’s job easier. “Keep the formatting as simple as possible and avoid using fonts that are hard to read,” Inamdar says. “The focus should be on your work history and your skills.”

If you’re feeling nervous about getting past the ATS but want to show off your design chops, consider creating an online portfolio that you can link out to from your resume. Check out Alex Motzenbecker or Joe Laquinte’s portfolios for two good examples.

5. Remember the Basic Framework of Resume Design

No matter what your specialties are or where you are in your career, there are a few tried and true resume writing rules you’ll want to keep in mind as you draft your own.

Try to keep it to a single page. Most recruiters prefer resumes that are tailored and to the point. So unless you have decades of experience, a single-page resume should suffice. Streamlining the content of your resume to reflect the job posting you’re applying to and keeping the focus on your most recent experience should help you to keep your word count down.

Call out your key achievements. If you’ve worked on multiple projects throughout your tenure at a particular job, you might want to consider creating a key achievements subsection. This helps you highlight the projects you’re most proud of—and the ones that are most relevant to the position. You’ll see this in action on the sample resume below.

Don’t forget to edit. Your resume is a reflection of your skills and qualifications, so you’ll want to make sure it’s perfect before you click submit. Be sure to proofread every draft of your resume—even if you’re positive it’s error-free. You may also want to enlist a friend, family member, or colleague to give it a read, too!

If You’re New to the Field or Making a Pivot

If you’ve never technically worked as a software engineer, but recently earned a computer science degree or completed a robust training program (like a coding bootcamp ), you can still create a stellar resume. You’ll just need to make a few minor tweaks to the traditional format.

Write a Summary

When executed properly, summaries can serve to bridge the gap between your past experience, recent training, and future goals, helping recruiters to better understand how your skills might translate into the role you’re hoping to land. Here’s how it might all come together:

Creative, technical, design-savvy recent coding program graduate fluent in HTML, JavaScript, and CSS. Excited to blend graphic design experience with hands-on technical training in a junior-level front-end software engineering role.

Be Consistent

In addition to writing a strong resume with a focus on your most transferable skills, you’ll want to be sure you also have an updated LinkedIn profile and corresponding cover letter . “If someone is making a career pivot, I want to see consistency,” Inamdar says. “I’ll always look at their cover letter for additional context.”

Emphasize Your Education

If you don’t have much (or any) direct professional experience to speak of, your education, training, and technical skills will be especially important. So you’ll want to be sure that it stands out. Creating detailed “Education and Training” and “Technical Skills” sections and featuring them prominently toward the top of your resume will help highlight your transferable qualifications.

Play Up Your Projects

Remember that the projects you’ve completed in school totally count. You might want to consider creating a dedicated “Software Engineering Projects” section (below your education and technical skills sections) to detail your experience designing a website, coding with JavaScript, or building a web server while you were in school.

Think Outside the Box About What’s Relevant

“If you’re a career switcher, don’t feel like you need to hide your past work experience—whatever it might be,” Inamdar says. “The skills you’ve already learned are an asset because it means your next employer won’t need to teach you.” So for example, if you’ve worked as an administrative assistant before going to a coding bootcamp, don’t be shy about hiding your relevant responsibilities. “If you’ve done lots of planning or project execution, call it out. Be proud of it. Don’t bury it,” Inamdar advises.

Weigh Your Layout Options

Finally, if you’re making a career pivot, you might want to consider an alternative layout (maybe a combination or functional resume ), as these formats take the focus off of your chronological work experience while giving you the flexibility to feature your most relevant experience most prominently. One caveat, though: Recruiters and hiring managers tend to prefer more traditional chronological layouts, so there are tradeoffs to using an alternative. You can read up on the pros and cons of every option here .

Now for an Example

Whether you’re a front-end, back-end, or full-stack software engineer, you’ll want to be sure that your resume hits the right points.

As you read through the below example, make note of the relevant keywords, detailed technical skills and education sections, quantified experience, and clearly defined sections. You’ll also notice that this candidate has included external links to projects they’ve worked on and to their website. This can be a great way to showcase your creativity and accomplishments without adding length or design elements to your resume.

While your finished product might feature a different layout, focus, or specialty, it should still include the same basic building blocks.

sample resume for software engineer

Download an example software engineer resume

Your resume is a reflection of your experience, expertise, and creativity, so investing time and energy into getting it right is sure to pay off. Remember, tailoring your resume to reflect the job description, incorporating relevant keywords, and getting specific about the details of your experience will serve to strengthen your resume and ultimately help you land your next job.

Watch related employer videos:

sample resume for software engineer

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

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18 Software Engineer CV Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

As a future software engineer, your cv is key. it should show what you can do. this piece will give examples, tips and templates to help you prepare a winning cv. from skills to format, we cover all you need. remember, a good cv opens doors. let's begin that journey together, and make hiring managers sit up and take notice..

Hiring Manager for Software Engineer Roles

In the intricate language of binary, the software engineer is the poet, crafting neat lines of code into complex, elegant software that keep our digital world spinning right. It's a job of both creativity and technical prowess, where the devil is truly in the details. Reflecting these delicate strings of creativity woven with hardcore technical skills is no small challenge, especially when it's time to share everything you are and all you can do in the confines of a CV. A software engineer’s career usually starts with entry-level positions, packing in real-world coding experience. From there, it's a matter of tackling complex projects, learning new programming languages, and chasing leadership roles. As we head towards 2024, an uptick in demand for cyber-security skills is expected. Employers are also keeping an eye for soft skills like teamwork and clear communication, to bridge the gap between tech and business. Ready for a plot twist? CVs and resumes are essentially the same in the software industry. You may hear they are different, but that's a tale reserved for academia, or for job seekers in the UK, Europe, or Australia, where the term "resume" gets a new look as "CV". Regardless of the label, keep it crisp and capped at two pages. No employer has the time or the will to leaf through a novel about your career. Roll up your sleeves, as we’re diving into the nuts and bolts of what makes a CV turn heads in the sea of software engineering talent. We'll run the gamut from hot-off-the-press templates for 2024 to fuss-free ways to highlight your coding skills and add more punch to your professional experience section. Typically, we'll help you craft a CV that speaks your language and tells your story. After all, isn't that what software engineering is all about?

