A programmer is an Information Technology (IT) specialist who writes code for the app development process. Their role is to create mobile or desktop software based on the stakeholders’ standards. Programmers also debug and test applications to ensure they are error-free and perform smoothly.
Once the product is finished, they will also need to maintain it. Software often needs to be updated, and programmers must identify potential bugs in the system. Then, they will troubleshoot it to make sure it has seamless performance.
A developer can specialize in either front end or backend programming. They can also become full-stack software engineers and work in both areas, but it requires a lot of work.
Front end development represents the client-side of the programming process. This includes the design and visual elements of the website or application. Backend, on the other hand, is the process behind the curtains. It includes database creation and maintenance, servers, APIs, etc.
A programmer will work with multiple programming languages and frameworks depending on the product development standards. Some of the most popular coding languages are HTML, CSS, Java, Python, C, C++, and C #.
Most people often confuse the occupations of software engineer and programmer. Although they are highly related, they have some key differences. A software engineer creates the blueprint of the development operation. They design and determine functionality standards for product creation.
On the other hand, a programmer receives those instructions and writes the code to develop the application. They will create commands that the computer will follow in order to create a desktop or mobile application. Yet, software engineers can often work in the role of a programmer. It will depend on how big or small the dev team is and the client’s goals.
A programmer is a software developer that focuses on writing code, debugging, testing, and maintaining the platform. Their role is to provide commands to the computer so it can execute certain tasks. They use different programming languages like Python, Ruby, CSS, JavaScript, etc. Each of them has a different function and syntax.
To become a programmer, you don’t necessarily need to have a college degree. However, some companies require you to have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field.
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a recruitment tool to speed up the assessment process. This software scans applicants’ resumes by looking for particular keywords. This removes all the redundant and repetitive work from recruiters, so they only focus on more analytical activities such as interviewing each candidate. If you want to get past the ATS, include relevant keywords in your resume title.
Programmers must be proficient in at least one programming language. However, knowing multiple coding languages will give you more versatility, and you’ll have more job opportunities. That’s why it’s important to list them all.
A computer programmer is just another way of saying programmer. They write code, identify issues in the syntax, debug, and troubleshoot software when needed. A computer programmer often works under a software engineer’s supervision. They are provided with certain requirements and follow them throughout the entire product lifecycle.
Computer programming is generally an entry-level job. As you gain experience, you can escalate to other roles, such as software engineer. Yet, this is a great opportunity for you to get familiarized with trending techniques in the tech industry.
A great thing you can do in your computer programmer resume is to showcase your evolution in the field. You can include promotions and achievements you’ve had as a programmer, such as improving a product’s performance or building an application with clean code.
Computer programmers work in various industries, from healthcare, marketing, education, e-commerce, etc. That’s why it’s so important to be versatile. If you have transferrable skills related to that particular industry, it’s important to mention them.
As an entry-level programmer, you're breaking into an exciting and fast-paced world of coding and problem-solving. Especially in today's tech-centric landscape, your skills are much sought-after. However, competition can be tight and companies are becoming more particular, so your resume needs to shine. Given the rapid evolution of programming languages and tools, showing an ability to adapt and learn is key. It's not just about what you've done, but also about how you've grown and can continue to do so.
The first programming job is crucial as it sets the tone for your career. Employers are not just looking for technical skills, but soft skills too. They want individuals who can work well in teams, communicate effectively and make good decisions. So, when writing your resume, don't just focus on your technical abilities, but also your personal attributes and achievements that demonstrate these.
In the world of programming, practical experience is gold. Use your resume to showcase relevant projects you've completed. These can be projects from college or personal side projects. Make sure to specify the languages and tools you used and the problems you solved.
In this fast-changing industry, having up-to-date skills is essential. Include any recent certifications or courses you've completed, especially those that are in demand. This not only shows your technical prowess, but also your commitment to learning and staying relevant.
