How to Write a Developer CV: Step-by-Step Guide

In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, the role of developers holds unprecedented significance. The demand for skilled professionals in the UK is escalating, with major tech hubs like London and emerging cities such as Manchester and Edinburgh driving this surge. While advancements in AI reshape industries, developers of various specialisations must remain vigilant and stay abreast of the latest trends. 

Whether you identify as a front-end, back-end, web, or any other software developer, this article provides expert guidance on crafting a CV that aligns with current industry standards and ensures relevance in an ever-changing technological landscape. Explore valuable insights to elevate your CV and position yourself as a key player in the dynamic world of computer science and software engineering.

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Developer CV example

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Ahmed Kassa, an experienced Web Developer, opted for the simple yet professional Wheaton template. Having progressed through a series of technical roles, he is now open to new opportunities in the world of technology. Explore the matching developer cover letter example!

Guide on how to write a good developer CV 

While development roles span a broad spectrum, encompassing front-end developers, web developers, and IoS developers, the significance of a good CV cannot be overstated. The process of CV creation requires meticulous preparation, contributing to both a master CV and job-specific variations.

• Your master CV should chronicle your educational journey from initial schooling to your current position, accompanied by a comprehensive list of both hard and soft skills. This is the foundational document from which job-specific CVs can be tailored to suit specific applications.

• Crucially, tailoring your master CV to match the requirements of specific jobs is paramount. This refined version not only optimises for applicant tracking systems (ATS) but also captures the attention of recruiters, enhancing your chances of securing coveted opportunities in the diverse field of development.

1. How to write a good developer profile

Referred to as a CV personal profile, summary, or personal statement, this opening section serves as the recruiters' and hiring managers' first encounter with your CV. In this segment, you highlight your soft skills, career objectives, strengths, and possibly key qualifications.

Refer to the graduate CV example for more help to write your CV if you are finishing up your degree or have already completed it.

2. Top skills for a developer CV

Enhancing your CV with skills is a common challenge for most job seekers. You might need help determining where to highlight your skills and what specific abilities are crucial for a technical position.

In CV writing, a fundamental guideline is to discern between your various skills and ensure that you incorporate those that align closely with the requirements of your target role. This helps showcase your suitability for the position and enables you to present a tailored and impactful document to potential employers.

Essentials skills for a developer CV:

• Programming languages: Specify your proficiency in relevant languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, or others depending on your specialisation.

• Web development: Highlight skills related to front-end (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and back-end (Node.js, Django, Flask) development.

• Frameworks and libraries: Mention experience with frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue for the front end and Django, Flask, or Express for the back end.

• Database management: Showcase your expertise in databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and others, including your ability to design and optimise database structures.

• Version control/Git: Emphasize your familiarity with version control systems like Git and platforms such as GitHub or GitLab.

• Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC): Illustrate your understanding of the entire SDLC, including requirements analysis, design, coding, testing, and deployment.

• Agile/Scrum methodologies: Highlight experience working in Agile development environments and your understanding of Scrum or other methodologies.

• Cybersecurity: Given the increasing importance of security, note any skills related to secure coding practices and awareness of cybersecurity principles.

• Cloud Computing: If applicable, include experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

• Mobile Development: Specify skills related to iOS (Swift) or Android (Java/Kotlin) development if you have experience in mobile app development.

To learn more, refer to what skills to put on a CV.

3. Work experience on a developer CV

Diverse experiences shape individuals through work, volunteering, or studies, yet this section is often presented inaccurately on a CV. Rather than simply listing duties, responsibilities, and achievements in bullet points, we recommend highlighting the distinction between daily responsibilities and key achievements. Use strong action verbs to further emphasise your capabilities and accomplishments. Read more on how to highlight your work experience on your CV.

API Developer, Tech Innovators Inc., UK, 2021 - 2023

Leveraged back-end development skills, including Node.js and Python, to design and implement server-side functionality for seamless data flow. Utilised Node.js, Express, and Django to construct server-side frameworks, enhancing application efficiency and user interaction. Managed SQL and NoSQL database operations to ensure data integrity and efficient retrieval. Seamlessly integrated APIs, such as payment gateways and social media platforms, to extend application functionality. 

• Achieved a 30% reduction in page load times, significantly improving the overall user experience and increasing user engagement.

• Successfully delivered a unified and efficient system, streamlining processes and reducing response time by 25%, ultimately enhancing productivity and client satisfaction.

If you have little to no experience as a recent graduate or junior developer, you must demonstrate your transferable skills and passion/interest in a specific job or field. Refer to the below CV examples for more tips:

• Student CV

• Apprenticeship CV

• Internship CV

• School leaver CV

• Skills-based CV.

Are you creating your first CV? Follow our top tips to write a professional CV for a first job!

4. Showcase your developer education and qualifications

Regarding education on a CV, include any relevant qualifications or courses. However, education does not have to be formal; it can also be boot camps or online courses and certificates. Explore our CV tailored for career changers aiming to transition into development.

For more tips, refer to courses and certificates on a CV.

Key takeaways 

By exploring various subjects, you'll acquire valuable knowledge to propel you towards your career aspirations. Crafting your CV should ideally adhere to a strategic, systematic process. In a job market marked by heightened competition, it's essential to employ savvy tactics to ensure your CV captures attention and leaves a lasting impression amidst the growing pool of job seekers.

Next steps?

Refine your CV seamlessly using our user-friendly CV builder, which offers professional designs and CV templates. Get organised with our tips on how to track job applications and explore our templates to leave a lasting impression when sending your CV via email. For comprehensive assistance, consider our expert CV Writing Service.

FAQ

What are the types of developer jobs? 

Diverse career paths abound, encompassing roles such as software developer, iOS developer, solutions architect, development manager, chief technology officer, and more, as outlined by Wozu and Ongig.

What is the best developer CV template?

Choose from our diverse selection of templates. Your CV is a personalised marketing document, so opt for a template and layout that aligns best with your career objectives. The chosen layout can significantly influence your application, particularly when pursuing roles requiring creative and visually engaging skills, like front-end or full-stack development. For more formatting tips, refer to how long a CV should be or the importance of a chronological CV.

What are the advantages of working as a developer? 

The advantages of a career in development are boundless. To begin with, developers enjoy above-average salaries and abundant opportunities for remote work, contributing to elevated job satisfaction.