Whether you’re getting ready to apply for your next software engineer position or want to launch a new career in software engineering, your skillset matters. By having the capabilities that today’s employers want most, you’ll have an easier time landing interviews and securing a lucrative new position.
While every employer may have different requirements for their software engineering jobs, specific skills are more commonly sought than others. Here is a look at the software engineer skills today’s employers want most.
Employers Want Software Engineers with Broader Skills
In some cases, employers list fairly broad skills on their must-have lists. Usually, these relate to a wider area of expertise, not a specific capability. However, since having these knowledge areas on your resume can make you look like a stronger match, it’s wise to include them when you apply.
Here are some of the broader skills that employers want most:
- Software Engineering
- Software Development
- Computer Engineering
Programming Languages
While employers may need software engineers that know nearly any programming language, some are more in-demand than others. Often, those that are most widely sought are popular for a variety of reasons.
In some cases, they are highly capable and efficient, making them smart choices for future application development. In others, the sheer volume of legacy code plays a role. When there is a lot of existing code, employers may prefer software engineering candidates who can maintain those applications, causing them to seek out long-standing languages when hiring.
Here are some of the most in-demand programming languages today:
- Java
- Python
- SQL
- JavaScript
- C#
- C++
- .NET
Development Skills
Development skills can include methodologies and specific capabilities that support project progression and the quality of outcomes. As a result, many employees favor candidates with specific related skills and expertise.
Here are some development skills employers want to find:
- Git
- Scrum
- Agile Development
- Debugging
- OOAD
- Docker
Systems and Architecture
Familiarity with a certain system and architecture-related skills is also essential for software engineers. Again, which ones an employer needs will depend on their existing setup and infrastructure. However, there are a few that are looked for more often than others.
Here is a list of some of the most sought-after systems and architecture-related skills and expertise:
- Linux
- Software Architecture
- Oracle
Preparing to Advance Your Software Engineering Career
Whether you’re looking for advancement opportunities or are planning on launching a new career as a software engineer, honing the skills and knowledge areas above can help you on your journey. They’ll let you position yourself as a stronger candidate, ensuring you look like a valuable asset that could benefit any team.
If you’re looking for a new software engineering position and aren’t sure where to begin your search, the skilled team at The Squires Group can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our recruitment staff today and see how our job search expertise can make finding your next role easier than ever before.
