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10 Programmer Resume Examples &...

10 Programmer Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Programmers play a crucial role in designing, writing, and maintaining software applications. Highlighting your experience with specific programming languages, notable projects you've completed, and any relevant certifications can make your resume stand out. Consider adding skills like problem-solving, debugging, and familiarity with version control systems to enhance your profile. Including metrics that demonstrate the impact of your work, along with testimonials or endorsements from colleagues, can effectively illustrate your contributions to potential employers.

All resume examples in this guide

Have you ever wondered if your skills are up to par with the job market? What about your programmer resume?

College grads know this feeling all too well.

And even if you have decades of experience under your belt, the feeling never really goes away.

There’s always pressure to know more. Or to have an obscure combination of skills and tools in your inventory.

The Imposter Syndrome is very real.

At the same time, we’ve all seen the strangely funny job ads. You know the ones - “We want someone who has 10 years of experience in a language that has existed only for 5 years”.

Makes you shiver, right?

But let’s not focus on these horror stories. Instead, let’s talk about navigating the current IT job market.

It won’t be an easy task as many of the positions have rigorous screening processes. Oftentimes vetting a potential employee takes up to a year.

But we’re here to help you set your best foot forward and get the needed callbacks.

Our thorough writing guide will teach you:

  • How to frame your resume for the specific job position
  • How to pitch yourself even if you lack working experience or just switching careers
  • How the way you tailor your resume can have an effect of the interview screening process
  • Which resume layouts are favored by hiring managers
  • What recruiters really want to know and how to show it in your resume
  • Which bits of information you need to highlight depending on your level of expertise
  • How to balance out the soft and hard skills to present a well-rounded story

How to design and build a winning programmer resume

That’s the thing with resumes - it’s all subjective.

They can vary by the programming languages you include or the experience you have. Even a shift in the focus can play a major role.

But, there are a few rules of thumb which can help you out along the way.

Having all your information at hand, first, you need to decide which resume layout is best for your case. You have three format options:

What’s the difference between the three?

Generally, the reverse-chronological resume is considered the traditional format. As such, it is most preferred by hiring managers.

Why?

It allows you to share the breadth of your expertise and the scope of your responsibilities.

But, unless:

  • you’re gunning for a senior or a managerial position
  • and have the experience to show for it

you’re better off with the other two options.

If you have some experience as a programmer, you can go hybrid. This resume layout is malleable, so you can add equal parts education and experience.

That way, you can expand on the extent of your abilities. Moreover, you can boast about all the extra talent you have to offer.

By contrast, if you’re a college grad who’s just starting to apply for jobs, consider the functional resume. The format focuses primarily on your skills and how you’ve acquired them.

Don’t forget to mention relevant college club memberships. Notable projects you’ve worked on stand out to recruiters, too.

Also, include competition awards and prizes.

All these show that you’re a proactive candidate who shows:

  • Time management skills
  • Responsibility
  • Resource management
  • Ability to learn and adapt
  • Willingness to openly discuss work processes and methodologies

Who would’ve thought you can derive so much information from an entry-level resume, huh?

So, don’t sell yourself short!

Here is how everything we’ve discussed so far sums up:

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The programmer resume sections you can't go without:

  • A well-formatted header, listing all the vital contact and portfolio information
  • A resume summary or objective, depending on your work history
  • An experience section to display your talents in action
  • A skills box to highlight your top technical and social abilities
  • An education and certificates section to show you follow the best industry practices
  • Other sections you can include to add more to your personal story

It seems like it’s almost too much to fit in one single page, doesn’t it?

Especially if you have lots to talk about.

But, there is a way around this, too. As long as you think about the questions below when deciding which bits you want to trim, you’ll be alright.

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What are recruiters searching for in your resume?

  • Which are your top three technical skills?
  • Which tools and databases are you most familiar and comfortable with?
  • Do you have any language or tool preferences? Why?
  • What attracted you to this particular role? How does it relate to your past positions?
  • Are you switching careers? Why?
  • What are your biggest accomplishments so far? What about challenges?
  • Do you have an interest in other fields you haven’t had the chance to explore yet?
  • What else motivates you?

Notice that some of these touch upon subjects you may be asked about in the interview. And this is no coincidence. After all, your resume is the prelude to the job interview.

pro tip icon
Pro tip

Oftentimes companies are searching for someone who is needed to fix a current issue. Carefully read the job requirements.