Software Engineer CV Templates

Jump to a template:

  • Software Engineer
  • Entry Level Software Engineer
  • Senior Software Engineer
  • Software Test Engineer
  • Software Engineering Lead
  • Software Engineer Intern
  • Experienced Software Engineer
  • Junior Software Engineer
  • Principal Software Engineer
  • Mid-Level Software Engineer
  • Software QA Engineer
  • Lead Software Engineer
  • Software Architect

Jump to a resource:

  • Keywords for Software Engineer CVs
  • Action Verbs to Use
  • Bullet Points on Software Engineer CVs
  • Related Engineering CVs
  • Similar Careers to a Software Engineer
  • Software Engineer Resume Examples

Template 1 of 18: Software Engineer CV Example

A software engineer CV is your first impression, your elevator pitch, your foot in the door to the tech world. It’s more than a piece of paper: it's a snapshot of your coding capabilities, problem-solving prowess, and your aptitude for adapting to new technologies. The tech industry evolves at a rapid pace, and the demand for software engineers is skyrocketing, so it's crucial to keep an eye on the latest coding languages, frameworks, and platforms. As such, your CV should reflect both your solid foundational skills and your ability to grow and learn as technology advances. When you write a CV for a software engineering role, bear in mind it's not just about listing your tasks and skills. It's crucial to illustrate how you applied those skills to build, refine, and troubleshoot applications. Let your accomplishments shine through, tell your story, and make it clear how you can bring value to the company.

Software engineer CV showcasing skills, projects, and tech stack.

Tips to help you write your Software Engineer CV in 2024

   show the stack, don't just tell.

Let your CV do more than just stating you know Python or Java. Show the breadth and depth of your tech stack. Are you proficient in front-end, back-end, or full-stack development? Do you have experience with modern frameworks like React or Angular? Make sure to include these details.

   Projects over positions

If you're a seasoned software engineer, you've probably worked on a number of exciting projects. Rather than focusing solely on your job titles, showcase the projects you've worked on and the problems you solved. Indicate the technologies used and the impact your contribution had on the project or company.

Projects over positions - Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Software Engineer CV

Template 2 of 18: software engineer cv example.

Whether you're a software engineer fresh out of college or a seasoned developer in the industry, your CV is your first step in showcasing your skills and impressing potential employers. It's important for you to capture their attention with a well-crafted CV that clearly exhibits your experience and technical abilities. With the tech industry becoming increasingly competitive, employers seek candidates who are not only proficient in coding but also possess a strong understanding of the latest trends and technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and data analytics. You should make it your mission to convey these proficiencies in a concise, effective manner within your CV.

A software engineer's CV showcasing their technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

   Include Specifics of your Technical Skills

Your technical skills section should be more than just a list of programming languages. Dive into the details of projects you've completed, specifying which tools, frameworks, or methodologies you used. This will show your depth of knowledge and hands-on competency.

Include Specifics of your Technical Skills - Software Engineer CV

   Showcase your Problem-Solving Abilities

Employers value software engineers who can think critically and solve complex problems. When describing your previous roles, go beyond just listing your responsibilities. Make sure you mention times when you used your skills to overcome challenges, optimize systems, or implement new solutions.

Showcase your Problem-Solving Abilities - Software Engineer CV

Template 3 of 18: Entry Level Software Engineer CV Example

An Entry Level Software Engineer position is often the first step into the tech industry for new graduates or self-taught coders. As an applicant, you're expected to strut your stuff in coding, problem-solving, and collaboration. Lately, industry trends lean towards a greater emphasis on soft skills - communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial, even for tech roles. When preparing your CV, remember this is your chance to paint the full picture, beyond your coding prowess, of what you can bring to the table. It's about showing your potential as a team player in a fast-paced, constantly evolving tech environment.

A snapshot of an Entry Level Software Engineer CV showcasing key projects and teamwork experience.

Tips to help you write your Entry Level Software Engineer CV in 2024

   showcase relevant projects and code snippets.

As an entry-level software engineer, you might not have a lot of professional experience. However, you can make up for this by showcasing projects you’ve worked on, either in school or independently. Also, attach links to GitHub or BitBucket where possible, so recruiters can see your code.

Showcase relevant projects and code snippets - Entry Level Software Engineer CV

   Detail your role in group projects

If you've been part of a coding team at university or in a coding bootcamp, ensure to indicate the specific roles you played in these projects. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate in a tech team and help recruiters envision how you'd fit into their existing structure.

Detail your role in group projects - Entry Level Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Entry Level Software Engineer CV

Template 4 of 18: entry level software engineer cv example.

Becoming an entry-level software engineer is an exciting step in your career. Breaking into the tech industry, you're diving into a world that's constantly evolving, with the latest languages, frameworks, and methodologies. Nowadays, a lot of companies expect their software engineers to not just be code monkeys, but also understand the business side of things and be able to communicate effectively with non-technical team members. When you're crafting your CV, remember it's not just about what you know, but how you can apply it. You're not just a developer, but a creative problem solver, so be sure to give examples of that. And given the agile nature of software development, demonstrating your adaptability is key, as is showcasing any hands-on experience you have with new tech trends like AI or blockchain.

A CV for an entry level software engineer role showcasing technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

   Show proficiency in multiple programming languages

As an entry-level software engineer, you should indicate a strong ability in at least one mainstream programming language, but also demonstrate a proficiency in several others. You don't need to be an expert in each one, but showing a broad knowledge base will mark you out from other candidates.

