Skills
Software Developer Skills & Tools
The technical skills, people skills and tools employers look for in software developers, and how to build and show them.
Software Developers need technical skills such as programming languages such as python, javascript or java, data structures and algorithms, and version control with git, plus people skills like problem solving and collaboration. They also use tools such as Code editors such as VS Code or IntelliJ and Git and GitHub or GitLab.
Technical (hard) skills
- Programming languages such as Python, JavaScript or Java
- Data structures and algorithms
- Version control with Git
- Testing and debugging
- Databases and APIs
- Cloud platforms
People (soft) skills
- Problem solving
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Curiosity
Tools, equipment and technology
- Code editors such as VS Code or IntelliJ
- Git and GitHub or GitLab
- Cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure or Google Cloud
- Issue trackers such as Jira
- CI/CD pipelines
- Debuggers and monitoring tools
Skills in action: common tasks
These step-by-step guides show how software developers put their skills to work:
How to show these skills on a resume
- Lead your skills section with the technical skills from the job posting, for example, “Programming languages such as Python, JavaScript or Java” and “Data structures and algorithms.”
- Prove soft skills with results: instead of listing “problem solving,” describe a situation where you used it.
- List credentials such as AWS Certified Developer – Associate near the top, with the issuing organization and date.
- Use the employer’s vocabulary. Our software developer glossary covers the terms hiring managers expect.
How to build these skills
Formal training, supervised practice and certification are the most direct routes. Our Software Developer training introduces each of these skills with plain-language lessons, procedures and a final knowledge check: a strong foundation before hands-on training or your first day.