How does your resume compare to what the job demands?

The resume header: getting back to basics

It’s never a bad idea to start from the fundamental building blocks of your resume.

It may seem like a trivial exercise to you. But you do remember the first time you managed to make “Hello, world!” appear on your screen, right?

So, what are the important pieces of information you must include in your resume? You need:

  • Your name
  • The role you’re applying for
  • Address (city and state)
  • Contact information (phone number and email)
  • Link to your portfolio

Depending on the type of programming you do and your skill set, any of the following will do:

  • Github or CodePen profile
  • Personal .dev website
  • Stack Overflow profile

These give technical teams the opportunity to review your portfolio. If they like how you approach different problems, you’ve already got one foot in the door.

What about those without a portfolio?

First of all, get one.

There is no adequate excuse for not having one.

Even if it’s full of small projects, it means you’re motivated to upskill and share your work with others.

In the meantime, add your LinkedIn profile. This way recruiters can vet your social media conduct and see if you fit the company culture.

2 programmer resume header examples

Let’s look at how one of our clients, Thomas, tackled his initial draft:

Thomas Hartman
Developer
WRONG

How many issues do you see here?

  • Thomas hasn’t mentioned what type of developer he is. He could have revealed a language or a database he’s familiar with in the job title.
  • Despite listing his email, Thomas hasn’t provided another means of contact.
  • His full location is also missing. Potential employers have to verify your location for legal purposes.

Have a look at the revised version:

Thomas Hartman
Senior Java Developer
+1-602-555-5555
help@enhancv.com
Phoenix, AZ
RIGHT

Much better, isn’t it?

What’s next?

How to write an impressive resume summary which appeals to recruiters

The next on your to-do list is to come up with a compelling resume objective or summary.

What’s this?

Typically, the resume summary is your way to highlight your biggest achievements. It also serves as an elevator pitch.

Just like you can do many things with a little snippet of code, a lot can be communicated with a few sentences.

So, what’s the difference between the two?

The objective is used mainly by:

  • Entry-level candidates
  • Self-taught individuals
  • Those switching careers
  • Internship applicants
  • Junior programmers

If you lack practical experience, list your technical credentials in a resume objective. And show how you will benefit your potential employer.

In contrast, if you have some work experience under your belt and want to show off, compile a resume summary. This one is more appropriate for:

  • Mid-level and senior applicants
  • Niche specialists
  • Freelancers
  • Candidates aiming at managerial and executive positions
pro tip icon
Pro tip

Don’t forget to quantify your accomplishments. Link them to verifiable results. Hiring managers want to make sure you’re the right person for the job.

Remember, numbers speak volumes.

2 programmer resume summary examples

Check out this sample summary. Does it sound believable?

Summary
Highly-motivated developer with more than 5 years of experience. Developed applications for the financial, investment and insurance industries. Skilled in Python and MySQL.
WRONG

Not really. But why?

It’s very bland. The applicant doesn’t provide any useful information.

Yes, the candidate has detailed the amount of experience she has. The business niche is also there. Some of her skills, too.

But nothing says how these were used and to what end. The outcome is missing.

As we mentioned above, summaries are for more experienced professionals. This candidate does not paint a convincing picture of a skilled developer.

Do you know what this looks like?

Someone trying to execute code in front of a potential client and receiving a fatal error.

Here is a better edit of the summary:

Summary
Python, SQL and C++ programmer with 17 years of experience in the financial and insurance industries. Prevented more than $650 million in financial losses by designing and developing 40+ fraud detection advanced applications and features. Organized and taught over 20 online cyber security courses, which were attended by 27,000 students.
RIGHT

Wow, when can this person start work?

If you’re still unsure how to go about the resume summary, don’t get stuck. Finish all the other sections first, then think about what stands out most to you.

Or worse - if there is anything missing.

Pick your proudest accomplishment, quantify it and include it in your summary.

The programmer resume experience section: avoiding infinite loops

You may be wondering - what do infinite loops have in common with your resume?

The answer - unwanted repetition.

Many people fall into the trap of detailing the same job duties for each entry. Nobody wants to read a recycled to-do list.

To bypass this issue, apply the CAR method.

What does CAR stand for?

Challenge-Action-Result.

Think about what have been your biggest challenges at each of your past positions. How did you tackle them? What was the result?

If the job ad is focused around a particular language - customize your resume to reflect this.