Show proficiency in multiple programming languages - Entry Level Software Engineer CV

   Give examples of your problem-solving skills

Employers want engineers who can solve complex problems in efficient ways. Use your CV to detail specific instances where you've used your creative problem-solving skills, such as debugging a complex issue, improving an algorithm, or optimizing a system's performance.

Give examples of your problem-solving skills - Entry Level Software Engineer CV

Template 5 of 18: Senior Software Engineer CV Example

A Senior Software Engineer's CV goes beyond showcasing your technical prowess. It should paint a compelling picture of the breadth and depth of your experience. Present yourself as a seasoned professional who can lead projects and mentor junior staff. The tech industry is always evolving, so emphasize your adaptability and continuous learning. Employers are particularly interested in candidates who have experience with the latest coding languages and tools, cloud platforms, AI, and machine learning. In the second section of your CV, you should focus on the tangible outcomes you've produced. A software engineer's work isn't done in isolation, it's part of a larger team effort to drive the success of the company. Showcase the impact of your work on team efficiency, product quality, and customer satisfaction.

A senior software engineer's CV displaying a mix of technical skills, professional experience, and project impacts.

Tips to help you write your Senior Software Engineer CV in 2024

   showcase technical skills and certifications.

As you craft your CV, emphasize your proficiency in a range of programming languages and your depth of knowledge in software architecture. If you've pursued any professional certifications, like AWS Certified Developer, include them here.

Showcase technical skills and certifications - Senior Software Engineer CV

   Detail successful projects and their impacts

In your experience section, describe the projects you’ve managed or contributed significantly to. Instead of focusing solely on what you did, share the results, such as how your work improved system efficiency or user experience.

Detail successful projects and their impacts - Senior Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Senior Software Engineer CV

Template 6 of 18: senior software engineer cv example.

As a Senior Software Engineer, you're entrusted with the task of not just coding but also designing and implementing software systems. You're the one holding the baton, guiding an entire team to create superior quality software. The industry is shifting towards containerization and microservices, and companies are on the hunt for engineers who can troubleshoot complex software issues, not to mention the rising emphasis on data security and privacy. When crafting your CV, make sure it's a testament to your skills and adaptability in this ever-evolving space. While you're an experienced professional, there's always room to grow and diversify your skill set. Your CV should showcase your ability to learn and adapt to new programming languages or methodologies. Besides, ensure your problem-solving prowess shines through. It's not just about what you know, but how you use what you know.

Senior Software Engineer CV highlighting expertise in modern methodologies and containerization.

   Show proficiency in modern methodologies

As a Senior Software Engineer, it's essential to show that you're not just proficient in a language but also conversant with modern methodologies. Agile, DevOps, and CI/CD are industry norms now. Include specific projects where you've applied these methodologies and their successful outcomes.

   Highlight experience with containerization and microservices

Containerization and microservices are changing the software development landscape. Hence, demonstrate in your CV how you've used Docker or Kubernetes in scaling projects. Or even better, show how you've migrated a monolithic architecture to microservices.

Highlight experience with containerization and microservices - Senior Software Engineer CV

Template 7 of 18: Software Test Engineer CV Example

Software Test Engineer is an exciting role where you're at the forefront of product quality. Much like a detective, you probe, prod, and push systems to their limits, ensuring the software performs flawlessly. Recently, with Agile and DevOps practices gaining popularity, these roles have evolved. Software Test Engineers don't just execute tests, they create them, strategize them and often work alongside developers in creating the software. So, when penning down your CV for this role, it's essential to convey both your technical prowess and your strategic thinking. Show hiring managers how you're not just a tester, but an integral part of the software development life cycle.

A practical and expert-crafted CV for a software test engineer role.

Tips to help you write your Software Test Engineer CV in 2024

   show off your automation skills.

Automation is crucial for any modern software testing role. It's not just about knowing how to use tools like Selenium or JMeter, but showing how you've applied these tools to improve testing efficiency, speed up delivery, or enhance test coverage in your previous roles.

Show off your automation skills - Software Test Engineer CV

   Detail your approach to test strategy

Your CV should also reflect how you contribute to the bigger picture. Describe how you've been involved in creating test strategies or plans. Perhaps you've spearheaded a risk-based testing approach, introduced new testing methodologies, or implemented a testing tool that improved the process. Make sure hiring managers see you as a strategic thinker, not just a tester.

Detail your approach to test strategy - Software Test Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Software Test Engineer CV

Template 8 of 18: software test engineer cv example.

As a Software Test Engineer, you're at the heart of quality control for software development, a job that's becoming ever more crucial in our tech-driven world. The trend we're noticing in the industry is a shift towards continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD), automation, and Agile methodologies. This impacts how you should present your CV. It's not just about listing the tools and programming languages you're adept in, it's about showcasing your ability to adapt, your understanding of the software development lifecycle, and your hands-on experience with testing strategies. The Software Test Engineer role has also grown to include more communication and cross-functional collaboration, so companies are now looking for professionals who are adept at working in teams and can clearly articulate technical details. This means you should communicate not just your technical proficiency in your CV, but also your interpersonal skills.

A CV screenshot for a Software Test Engineer featuring software development lifecycle and automation testing experience.

   Show your understanding of the software development lifecycle

Familiarity with the software development lifecycle is crucial for Software Test Engineers. Outline your knowledge about Agile, Scrum, or other methodologies you've used and how you applied testing strategies within these frameworks. Be specific to highlight your practical experience and understanding.

Show your understanding of the software development lifecycle - Software Test Engineer CV

   Detail your experience in automation testing

Automation skills are highly valued in Software Test Engineering. You should indicate which automation tools you’ve used (like Selenium, JUnit, or TestNG) and how they improved efficiency or accuracy in past roles. It shows your ability to maintain up-to-date testing practices.