An entry-level programmer is a developer that works under direct supervision from more experienced colleagues. They write code, debug, test, and troubleshoot applications. Yet, they can also perform administrative tasks to learn more about the development team. They usually have little to zero industry experience, so they’re expected to learn constantly from the development process.
Many entry-level programmers come from online courses, coding bootcamps, and even have a bachelor’s degree, but they lack experience. An entry-level programmer can work in either backend or front end development, depending on their skills and the programming languages they know.
As an entry-level programmer, you may not have too much work experience to share on your resume. However, it doesn’t mean there’s no way you can showcase your skills. Think about relevant projects you worked on in university or on your own. You can describe them in your resume; this way, recruiters can have an idea of what you’re capable of.
Mentioning previous teams you worked with will highlight your team work skills and give the recruiters an idea of your competencies.
The Statistical Analysis System, also called SAS, is a programming environment in which developers can manage data. They can create reports, data analysis, statistics, and graphics. Programmers can also retrieve data and perform data mining. This is a great tool for programmers that also do data management.
A SAS programmer’s role is to collect data from business insights, conduct research, and perform predictive analysis. They help businesses by providing deep analytics, data management, and actionable insights. They can work on criminal investigations, business intelligence, marketing research, and finances. To become a SAS programmer, you need to have a certification provided by the SAS Institute.
As a SAS programmer, the best thing you can do for your resume is to highlight your analytical skills. You can include technical skills like data management, data mining, data retrieving, statistical knowledge, and predictive analysis. Be mindful that ATSs will look for these keywords when scanning your resume.
You can take your resume to the next level by showcasing metrics of your achievements. Remember that as SAS, you can cause a big impact on the company’s operations, so you can include accomplishments like: improving data management by up to 20 percent or generating more sales due to predictive analysis, etc.
A CNC programmer is responsible for developing software that regulates a machine’s activities. In other words, a CNC programmer will create applications to control machinery, tools, devices, equipment, or physical systems. This is a highly technical profession, so it usually requires you to have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field.
You should be familiar with software like Computer aided design CAD software and Computer-aided manufacturing CAM software. Some of the skills you should have as a CNC programmer include: algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and calculus.
Although you may have experience with other areas of software development, try to focus on CNC programming in your resume. This will make you look more specialized and give you more authority. In addition, this is exactly what you should do to get past ATSs.
As a CNC programmer, you must have excellent organizational skills. This is a job that requires logical thinking and time management skills. Therefore, you should always try to emphasize that in your resume.
A software programmer is an IT professional that builds mobile and desktop applications from scratch. They work on the backend and front end development process to create efficient and user-friendly applications. A software programmer works with various programming languages, including Java, Python, C, C++, Swift, and C#. They’re also responsible for maintaining the platform.
Action verbs can play a huge role in your resume. They will help you elaborate your message and be more precise. Software programming is a highly technical field, so using the right action verbs can help you improve readability and get past recruitment filters. Later in the guide, we’ll show you some strong action verbs that you can use.
A good software programmer will be able to deliver milestones promptly. You need to be able to meet production deadlines while still providing good results. That’s why demonstrating your time management skills will help you move your resume up the stacks. You can mention a previous project you built in the past and how you were able to submit your assignments despite difficulties.
A Java programmer is a software developer that focuses on this coding language. Java is a programming language that is object-oriented. It was created based on the C++ and C syntax. Therefore, they’re very familiar. Java is mostly used for the server-side of the development process and for database management. Programmers also use Java for game development, Android programming, and numerical computing.
If you’re looking for a Java programmer job, it is mostly because you’ve specialized in this programming language and enjoy working with it. Therefore, it’s important to prioritize your Java experience. If you haven’t worked officially as a Java programmer, you can also include interesting personal or academic projects where you used Java.
A game programmer is someone who builds video games for mobiles, desktops, and consoles. Some of the most popular programming languages for game development are C#, C++, Java, JavaScript, and Python. They are also familiar with game engines like Unity or Unreal.
