Java has become a ubiquitous programming language since its creation in 1995. As a Java developer, you can work almost anywhere software is created. That’s great news. Use this Java developer resume example and writing guide to help you get your job hunt running smoothly.
To cut through the clutter, you need a resume that stands out from the rest. You have the skills and experience, but so do many other talented candidates. How do you rise above the rest? You are unique and your java developer resume should be too.
That’s where expert guidance, resume examples, and tools can help. Let us help you gain the attention of software recruiters with a Java developer resume that confidently shows off your talents.
This resume guide, along with the corresponding resume example will cover the following topics:
- What does a Java developer do?
- How to write a Java developer resume (tips and tricks)
- The best format for a Java developer resume
- Expert advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
- Professional resume layout and design hints.
What does a Java developer do?
Java developers, sometimes called Java engineers, create software and applications using the Java programming language. They are responsible for the entire software development lifecycle: from requirement analysis to deployment. They might also be charged with follow-up debugging and maintenance and updates.
In more detail, the role of a Java developer is to design and implement Java applications, problem solve when issues arise, and schedule maintenance and upgrades to the software. They communicate closely with other departments to ensure applications fill the needs of employees. Java developers may also create web applications for customer use.
Market share
Of the websites with known server-side programming languages, Java holds 4.1 percent of the market, according to W3Techs.
Java developer job market and salary
As a Java developer, you’re in luck! In fact, your skills are in high demand and you should have no problem finding a new job in 2022. Java, Javascript, and SQL are the three most sought-after software specialists, according to the Technical Skills and Trends Report 2022. The overall market for software developers is expected to leap 22% by 2030, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts.
Entry-level Java developers can expect to earn about $80,000 to start, while experienced engineers command more than $116,000, Payscale reports. Income also depends on where the job is located and your education and certification level.
How to write a Java developer resume
Before you begin a project, you need to map it. The same is true of your Java developer resume. The sections you need to include in your CV are
- The resume header
- The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
- The employment history section
- The resume skills section
- The education section
Aside from this general overview, you also need to keep in mind that you are not writing one generic resume for all applications. Each application must be personalized to address the needs of each prospective employer and to adapt its tone to accommodate the company culture.
These tweaks will also help you get past the Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
Target the ATS
Most human resources departments use ATS software because it makes their jobs easier by scanning, sorting, and ranking applications. Algorithms based partly on keywords and phrases from the job listing will decide whether your resume gets into the hands of a person.
You know how algorithms work more than most. In the same way, adjust your Java developer resume to make the most of your knowledge. Add appropriate keywords and phrases and use standard formatting and fonts to rank higher with the ATS and give yourself the best shot at getting an interview.
Choosing the best resume format for a Java developer
The goal of your Java developer resume is to entice a recruiter to offer you an interview. The best way to do that is a recruiter-friendly resume format. We recommend reverse chronological order for two key reasons:
- ATS software is designed in this format, so you will have less retrofitting to complete after you upload your document
- It highlights the information recruiters seek first: your contact data and your most recent position.
However, if you have vast technical skills, you may consider a functional format, which focuses attention on your expertise, or a hybrid format, which blends the two. Hybrids are also useful if you are a career-changer, new to the job market, or a seasoned professional.
Resume header
The header contains your name, email address, and a good contact phone number. You may also include your current title or the title of the job you aspire to. Highlighting that information is its main purpose, but it also serves as the main design element of your Java developer resume.
Choose a graphic header that allows for easy reading of your contact information. Maintain a tone and style consistent with your professional personality and that of the companies you want to impress.
Resume summary example
Just as the header is your main design opportunity, the summary of your Java developer resume is your main chance to tell your career story in full sentences – three or four of them at most. Using strong descriptive language, introduce yourself and your career. Then, give an example of your greatest achievement.
This may not be the first section a recruiter peruses, but you can be sure that if you hit the right notes in your other sections, they will want to know more. A sentence addressing why you are applying for the particular job will go a long way. It shows you are not applying scattershot to every job and that you are willing to make the extra effort to address a company individually.
If you’re having trouble finding inspiration for your summary (since it’s the most free-form writing section on your resume), you can find additional writing material in our related IT resume sample category. We offer a web developer resume example, a software developer resume sample, a software engineer resume example, a computer science resume sample, and a senior software engineer resume example.
Senior Java Developer, highly skilled in the design of Java applications across all layers, including front-end, integration, and application. Adept in web application security and the optimization and refactoring of existing code for improved performance.