Detail your experience in automation testing - Software Test Engineer CV

Template 9 of 18: Software Engineering Lead CV Example

Stepping up to a Software Engineering Lead role means you'll be moving from just writing code to strategising and leading a team to deliver software solutions. The tech industry is increasingly appreciating the power of effective leadership within project teams, it's not just about coding skills anymore. So, your CV needs to go beyond showcasing your technical abilities. You need to show that you are ready for the leadership aspect of this job as well. Recent trends show companies are seeking leaders who can balance technical excellence with team management. Your CV needs to demonstrate your ability to facilitate collaboration, drive innovation and solve problems while ensuring project completion within the set timelines.

A snapshot of a CV featuring leadership and advanced technical skills for a software engineering lead role.

Tips to help you write your Software Engineering Lead CV in 2024

   showcase of leadership in tech projects.

A Software Engineering Lead needs more than coding skills. You should capture any experience leading tech projects or teams. Include specific instances where you were instrumental in guiding a team, solving conflicts, or streamlining processes.

Showcase of leadership in tech projects - Software Engineering Lead CV

   Technical skills beyond the basics

Obviously, you need to outline your technical skills. But for a Software Engineering Lead, these need to be comprehensive and advanced. Mention any experience with cutting-edge programming languages, systems designs, or any kind of complex software architecture you have successfully managed.

Technical skills beyond the basics - Software Engineering Lead CV

Skills you can include on your Software Engineering Lead CV

Template 10 of 18: software engineer intern cv example.

In the tech world, a Software Engineer Internship is often a vital stepping stone to a fulfilling career. As an intern, you'll learn the ropes from seasoned professionals and gain invaluable, hands-on experience. On your CV, its crucial to convey a solid foundation in coding, problem-solving abilities, and an eagerness to learn. Recently, companies have been favoring applicants who have project-based experience that demonstrates these qualities, rather than simply relying on academic qualifications. Second, it's important to remember that the tech industry evolves quickly, so including recent learning experiences or coding languages on your CV can signal that you're staying current.

An organized CV for a Software Engineer Intern showcasing projects and proficient programming languages.

Tips to help you write your Software Engineer Intern CV in 2024

   showcase your relevant projects.

In the projects section of your CV, list any software engineering projects you've tackled. This could be anything from a small app you designed for a class project, to a coding challenge you solved. Make sure to mention the programming languages and tools used.

Showcase your relevant projects - Software Engineer Intern CV

   Include newer programming languages

Though the basics like Python or Java are always a plus, also consider including newer, in-demand languages like Rust, Go or Swift. Choose those you are most proficient at and which align with the company’s technology stack. This shows you're not just riding the wave, but are also equipped to help shape the future of software development.

Include newer programming languages - Software Engineer Intern CV

Skills you can include on your Software Engineer Intern CV

Template 11 of 18: experienced software engineer cv example.

As an experienced software engineer, you're no stranger to the dynamic nature of the tech industry. It's vital to demonstrate your ability to adapt to new technologies and paradigms on your CV. Tailor the document to reflect not just your technical abilities, but also how you applied them in real-world environments. The “stack-specific” era of hiring is waning, with more companies opting for engineers versatile in multiple languages and tools. Your CV should mirror this trend, showing you as an agile and adaptable tech professional willing to dive into new digital depths.

Screenshot of an experienced software engineer's CV showcasing technical skills and problem-solving capabilities.

Tips to help you write your Experienced Software Engineer CV in 2024

   show your experience with different programming languages.

You should include a comprehensive list of programming languages you're proficient in. However, don't just list them, show how you've used them in completing projects or achieving company goals.

Show your experience with different programming languages - Experienced Software Engineer CV

   Highlight your problem-solving skills

As an experienced engineer, you have undoubtedly encountered a wide range of software-related issues. Use your CV to showcase your problem-solving abilities by highlighting a few such instances, the challenges faced, and your innovative solutions.

Highlight your problem-solving skills - Experienced Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Experienced Software Engineer CV

Template 12 of 18: junior software engineer cv example.

The realm of a Junior Software Engineer is ever-evolving and dynamic, with an emphasis on continuous learning and skill enhancement. It's a role that often serves as the stepping stone to a promising career within technology, hence your CV should project your passion for coding and problem-solving prowess. While trends in the job market fluctuate, the demand for Junior Software Engineers remains consistently high, especially in sectors keen on digital transformations. In writing your CV, bear in mind that recruiters will be screening for technical skills, ability to work in a team, problem-solving capacity, and your potential to grow within the role. In recent years, companies are increasingly seeking candidates who not only have coding skills but also show initiative in learning new technologies to stay ahead. Therefore, when crafting your CV, it's crucial to demonstrate your adaptability and eagerness to learn. In this era where Agile and DevOps methodologies are prevalent, demonstrating your understanding of these approaches can provide you the competitive edge you need.

An exemplary CV of a Junior Software Engineer showcasing relevant skills, personal projects, and methodology experience.

Tips to help you write your Junior Software Engineer CV in 2024

   include relevant personal projects.

If you've worked on personal software projects, don't hesitate to include these in your CV. They demonstrate your initiative, creativity, and real-world experience with coding. Just be sure to explain the problem you were addressing and the technology used.

Include relevant personal projects - Junior Software Engineer CV

   Demonstrate Agile and DevOps familiarity

With Agile and DevOps becoming increasingly prevalent, you should highlight any exposure or practical experience you have with these methodologies. Do this by mentioning specific Agile or DevOps-related tools, practices, or projects in your work history section.

Demonstrate Agile and DevOps familiarity - Junior Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Junior Software Engineer CV

Template 13 of 18: principal software engineer cv example.

As a Principal Software Engineer, you’re more than just a coder. You’re a leader, a technical authority, and the driving force behind quality assurance and innovation. In recent times, companies are scouting for leadership skills and an eye for innovation rather than just technical expertise. Your CV should, thus, go beyond listing your technical skills. It should paint a picture of your ability to lead, innovate, and influence the software engineering process. Because the industry is constantly evolving, businesses are looking for Principal Software Engineers who can adapt and learn new technologies swiftly. Your CV should demonstrate your ability to stay updated with new developments. You should also display your competence in managing complex software projects and your understanding of the business or industry your potential employer operates in.