For example, let’s say the position asks for someone proficient in Python. When listing your experience, put the tech-related ones in the first two bullet points.

Show how you have used Python in the past. And lead with results!

Why?

Because recruiters will immediately see the information they need.

If you show you can do the magic they want with a tool of their choice, expect a callback.

pro tip icon
Pro tip

Try to update your resume regularly. Even if you’re not currently searching for a new position. Keep track of your achievements after each performance cycle.

Consider this your cheat sheet. This way, you can tailor your resume for specific job positions.

2 programmer resume experience examples

Take a look at the following example:

Thomas Hartman
Junior Developer
Data Spider Solutions Ltd.
Phoenix, AZ
-
  • Used Python to test and debug web-based data management systems.
  • Developed and debugged applications and tools.
  • Automated work processes.
WRONG

A bit lackluster, isn’t it?

Thomas has made a few mistakes here:

  • His job title doesn’t say much when it comes to what type of programmer he is. Only when you read one of the bullet points you learn he knows Python.
  • The company description is missing. It doesn’t have to be too long. But a single sentence, mentioning the business niche is a nice touch.
  • The second and third bullet points look generic
  • None of the entries are linked to quantifiable outcomes

What can be changed?

Thomas Hartman
Junior Python Developer
Data Spider Solutions Ltd.
Phoenix, AZ
Big data management and solution provider for the healthcare industry.
  • Achieved 58% decrease in patient waiting time by testing and debugging 21+ Python web-based data management systems.
  • Reduced hospital staff reporting time by 30% as a result of developing and debugging 7+ Django-based applications and tools.
  • Won the Best Healthcare Information System Award for 2019 after participating as a tester in a three-member team.
  • Helped the in-house business analysis team increase reporting accuracy by 1.9% as a result of automating recurrent work processes.
RIGHT

Now these are results any Junior Python Developer would be proud of!

If you need more pointers on how to edit this section, read our How to Describe Your Resume Work Experience article.

Balancing out your social and technical sides on your programmer resume

Many would probably relate developers to robots because of their insane technical skills.

We all know the fun of solving a puzzle for its own sake.

But in reality, you’ll be solving human problems. So you have to show your social side, too.

That’s why when considering what to add or discard, don't let your hard skills overcrowd your resume.

The best way to exhibit your technical abilities

When listing your hard skills, there are three general rules you need to remember:

  • Try to include no more than 10 hard skills.
  • Begin your list with your strongest and most relevant abilities.
  • Consider the variety of skills you cover. Mix in various languages, tools, platforms, and cloud technologies. But make sure there is a logical connection between them.

You may be wondering about this type of skill prioritization. It’s very simple - you’re hinting at what coding environment makes you feel most comfortable.

Plus, this may play a part later on.

Why?

Because the next stage includes technical interviews.

Hiring managers may wish to confirm your preferred languages or tools. And they'll start with those you've prioritized first.

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76 key hard skills to have on your programmer resume:

  1. Visual Basic
  2. JavaScript
  3. HTML
  4. CSS
  5. Django
  6. Node.js
  7. Angular.js
  8. React.js
  9. Redux
  10. jQuery
  11. Mocha/Chai
  12. JSON
  13. REST APIs
  14. JSP
  15. C
  16. C++
  17. C#
  18. Selenium
  19. Solidity
  20. Rust
  21. Scala
  22. Haskell
  23. Go
  24. TypeScript
  25. Ruby on Rails
  26. Swift
  27. Automation
  28. Ant
  29. SQL
  30. AWS
  31. Azure DevOps
  32. PostgreSQL
  33. Docker
  34. Openshift
  35. MySQL
  36. FileMaker Pro
  37. FoxPro
  38. R
  39. Eclipse
  40. Java
  41. Python
  42. Hadoop
  43. Scikit-learn
  44. PHP
  45. Perl
  46. SAS
  47. LINQ
  48. Oracle
  49. Vb.net
  50. Kafka
  51. Falcon
  52. AIOHTTP
  53. MongoDB
  54. Springboot
  55. iOS, MacOS, Windows, Unix/ Linux
  56. Git
  57. ASP.NET
  58. MS Access
  59. Cobol
  60. JIRA
  61. Visual Studio
  62. GitHub
  63. Gimp
  64. PostMan
  65. Photoshop
  66. Atom
  67. Sublime
  68. SharePoint
  69. Jest
  70. Perficient
  71. Agile
  72. Pair Programming
  73. Scrum
  74. Kanban
  75. Test Driven Development
  76. Extreme

How to appeal to recruiters with your soft skills

There’s still a long time until AI can actually substitute humans. Even if this becomes a reality, humans will be required to act as final arbiters.

