Software Engineer Resume Keywords 2026

Use these specific keywords in your resume to help you pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catch the attention of recruiters hiring for Software Engineer roles.

Hard Skills

  • Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • API Design and Integration
  • Microservices Architecture
  • Test-Driven Development (TDD)
  • Code Review and Refactoring
  • System Design and Architecture
  • Scalable Application Development
  • Performance Optimization
  • Debugging and Troubleshooting

Technical Proficiencies

  • Java
  • Python
  • JavaScript / TypeScript
  • C++ / C#
  • React / Angular / Vue.js
  • Node.js
  • SQL (MySQL, PostgreSQL)
  • NoSQL (MongoDB, DynamoDB)
  • RESTful APIs
  • GraphQL
  • Docker
  • Kubernetes
  • Git / GitHub / GitLab
  • CI/CD (Jenkins, GitHub Actions, GitLab CI)
  • AWS / Azure / Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

Soft Skills

  • Problem Solving
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Agile Mindset
  • Communication Skills
  • Mentoring and Knowledge Sharing
  • Time Management
  • Adaptability
  • Stakeholder Management

Industry Practices & Methodologies

  • Agile / Scrum
  • Kanban
  • Continuous Integration and Deployment
  • Code Quality and Standards
  • Unit Testing / Integration Testing
  • Version Control
  • Secure Coding Practices
  • DevOps Collaboration

Industry Certifications (Optional)

  • AWS Certified Developer
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
  • Oracle Certified Professional: Java Programmer
  • Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD)
  • Scrum Master Certification (CSM / PSM)

Action Verbs

  • Designed
  • Developed
  • Implemented
  • Optimized
  • Refactored
  • Architected
  • Automated
  • Integrated
  • Debugged
  • Deployed
  • Collaborated
  • Led
  • Mentored
  • Enhanced
Pro Tip

Don't just list these keywords! Weave them naturally into your Professional Summary and Work Experience bullet points to show how you used these skills to achieve results.

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