Principal Software Engineer CV showcasing leadership, adaptability and industry knowledge

Tips to help you write your Principal Software Engineer CV in 2024

   showcase your leadership and innovation.

As a Principal Software Engineer, you’re expected to lead. In your CV, make sure you share examples of how you have led teams or projects, influenced technical decisions, and driven innovation. Explain your process and the impact of your actions on the project or company.

Showcase your leadership and innovation - Principal Software Engineer CV

   Display your adaptability and industry knowledge

The tech industry is ever-changing, and Principal Software Engineers ought to keep up. Illustrate your adaptability by discussing the range of technologies you've mastered over time and the use cases. Additionally, show how your deep understanding of the sector you’ve worked in has positively influenced your projects or decisions.

Display your adaptability and industry knowledge - Principal Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Principal Software Engineer CV

Template 14 of 18: mid-level software engineer cv example.

Mid-level software engineering is a pivotal role in technology companies, tasked with bringing creativity and technical expertise together to develop and refine software applications. This role has evolved rapidly in recent years, thanks to the advent of Agile and DevOps practices, cloud computing, and advanced programming languages. Therefore, when crafting your CV, it's critical to show that you're keeping pace with these changes. Understanding current software engineering trends is a high-wire act, but it's an essential one. Apart from the core coding skills, employers are now looking for soft skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication. Make sure your CV communicates that you're not just a code wizard, but also a collaborative team player.

A CV screenshot demonstrating the skills and experience of a mid-level software engineer.

Tips to help you write your Mid-Level Software Engineer CV in 2024

   emphasize on your proficiency in new programming languages.

As a mid-level software engineer, it's important to specifically list the new age languages and frameworks you're proficient in. For instance, proficiency in JavaScript, Python, and Kotlin, or mastery of React or Angular is sought after.

Emphasize on your proficiency in new programming languages - Mid-Level Software Engineer CV

   Showcase Agile, DevOps and cloud experience

Having experience in Agile and DevOps methodologies is key to thriving in a mid-level role. This should be clearly portrayed on your CV, along with any exposure to cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Showcase Agile, DevOps and cloud experience - Mid-Level Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Mid-Level Software Engineer CV

Template 15 of 18: software qa engineer cv example.

Working as a Software QA Engineer gives you the opportunity to be the key player behind the scenes of a software company. You're the last line of defense between a buggy product and a happy customer, ensuring the product is error-free, user-friendly, and well-designed. In this era of rapid digital transformation, the demand for skilled Software QA Engineers has skyrocketed and companies are on the lookout for professionals who have an attention to detail, are solution-oriented and possess the latest technical skills. Writing a CV for this role should paint a picture of these skills, your technical knowledge and show how you've applied them in real-time to create better software products.

CV screenshot showcasing Software QA Engineer's technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

Tips to help you write your Software QA Engineer CV in 2024

   include specific testing tools and methodologies.

As a Software QA engineer, it's critical that you're proficient with a range of testing tools and methodologies. On your CV, list those you have experience with, such as Selenium or JIRA, and any methodologies like Agile or Scrum you've worked within. This will instantly strike a chord with hiring managers who use these tools or methodologies.

Include specific testing tools and methodologies - Software QA Engineer CV

   Mention problem-solving abilities with tangible results

Software QA is all about finding and solving problems. On your CV, highlight specific instances where you identified a problem, how you solved it, and what the positive outcome was. This could be a reduced number of bugs in the final product, or improved user feedback after implementing your solution.

Mention problem-solving abilities with tangible results - Software QA Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Software QA Engineer CV

Template 16 of 18: lead software engineer cv example.

The role of a Lead Software Engineer is an intriguing one. It's not just about having good coding skills or knowledge of multiple programming languages, it's also about having a strong strategic mindset, being able to lead a team, and effectively communicating with non-technical stakeholders. Recently, there's been a shift in the industry towards a more collaborative approach, with lead software engineers often working closely with product managers and UX designers. In writing your CV for this role, it's important to think beyond just listing your technical skills and qualifications, but also show your ability to lead, innovate and collaborate.

Screenshot of a CV for a Lead Software Engineer role.

Tips to help you write your Lead Software Engineer CV in 2024

   showcase leadership and collaboration.

As a lead software engineer, you'll be expected to guide and mentor your team members. Demonstrating previous leadership experience or initiatives you've taken to foster a collaborative work environment is key. Perhaps you've led a successful project or implemented a new process that improved team efficiency?

Showcase leadership and collaboration - Lead Software Engineer CV

   Highlight your strategic decision-making skills

Lead Software Engineers are often involved in strategic decision-making. Show how you've influenced software development strategies in your previous roles. Maybe you've implemented a more efficient development methodology, or advocated for the adoption of a new technology that significantly improved product performance?

Highlight your strategic decision-making skills - Lead Software Engineer CV

Skills you can include on your Lead Software Engineer CV

Template 17 of 18: software architect cv example.

When you're applying for a software architect role, remember, you're the conductor of the software development orchestra. Companies are seeking someone with vision and a strategic mind, who can translate business needs into efficient, scalable software solutions. In recent times, an increasing number of organizations have been adopting cloud-based solutions, so having experience in this area can give you an edge. When crafting your CV, think about how your experience shows you are able to orchestrate complex software systems while keeping up with the latest trends and technologies. Moving onto your CV, it has to focus on your technical expertise, leadership skills, and ability to design robust software architecture. Rather than just enumerating the technologies you've worked with, lay emphasis on your role and impact on projects, and how you've steered them towards success. Don't forget to spotlight your familiarity with cloud-based software architectures, as more firms are moving towards these modern solutions.

A well-structured CV of a Software Architect focusing on technical skills and project experiences.