It’s not an easy task to talk about your social talents. But it’s not impossible.

All you have to remember is to quantify your skills. Yes, even social abilities can be measured.

To give you a better picture, take a look at the examples below:

Strengths
Efficiency
Achieved 68% increase in efficiency after each performance cycle after restructuring and optimizing various internal procedures.
Proactivity
Increased positive customer feedback by 72% after establishing weekly troubleshooting meetings with the marketing and UX/UI teams.
Leadership
Led a four-member team which won First Prize at the GIT Phoenix Startup Bootcamp.
RIGHT

You can use numbers, percentages, even prize awards. As long as your work is peer-reviewed and can be verified, you’re good to go.

So, now that you know how to discuss your social skills, which ones are trending?

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35 essential soft skills to have on your programmer resume:

  1. Efficiency
  2. Focus
  3. Detail-oriented
  4. Team work
  5. Time management
  6. Responsibility
  7. Precision
  8. Attention to detail
  9. Developing solutions
  10. Patience
  11. Creativity
  12. Drive to learn
  13. Communication
  14. Motivation
  15. Organization
  16. Empathy
  17. Multitasking
  18. Prototyping
  19. Design
  20. Best practices and industry standards
  21. Problem-solving
  22. Inquisitiveness
  23. Strategic thinking
  24. Analytical thinking
  25. Troubleshooting
  26. Decision-making
  27. Leadership skills
  28. Project management
  29. Resourcefulness
  30. Dedication
  31. Strong work ethic
  32. Proactivity
  33. Ability to work under pressure
  34. Initiator
  35. Risk assessment

How Important is the Education Section on a programmer’s Resume?

If you’re coming from an academic background, some of the most sought after degrees include:

  • BS Computer Science
  • BS Information Technology
  • AS Computer Information Science

But don’t worry if your education path is different.

TechRepublic reported that more and more recruiters are onboarding developers from non-traditional backgrounds.

So, don’t make the education section unnecessarily long.

Everything you’ve listed in your hard skills section can be assessed later on.

We’re truly entering an era where it’s less ‘who you know’ and more ‘what you know.’ These are long overdue changes that will benefit both candidates and employers in the long run. Hiring based on skills instead of factors like college name or the candidate’s geographic location will bring stronger, more diverse talent to the table.

Amanda Richardson, CEO at CoderPad

Here are some extra tips on how to format the Education section of your resume.

Which certificates will impress hiring managers?"?

In most cases, these are much more valuable than a degree in Computer Science.

Why?

Because many companies use branded tools and platforms. If you’ve got the brand’s seal of approval to operate their software, that’s all that matters.

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25 must-have programmer certificates for your resume:

  1. Amazon Web Services Certificate (check which one is relevant to your field)
  2. Microsoft Azure Certificate
  3. Microsoft MTA Certificate
  4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
  5. Microsoft MCSE Productivity Solutions Expert
  6. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) Certification
  7. CompTIA A+ Certification
  8. CompTIA Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) Certification
  9. CompTIA Network+ Certification
  10. CompTIA Data+
  11. CompTIA Project+
  12. CompTIA Cloud Essentials+
  13. ComTIA Server+
  14. CompTIA Cloud+
  15. CompTIA Linux+
  16. CompTIA PenTest+
  17. CompTIA CySa+
  18. CompTIA CASP+
  19. Oracle Java EE and Web Services Certification
  20. Oracle APEX
  21. Oracle (OCP, OCM, OCE)
  22. RedHat
  23. Google Cloud
  24. Cloudera (CCDH)
  25. Salesforce

Is there anything else you can add to your programmer resume?

Undoubtedly!

