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How to Write a Software Developer Resume

Engineering resumes are scanned fast, by both ATS and busy leads. Lead with impact and a clear stack, not a wall of buzzwords. Here is how to structure it.

How to structure it

Lead with impact, not tasks

Engineering managers skim for outcomes. "Built a feature" is weak. "Cut API p95 latency 40% by adding a Redis cache layer, serving 2M requests/day" is strong. Pair each bullet with a result and, where possible, a number.

Make your stack scannable

List languages, frameworks, and tools clearly: a dedicated skills section plus context in each role. ATS and leads both search for "React", "Python", "Kubernetes", "PostgreSQL". Put the stack you actually want to be hired for first.

Show scope and ownership

Team size, system scale, what you owned end-to-end. "Owned the billing service (6-engineer team, 99.95% uptime)" tells a manager more than a list of technologies ever could.

Link your work

A GitHub, portfolio, or live project link is worth more than adjectives. Keep it near your contact details. Make sure the linked repos actually represent you.

Keywords recruiters scan for

Work the relevant terms into your bullets. ATS and recruiters search for exactly these:

JavaScript / TypeScriptPythonReactNode.jsREST / GraphQL APIsSQL / PostgreSQLDocker / KubernetesCI/CDAWS / GCPSystem designUnit testingGitMicroservicesAgile / Scrum

Common mistakes

Recommended template: Technical or Modern. PickedCV’s ATS-friendly templates keep your stack and impact readable to both the parser and the lead — no graphics that break parsing, never watermarked.

FAQ

How long should a developer resume be?

One page for most; two if you have 8+ years. Density of impact matters more than length.

Should I include side projects?

Yes, if they show relevant skills — especially for junior roles or career changers.

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