Tips to help you write your Software Architect CV in 2024

   prioritize relevant technical skills and certifications.

You should outline your technical competencies, focusing especially on languages, frameworks, and tools that are relevant to the job description. Additionally, certifications like Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP) or AWS Certified Solutions Architect demonstrate your dedication to developing your skills.

Prioritize relevant technical skills and certifications - Software Architect CV

   Detail your architectural design experience

Explain your experience in designing software architecture. Discuss specific projects where you designed or improved upon system architecture, showing how your design improved efficiency, scalability, or achieved other key business goals.

Detail your architectural design experience - Software Architect CV

Skills you can include on your Software Architect CV

Template 18 of 18: software architect cv example.

As a Software Architect, you're the creative brain behind designing high-level software solutions. Your CV should reflect your ability to spot software needs and design comprehensive systems to meet those. With the tech world evolving rapidly, there's a clear trend towards cloud-based solutions, machine learning, and AI in the role of a Software Architect. Therefore, showing familiarity with these aspects can make your CV stand out. When constructing your CV, keep in mind that not only your technical expertise matters but also your ability to lead and collaborate, as these soft skills are becoming increasingly valued in software architecture.

A skill-packed CV of a Software Architect illustrating technical proficiencies and project management prowess.

   Include your technical skills and certifications

With the growing importance of cloud computing and AI in software architecture, you should list any relevant technical skills, qualifications, or certifications such as proficiency in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, along with software languages like Python, Ruby, or Java.

Include your technical skills and certifications - Software Architect CV

   Showcase your project management abilities

As a Software Architect, you often oversee projects from conception to final execution. Add any experience you have managing timelines, budgets, and teams to provide a clear picture of your ability to lead and successfully complete projects. Mention specific software or methodologies used in project management.

Showcase your project management abilities - Software Architect CV

Skills For Software Engineer Resumes

Writing a Software Engineer CV? It's important to lean into your skills. After all, this role is about more than typing code. A great software engineer thinks with logic, solves puzzles with ease, and designs with patience. Show recruiters you've got what it takes. Always double-check the job description. Add key skills that fit, either in your CV's skills section or as part of your work exploits. For example, you might say: "Built user-friendly app interface using Python". Recruiters and their digital helpers (also known as Applicant Tracking Systems) are on the hunt for these details. They help get your CV from the “maybe” pile to the “yes” pile. Keep in mind, your CV is your highlight reel. It's short, but packs a punch. Mix easy-to-read sentences with engaging industry lingo. Go beyond simply mentioning a skill—show you can use it. It's the secret to crafting a CV that jumps off the page.

  • Cloud Computing
  • Agile Methodologies
  • Integration
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • Software Development
  • Software as a Service (SaaS)
  • Enterprise Architecture
  • Software Project Management
  • Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
  • Microservices
  • Distributed Systems
  • Software Architecture
  • Enterprise Software
  • Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA)
  • Technical Leadership
  • Web Services

Skills Word Cloud For Software Engineer CVs

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Software Engineer job descriptions and CVs. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

Top Software Engineer Skills and Keywords to Include On Your CV

How to use these skills?

Action verbs for software engineer resumes.

When a hiring manager looks at your CV, they want to see action. Did you just sit in front of a computer? Or did you "innovate", "optimize" and "streamline" software solutions? Action verbs make your CV dance. They tell a hiring manager you're not just a seat filler, but a doer. For example, instead of stating, "responsible for software testing," employ a robust action verb like "spearheaded." The sentence then becomes, "Spearheaded software testing for seamless end-user experience." Or transform, "worked on team developing app" to "Collaborated in pioneering app that saw 50k installs in its first month." Powerful action verbs let hiring managers picture you in action. They show you're someone who makes things happen. Remember, the software industry moves fast. Show that you can keep pace with your words. You're not just an engineer, but a leader, a creator, and a dexterous problem-solver.

  • Administered
  • Synthesized

For more related action verbs, visit Software Engineering Action Verbs .

For a full list of effective CV action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Resume Bullet Points From Software Engineer CV

You should use bullet points to describe your achievements in your Software Engineer CV. Here are sample bullet points to help you get started:

Developed a prototype to identify key influencers on Twitter using clustering techniques over 100,000 data points in Python

Designed and implemented an automated system for processing employee timesheets, eliminating the need for manual handwritten timesheets and resulted in a 10/hr per week time saving

Created Monte Carlo simulation using Pandas (Python) to generate 30,000 sample portfolios with 8+ constraints

Designed and implemented 50+ E2E tests using Selenium & Protractor, simulating each user group's actions

Developed and implemented heavily parallelized algorithms to resize and watermark 5MM+ images of different sizes using Amazon EC2

For more sample bullet points and details on how to write effective bullet points, see our articles on resume bullet points , how to quantify your resume and resume accomplishments .

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  • Software Engineer CV Example
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Software skills for resumes

Software skills include everything from graphic design capabilities to knowledge of coding languages and artificial intelligence algorithms. Learning how to highlight software skills for resumes can showcase your abilities and help you position yourself as a strong candidate. Here’s everything tech professionals need to know about listing software and programming skills, resume writing, and cover letter creation.

Importance and benefits of software skills in the job market

Software skills for resumes help position you as a strong candidate and distinguish you from other applicants. Software abilities are in high demand and are no longer confined to the tech industry — they’re a crucial group of hard skills that are valued in almost every field, from healthcare to retail.

One of the most compelling reasons for developing software skills is the potential for improving productivity. If you’re skilled with tools like Microsoft Excel or project management platforms, you can automate repetitive tasks and manage your time more effectively.

Technology represents a foundational element of the modern workplace. Employees want to know you can use the tools they provide to thrive and collaborate with your team members. Mastering tools like Microsoft Teams or Slack can make for smoother workflows and accelerate the flow of information between you and your coworkers. 

Our resume articles can help answer other common questions about where and how to list software skills on resumes. Use these resources to unlock the benefits outlined above. 