Employment history sample: code your career
Unless you’ve chosen a functional resume format, the employment history section will consume the largest portion of your Java developer resume. Within, you convince your prospective employer that not only can you do the job, but you have done it and done it well.
How do you accomplish this? By focusing each bulleted item on a success. Recruiters want to know what you will bring to the table as a developer. Have you solved thorny problems? Designed efficient applications on time and within budget? Acted as a liaison with the department that uses the application? Successfully beta-tested and implemented proprietary software?
Describe in detail your projects and accomplishments. Create a story of learning and success that shows you have a growth mindset and will add value to any IT department.
Senior Java Developer, Lohsted San Francisco
Apr 2017 - Present
- Work to build the solutions that improve customer experiences with the implementation of high-level design.
- Responsible for designing and developing web applications, as well as strategic road maps documenting and presenting API specifications.
- Effectively lead my team for end-to-end solutions.
- Perform coding, testing, and delivery of high-quality deliverables.
- Implement new technologies, while articulating the specified solutions utilized to the customer.
- Continually work to address complex requirements that accomplish business goals.
- Work to ensure that solutions are well designed with easy integration and testing built-in from the start.
Java Developer, SQA Technology Los Angeles
Jul 2013 - Mar 2017
- Worked to understand the core business processes and business requirements of clients prior to the implementation of design solutions.
- Developed detailed software code while ensuring that their configurations adhered to security and performance standards.
- Evaluated new technologies for pros and cons in relation to the program/eco-system and the impacts on process and risk.
- Worked collaboratively within a team to support the resolution of production issues and problems.
Powerful action words
These are just a few of the verbs to consider when you write your bullet items:
- Automated
- Re-engineered
- Launched
- Migrated
- Constructed
- Boosted
- Deciphered
- Safeguarded
- Fine-tuned
- Assembled
Java developer CV skills example: scope of knowledge
This at-a-glance section illustrates the highest level skills you have that your prospective employer desires. A recruiter’s eyes may jump to this part of your Java developer resume before looking anywhere else. Show you understand what they want by tailoring your skills to the job listing.
Of course, your technical skills need to be front and center. But don’t neglect your soft skills, that is, the personal qualities that make you a valued team member. These include problem solving, communication, reliability, and collaboration.
Choose 4-7 skills to highlight. Many resumes also include the level of expertise – a good choice for you if your expert technical knowledge fits the job description. But avoid exaggeration - give yourself an honest evaluation. Most importantly, unless you are applying for an entry-level position, only list skills if you are proficient or expert.
- Relational Database Development
- JavaScript
- SQL
- Knowledge of Restful APIs and API Gateways
- Kafka
- Complex Problem Solving
Resume education example
The education section of your Java developer resume is a listing of your degrees or diplomas. Most Java developers will have earned a bachelor’s degree, but this is not necessarily the case. Some Java developers might also have a master’s degree. If you have completed graduate-level education, you can leave your high school diploma off of your resume.
Only list your GPA if you are recently out of school and have a GPA of 3.0 or above.
As this is a technical position, it’s very important to include any certifications you have earned, such as Java Cloud certification or other technical training programs. If you have earned many certificates or completed relevant training courses, consider adding a separate certification section to highlight your technical education.
Master of Science in Computer Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
Sep 2009 - May 2013
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, California State University, Los Angeles
Sep 2005 - Jun 2009
Resume layout and design
As a back-end developer, you may not be overly concerned with the appearance of the software front-end. The appearance of your Java developer resume, however, could be the deciding factor in whether or not you get the interview. Professional, neat, but eye-catching design is imperative.
We’ve already discussed your header. Make sure the rest of your resume blends stylistically. You can choose from one of our expertly-designed and customizable resume templates to guide you (and eliminate the tedious chore of formatting).
To ensure recruiters can scan your resume quickly, use stand-out headings that draw the eye.. Choose an easy-to-read font and create white space by varying your line lengths and using a ragged right type style.
Take advantage of available tools
Proofreading your resume is a must. Getting a second set of eyes on it helps, too. But you can also avail yourself of spellcheck and grammar check applications to ensure your text is error-free.
After all your hard work, it would be a shame to lose out because of a typo or grammatical error.
Key takeaways for a Java developer resume
- Java developers are in high demand, so pick carefully and align your resume to the jobs of your choice
- Use your summary to highlight your greatest achievement and explain why you want the job
- Choose your skills carefully to help increase your rank with the ATS and to match with your prospective employer’s needs
- Get your job hunt going faster by taking advantage of our templates and resume builder tool.