Depending on your circumstances, there are many things you can append to your resume. Some of these include:

You have so much to choose from. Don’t underestimate the interests section. Your hobbies can shed a light on your chosen career path

If you’re wondering what interest you can throw in the mix, here are some of our suggestions:

  • Automation
  • Robotics
  • NLP
  • AI
  • Machine Learning
  • Cyber Security

It’s Been a Long Journey: Key Takeaways Before You Start Writing

  • Take into account your education and experience and choose the appropriate resume format
  • Carefully read the job posting and tailor your resume accordingly
  • Compile a resume objective, if you’re switching careers or a junior programmer
  • Compose a resume summary if you’re striving for an executive or managerial position
  • Link to your online developer portfolio in the resume header
  • Balance out the soft and hard talents on your resume
  • Rank your technical skills by job relevance and level of familiarity
  • Don’t get discouraged if you don't have a traditional academic background

Programmer resume examples

Explore additional programmer resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

By Experience

Entry-Level Programmer

Entry-Level programming roles often require a grasp of fundamental coding principles. Include tasks and projects completed using languages like Python, Java, or C++. Highlight any understanding of the SDLC and Agile methodologies. Rather than listing programming languages, detail how you used them in projects. This could be, for example, 'Utilized Java to develop user-friendly GUI,' affirming your practical application of skills. Include any participation in coding hackathons or relevant internships.

Senior Programmer

As a Senior Programmer, it's important to be tech-savvy and updated with recent trends. When applying for jobs, make sure to emphasize your knowledge of key programming languages like Java, Python, or C#. Highlight your experience with software development methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, or DevOps, and describe how they helped deliver successful project. Give proof of your programming skills and their positive effect on past projects. Instead of just listing technical skills, explain how these skills have improved the project's results—follow the 'skill-action-results' model.

By Role

Python Programmer

Your resume as a Python Programmer should display proficiency in Python and its widely-used libraries, including tools for machine learning and data analysis. Demonstrate your skills, e.g., 'Developed an automation tool with Python's Selenium library' to express result-oriented actions. Highlight experience in integrating Python with other languages or managing databases with Python.

Java Programmer

A Java Programmer's job is closely linked to the world of software programming and is greatly affected by industry trends. If you aspire to work as a Java Programmer in the software industry, here are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure your CV emphasizes your experience with the latest version of Java and potentially other emerging languages like Kotlin or Scala. Highlight your familiarity with non-technical software development methods such as Agile, Scrum, or DevOps, since these are widely employed in today's industry. Don't forget to show how your technical skills have influenced a product's success, not just list them. Demonstrate how your skills improved product performance using phrases like 'improved code efficiency by...' or 'decreased server load through...'. This 'skill-action-results' format is recommended.

Cmm Programmer

As a CMM Programmer, it's important to emphasize your ability to create CMM programs and understand GD&T principles. Show instances where you conducted part inspection using CMM or CAD software. Include any quality control experience. For example, 'Improved accuracy of mechanical parts inspection by...% using CMM programming.'
View Cmm Programmer Resume

Cnc Programmer

For CNC Programmer positions, underscore your experience with CAM/CAD software and CNC machine operations. Demonstrate practical skills, e.g, 'Created complex machining sequences with CAM software'. Information about understanding G-codes and maintaining CNC machinery can strengthen your resume.
View Cnc Programmer Resume

PLC Programmer

PLC programmers should focus on their facility with Ladder Logic and familiarity with various PLC brands. Demonstrate how you implemented solutions, such as 'Designed machine sequence to improve production line output using Siemens PLC.' Indicating experience with troubleshooting and maintaining PLCs will reinforce your qualifications.
View PLC Programmer Resume

SAS Clinical Programmer

As a SAS Clinical Programmer, highlight your ability to write, validate, and execute SAS codes for clinical trial data analysis. Quote achievements such as 'Implemented SAS code to improve data validity by...%.' Feature your familiarity with CDISC/SDTM standards and any experience you have in working with clinical study reports.
View SAS Clinical Programmer Resume

Statistical Programmer

Statistical Programmers should vividly illustrate their experience with statistical programming languages, such as R or SAS. Show how your coding abilities were used to analyze and interpret statistical data. An example could be, 'Optimized data analysis processes using R, reducing processing time by…%.' Your knowledge of statistical techniques and databases should also be featured.
View Statistical Programmer Resume
programmer resume example

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Volen Vulkov
Volen Vulkov is a resume expert and the co-founder of Enhancv. He has written more than 500 resume guides and deep-dive articles on how to create your resume and cover letter, that inspire job applicants to make a resume to be proud of. His work has been featured in Forbes, Zendesk, HubSpot, and Business Insider, and cited by top universities and educational institutions, like Thunderbird School of Management, Rochester University, University of Miami, and Udemy. Volen applies his deep knowledge and practical experience to write about career changes, development, and how to stand out in the job application process.
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