Key software skills and where they are used

Here are some notable software skills for resumes you might consider including: 

Microsoft Office Suite

General computer skills are critical to most positions these days, and Microsoft Office Suite is one of the most commonly used software suites in the U.S.

If you know your way around Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other Office applications, make sure to let your prospective employer know. These skills are particularly valuable in fields like finance, administration, and marketing. 

The bottom line is that Microsoft Office skills are in demand. Be detailed about your proficiency level and how long you’ve been using each program. Don’t exaggerate your capabilities, as doing so can mislead hiring teams and ultimately disqualify you from the screening process.

Project management software

Roles that involve coordinating tasks and managing timelines often require familiarity with tools like Trello or Asana. These project management platforms help you stay organized and get more done each day. 

Roles in event planning, marketing, and IT often require familiarity with the company’s preferred project management software. Make a point of reading all job descriptions and expectations to find out which software you’ll need to know how to use. 

Version control systems

In software development and engineering, version control systems like Git and SVN are essential for tracking changes in code and collaborating with developers. These tools are fundamental in tech roles but are increasingly being used in other fields that require meticulous documentation and collaboration. 

Machine learning algorithms and techniques

Technical skills in data science and machine learning are becoming more sought-after. If you’re pursuing a role in tech or finance, you could advertise yourself as a strong candidate by learning ML, AI, and data science skills.

However, technical skills relevant to machine learning aren’t limited to those fields. Support and analytics professionals in a wide range of other industries also use machine learning to analyze vast quantities of data, automate processes, and promote workplace efficiency.

Neural network frameworks

If you have aspirations of working in AI and machine learning, you’ll need experience with neural network frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch. These tools are employed to build and deploy machine learning models, and they’re indispensable in fields like data science, robotics, and advanced analytics.

It can be tricky to add neural network skills to your resume in a natural and accessible way. We suggest checking out resume examples for inspiration about how best to relay complex skills and talents in your job application documents. 

Graphic design software

Do you consider yourself a creative individual? If so, knowledge of tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator can make you stand out for graphic design roles. These tools are used to create visuals for marketing materials, websites, and social media. Content creators and marketers can benefit from mastering these programs. 

Make sure you mention your graphic design or software skills in your cover letter, too, as these documents are meant to be complementary. Check out our cover letter examples for more insights about how to create a letter that bolsters your resume.

Database management systems

Roles that involve managing and analyzing large amounts of data require a knowledge of systems like MySQL and Oracle. If you have these skills, you may stand out in hiring processes for jobs in IT, finance, and research-related fields. 

Remember, each business has its own preferences regarding database management systems. Identify and prioritize companies that use the solution you’re most proficient in.

While you can still apply for positions where companies require other DBMSs, your experience with a competing system may not make you as attractive a candidate. Consequently, you’ll need to differentiate yourself in other ways.

Programming languages 

Knowledge of programming languages like Java and Python is vital for software developers. Other fields are starting to seek out people with these skills, as well. For example, if you’re applying for a role as a data analyst or data scientist, the hiring team may consider you a leading candidate if you know a programming language. 

Don’t just list the languages you know. If you’re fluent in a programming language, be specific about how you use that knowledge to support employers’ needs. For example, if you’re extremely proficient in C++, you could create a list of C++ projects for resumes to support your claims and showcase your abilities.

Mentioning your project management experience accomplishes a few things. It demonstrates that you’re actually skilled in using the coding language listed on your resume and shows the hiring team that you also possess valuable leadership skills . 

Incorporating software skills in resume sections

Learning how to list programming skills on resumes is easier than you might expect. There are a few different approaches.

If your software skills are extensive, you can create a dedicated software section. List the tools you’ve worked with and categorize them by relevance to the position or your proficiency level. For example, you might have categories like “Advanced,” “Intermediate,” and “Basic.”

If your software skills are directly relevant to the position you’re applying for, list them in your “Work Experience” section . For instance, if you used Excel to analyze sales data in a past role, you could highlight this experience and explain what you used the platform for in the description of your work responsibilities. 

Remember, you’ll also need a complementary cover letter. Jobseeker has dozens of great cover letter templates and corresponding resume templates to help streamline your job search. Simply find the resume template you like and choose the matching cover letter layout to ensure a consistent theme and style across both documents.

Expert Tip:

Quantify your experience whenever possible to showcase the real-world applications of your skills. For example, you could say something like, “Increased team efficiency by 25% through the implementation of Trello for project management.” This statement is more impactful than simply saying, “Increased efficiency with Trello.”

Questions about software skills

Be prepared to discuss any skills you list on your resume during the interview process. Think of specific examples that show how you’ve applied your skills in real-world situations. 

It’s a good idea to practice answering questions about your software skills, as well. For example, you might be asked, “Can you describe a time when your proficiency in Excel helped you solve a problem?” You’ll want to have a good answer ready to go. 

Make sure to tie your skills to specific accomplishments and outcomes. Illustrate how your technical abilities have led to previous outcomes in your previous roles. 

“Software skills for resumes help position you as a strong candidate and distinguish you from other applicants.”

Stand out with Jobseeker’s resources and templates 

Need help incorporating software skills for resumes in a natural and engaging way? Jobseeker has a huge library of resources and tools designed to support your job search. Our resume builder makes it easy to create an engaging document that will catch a hiring manager’s eye.

Don’t forget to create a complementary cover letter with our cover letter generator . A great resume and cover letter are non-negotiable for your job search. Check out Jobseeker and use our tools to get noticed.

Get ahead of the competition

Make your job applications stand-out from other candidates.

How to Structure Resume Sections

How to Structure Resume Sections

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How to Properly Display Office Skills for Resume

How To List Publications on a Resume

How To List Publications on a Resume

sample resume for software engineer

Method Financial

Financial connectivity API for consumer liabilities

Software Engineer

Jose Bethancourt

About the role

Meet method.