Game developers are known for having creative minds. Recruiters might look for imaginative candidates with visionary, ingenious, and innovative ideas. That’s why it is important to emphasize this trade in your game development resume. You can describe projects in which you were creative and talk about your inspiration.
As we mentioned earlier, game developers must be familiar with various tools and programming languages. Therefore, you should try to mention them in your resume. You can include tools like Unity or Unreal.
As a PLC Programmer, you're responsible for writing and debugging automation equipment code, an essential role in modern manufacturing. In recent years, demand for this skill has surged as industries adopt automated systems to increase efficiency. In crafting your resume, don't underestimate the power of detailing your specific experience with PLC software and hardware, whether Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Mitsubishi, because hiring managers are looking for expertise in those specific areas.
Your resume should also reflect your problem-solving prowess, since troubleshooting is a key component of a PLC programmer's role. Showcase how you've applied your technical skills to real-world production issues and the results you achieved. In the ever-evolving tech environment, including your adaptability and eagerness to learn new systems is a plus as well.
Don't just list your responsibilities. Instead, talk about the specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes you achieved. This will showcase your problem-solving abilities and how your skills have translated into real business benefits.
Demonstrate your proficiency with specific PLC programming tools. Whether that's Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or other systems, your potential employer will likely be looking for expertise in the tools they use. If you've had training or certifications with these tools, make sure to include them.
A PLC programmer is a software developer that creates online applications for controlling industrial machinery. Their role is to automate processes in the production and manufacturing life cycle. This occupation is similar to a CNC programmer's, but they use programmable logic controllers (PLC).
Remember that you need to get past the ATSs in order to be noticed by an actual human recruiter. Therefore, you should aim to include PLC-related keywords. You can mention programming languages you know, such as Sequential Function Charts (SFC), Ladder Diagram (LD), Structured Text (ST), or Instruction List (IL).
PLC programmers are responsible for testing and ensuring that the software works smoothly. Additionally, a PLC programmer must install the programs and maintain them. That’s why it is crucial to emphasize your troubleshooting skills in your resume.
A programmer analyst works directly with the stakeholders. They meet with them to discuss production standards and translate their goals into technical requirements for other programmers. A programmer analyst defines the software's structure, design, and functionality.
They can also develop the program themselves, but it’ll depend on how big or small the IT department is. The programmer analyst will also test the application, identify issues, and troubleshoot it to maintain the system in optimal conditions.
The ideal programmer analyst is a problem-solver with a resilient mind. You can make recruiters notice your potential by explaining some of the strategies you’ve used in the past to troubleshoot applications.
A programmer analyst will not always work in place, so it’s important to showcase your ability to work remotely. Despite what most people think, working remotely doesn’t mean you have more time than before. Yet, it does mean that you can organize your schedule. Having remote working skills means meeting deadlines and communicating efficiently with your team.
Programmers must have a set of specialized skills, including knowledge of programming languages, frameworks, APIs, database management, etc. Most of the programmers’ skills are highly technical. However, they must also have logical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills. Below, you’ll find a list of some of the best skills to include in your programmer's resume.
This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Programmer job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.
Action verbs are words that you can use to emphasize your experience and explain your role more clearly. All of these action verbs are in the past tense, and you can use them on your resume to communicate your message precisely. Take a look below to find some inspiration.
For more related action verbs, visit Software Engineering Action Verbs.
For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs.
If you're a senior-level employee, or you're changing careers to become a Programmer, it's useful to add a paragraph at the top of your resume highlighting your most impressive accomplishments. This is called a resume summary.
Here's an example of a summary that can be used on a Programmer resume.
A resume summary is a totally optional section, and in most cases, it's better to leave it out of your resume than include it. For example, if you're a student or mid-level hire, you should not include a summary, and instead use the space to add to your work experience.
To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Programmer resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Programmer Resume Summary Examples, or Programmer Resume Objective Examples.
