Java Developer Resume Example + Writing Tips

When it comes to careers in the IT sector, things change fast. Some career choices don’t age well, as the latest trends and technologies can render skills outdated. One exception to this rule appears to be the Java developer. Software developers in this field are in high demand today, just as they were several years ago. Per 2021 DevSkiller’s IT skills report Java and JavaScript are the two most-thought-out programming languages among employers…several years in a row. Almost 75% of businesses were hiring for JavaScript roles in 2020 and 51% were seeking Java experts. 

All of this is great news. Still, it doesn’t mean that employers are ready to skip the formalities when they see a well-suited candidate. To get the job, you’ll inevitably have to face a recruiter first, and only then a technical specialist or your future manager. So make sure that you can impress HR too via your resume and cover letter. This post features the essential tips, followed by a Java developer resume example. 

Focus Your Skills List Around Your Java Development Talents

You already know that it takes more than mastery of the Java programming language to be a marketable Java developer. You need a range of complementary skills to show that you are capable of getting the job done. Use your own experience and education to write a complete skills section for your resume.

But be sure to include some of the often-searched keywords and skills for Java developer resume such as: 

• Java Virtual Machine
• Javascript and JQuery
• SOAP 
• SOA and microservices
• Truts, Spring, Hibernate, Wicket web frameworks 
• XML and JSON 
• Java Spring
• HTML5
• HTML and CSS
• Toad
• Requirements gathering
• Software testing (QA)
• Agile/Scrum
• Time management
• Team lead
• Peer-to-peer code reviews 

Notice that the list includes some soft skills and managerial abilities that go beyond coding.

Make Your Resume ATS Friendly

It was hard enough writing resumes for the scanning eyes of hiring managers. But you must also count it the algorithms — the applicant tracking software. To make sure your resume gets past the machine, be sure to properly optimize it with keywords. 

The best place to mine the relevant keywords is in the job listing. Use these words and phrases in your work history, professional resume summary, and skills list. 

Also, use the following optimizations to make your resume ATS-friendly:

• Avoid fancy fonts
• Use bullet points
• Add the keywords naturally

Show Evidence of Your Accomplishments

You know how to code. But do you know how your coding contributes to the end-business goals? Hiring managers will want to know how you deploy your Java knowledge to achieve results in the business context. So make sure you explain that in your resume. 

You can do that by creating a portfolio and linking it in your contact information. Don’t forget to link your GitHub or any other source that contains code samples, or working examples of software you’ve created.

Also, quantify your work experience. Use numbers and list concrete outcomes of your input.  For example, rather than stating ‘Implemented a testing procedure to catch more bugs prior to release’ consider ‘Implemented a testing procedure that reduced post-release bug reports by 15%’.

Use All Relevant Experience

If you lack work experience, you will have to use other means to prove that you can do the job of Java developer. Here are some things to try:

• Create a projects section of your resume that links to development work you have done. Link to specific samples.
• Include work you’ve done in school, internships, or as a hobby.
• Highlight soft skills as well as technical skills.

Even if you are in the midst of a job search, remember that it isn’t too late to continue honing your skills. Look up some freelance gigs, offer your services to friends and family members, sign up for a free online course in development. All of these things will provide you with something new to add to your resume.

Java Developer Resume Sample (Word version)

Download resume example (.docx)

Java Developer Resume Example (text version)

Final Thoughts: Don’t Forget Power Words

Power words are similar to keywords. The difference is that you use them to evoke a confident response in the person reading your resume. These words paint you in a positive light but remain relevant to the position. For a Java developer resume, consider adding words such as developed, tested, designed, modified, led, and proposed.