🔮 We built Method to propel consumer finance into the next decade. Method’s APIs are redefining financial connectivity with real-time, read-write, and frictionless access to all consumer liability data with integrated payment rails. The composability of our APIs and robust integrations into 10,000+ financial institutions allows lenders, fintechs, and other financial institutions to build products that unlock a level of autonomy never before harnessed by consumers.

We have helped 2+ million users connect 30+ million liability accounts, save them millions in interest and fees, get them access to billions of dollars in personalized loans, and earn millions of points on their purchases. We have partnered with 60+ financial institutions - including Bilt Rewards, SoFi, PenFed, Figure, Happy Money and Aven - to deliver frictionless, personalized and engaging user experiences.

We are backed by investors and advisors from Andreessen Horowitz, Y Combinator, SV Angel, Ardent Ventures, Abstract Ventures, Truist Ventures, Truebill, Upstart, and more.

About our team

As a small but fast-growing team, we value teammates who are passionate about building, scaling, all while having fun together! While we have our own roles to fill, we often find ourselves wearing multiple hats. No day is the same when you’re building from scratch. Our founding team is based across Austin and Washington D.C., with an office in New York.

To learn more about us, check out our <u>blog</u> !

As a member of the engineering team, you will own projects from end-to-end, making decisions on technical and business implications. You will have autonomy over your projects with support from the team when you need it.

What you'll do

Build and create with JavaScript across the platform. Build delightful user experiences in React and power them with a reliable backend in Node.

Investigate and debug any issues using our monitoring & logging tools as well as create clear action items to resolve them.

Help maintain our high technical bar by participating in code reviews and interviewing new team members.

Collaborate with the rest of the team to define the roadmap by thoroughly understanding customers’ needs.

Who you are

3+ years of full-time software engineering experience, ideally full-stack

Experience building scalable production-level applications. (A history of excellent projects is required)

Experience working with some combination of Node / JS, React (or similar framework) and MongoDB / NoSQL

You can clearly communicate the concepts or ideas behind your solutions, and cut big solutions into smaller bite-sized tasks

You can tow the line between moving fast and breaking things and moving slowly to get things right the first time. Technical debt is okay, we’ll refactor it later!

Natural curiosity to stay up to date with new technologies and emerging Fintech trends

Extra awesome

Experience in Finance / FinTech

Experience building data pipelines

Knowledge of payment rails such as ACH, RTP, etc.

DevOps experience with AWS, Cloudflare, and CI/CD tools

The annual US base salary range for this role is: $130,000-$150,000.

<u>Disclaimer to Staffing/Recruiting Agencies:</u> Method Financial does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies in response to our Career page or a Method Financial social media/job board post. Method Financial will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee relating to these unsolicited resumes. Method Financial explicitly reserves the right to hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Method Financial.

About Method Financial

We built Method to propel consumer finance into the next decade. Method’s APIs are redefining financial connectivity with real-time, read-write, and frictionless access to all consumer liability data with integrated payment rails. The composability of our APIs and robust integrations into 10,000+ financial institutions allows lenders, fintechs, and other financial institutions to build products that unlock a level of autonomy never before harnessed by consumers.

We have helped 2+ million users connect 15+ million liability accounts, save them millions in interest and fees, and get them access to billions of dollars in personalized loans. We have partnered with 60+ financial institutions - including Bilt Rewards, SoFi, PenFed, Figure, Happy Money and Aven - to deliver frictionless, personalized and engaging user experiences.

Method Financial

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COMMENTS

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  2. 13+ Software Engineer Resume Examples & Keywords for 2024

    Example 1. Experienced software engineer with a proven track record of delivering high-quality solutions in fast-paced environments. Proficient in Java, Python, and JavaScript, with a strong foundation in full-stack web development and the ability to work efficiently with minimal supervision.

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    Here are software engineer resume examples that include specific desired traits from a job listing: Summary sentence: Software engineer with 5+ years of experience in object-oriented design, TypeScript, and C++. Work history bullet item: Created website for appliance repair company using React and Redux.

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    Step 7: Share your certifications and awards. Step 8: List your software engineering projects. Step 9: Write your introductory statement. Step 10: Proofread. Mistakes to avoid when creating a software engineer resume. Where to go for great software engineer resume templates. Wrap-up.

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    Find 18 resume templates for software engineers with tips and skills to showcase your technical versatility and results. Learn how to tailor your resume to the job description and highlight your coding languages, projects, and certifications.

  11. Software Engineer Resume: Examples, Templates and Tips for 2024

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    13 Software Engineer Resume Examples for Your 2024 Job Search. Software Engineers are highly technical experts, skilled at designing, developing, and maintaining complex software applications. Just like a robust software program, a software engineer's resume should be well-structured, tested, and optimized for performance.

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    You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences. Our Software Engineer resume examples will help you create an effective resume that stands out while highlighting your most important skills & accomplishments.

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    Essential 25 software engineering certificates for your resume: Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP) (IEEE) Certified Internet Web Professional (CIW) Oracle (OCP, OCM, OCE) Oracle APEX. Java Programming and Data Structures. Oracle Java EE and Web Services Certification.

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    Template 5 of 18: Senior Software Engineer CV Example. A Senior Software Engineer's CV goes beyond showcasing your technical prowess. It should paint a compelling picture of the breadth and depth of your experience. Present yourself as a seasoned professional who can lead projects and mentor junior staff.

  23. Software Skills for Resumes

    In software development and engineering, version control systems like Git and SVN are essential for tracking changes in code and collaborating with developers. These tools are fundamental in tech roles but are increasingly being used in other fields that require meticulous documentation and collaboration. ... "Software skills for resumes help ...

  24. Software Engineer at Method Financial

    Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Method Financial. ... ## **Who you are** - 3+ years of full-time software engineering experience, ideally full-stack - Experience building scalable production-level applications. (A history of excellent projects is required) - Experience ...