When you create a computer science CV, you need to take care with detail and precision, just as you would in your computer scientist role. There is a need for qualified and experienced people throughout every industry in the UK.
At Resume.io, we have created a resource for job seekers to utilise as they venture into the working world or their new role. We provide CV guides and dozens of CV examples for you to use to help ensure employers take notice of you and all your incredible skills.
In this CV guide, together with our adaptable computer science CV example, we will cover these topics:
- The role of a computer scientist
- How to write a computer scientist CV (with some handy tips and tricks!)
- The best format to use for your computer scientist CV
- How to make the most of each section of your CV
- Advice on the layout and design of your computer science CV
What does a computer scientist do?
The role of a computer scientist is wide-ranging. They are involved in the design and build of computer systems and the creation of specific programs. There is a wide range of industries a computer scientist can work in, including social media companies, the government, and technology companies.
How much does a computer scientist earn?
Computer scientists can earn a lot of money. The average salary for a computer scientist in the UK is £52,363 per annum. It will vary depending on the location you are working in and the industry.
How to write a computer science CV
You should follow a set structure when creating your computer science CV. In doing this, you will ensure you cover all the essential aspects of your career history to date. The following elements should be included on your computer science CV:
- CV header
- CV summary
- Employment History
- Skills
- Education
You should consider the person who is likely to be reading your computer science CV and ensure it is tailored to them.
These days we have a lot of resources we can use to find out everything we need to know about a company and the interviewers. For example, the company website will give you information about their values and you can use LinkedIn to find out more about the interviewer.
Just as you would adhere to a formula when creating a new computer system, you should take the same approach when writing your computer science CV. You may wish to adopt the following plan when creating your CV:
- Tailor your CV to suit the employer and make tweaks when applying for each new job.
- Ensure you use a CV template and design that is professional. Do not try to impress the employer by adding any gimmicks. They are just looking for it to be clear and concise.
- Add keywords to your computer scientist CV to have a better chance of passing through an ATS.
- Check out our CV samples for guidance and inspiration.
Choosing the best CV format for a computer scientist
Reverse chronological is the best format for a computer scientist CV. This is the format where the employment history is the most prominent. The only exception to this format would be for candidates with little to no experience. In this case, you may want to consider a functional CV format or a combination CV.
CV summary example: the start of the story
The CV summary is also known as the profile, and you can just think of this as a brief synopsis. It should consist of just two or three strong statements that summarise your main expertise and skills to date. You should lead with action verbs in your statements. For instance, enhanced, led, or managed, as opposed to saying ‘I’ did this or that.
You can find some inspiration for your summary if you need this by looking at our CV examples.
Computer scientist with five years of experience in tech sector. Two years spent managing research teams and managing network strategy with key stakeholders. Ability to understand complex data storage issues. Highly skilled at improving or designing new LAN, SAN and VoIP networks.
Employment history sample: your journey
Your current or most recent employment would usually go first in this section, and bullet points describing your duties will be sufficient. If you can quantify any of your achievements in the role, this will make it more enticing to the hiring manager. Use dynamic action verbs in this section too. Check out the employment history section from our adaptable CV sample below.
Computer Scientist Team Lead at The Computing Group, Edinburgh
January 2022 - Present
- Responsible for system maintenance and user application.
- Managing a team of 5, ensuring that goals are achieved, both individually and respective of company goals.
- Working to meet tight deadlines and ensuring work is delegated to the appropriate team member.
- Recruitment and training of new team members.
Computer Scientist at Johnson Computing, Edinburgh
February 2017 - January 2022
- Provided support to clients and internal staff members.
- Diagnosed risks in network security and liaised with relevant parties for maintenance and improvement.
- Built and maintained positive client relationships on an ongoing basis.
Computer scientist CV education example
Your education section should simply list your qualifications and any other relevant certificates you possess. You should start with the most recent employment to the earliest. You can use this copywriter CV example and guide to determine how to write your education section.
BSc Computer Science at University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh
September 2013 - June 2016
CV skills example: what makes you shine
As a computer scientist, you will need to have a range of hard skills, but your skills section should also contain soft skills. These may include communication, the ability to work as a team, and problem-solving skills. What are you good at that will help you add value to a company? Use the CV sample below for more ideas of skills.
- LAN, SAN, VoIP Network Administration
- Network Design and Analysis
- Improving Data Storage
- Influencing Stakeholders
- Team and Project Management
- Creative Problem Solving
CV layout and design: make the right impression
When it comes to the layout and design of your CV, the key is to keep it simple. The hiring manager expects your CV to be easy to read and without complexity. The first glance should be enough to entice the hiring manager to want to read the content.
You can find a wide range of CV templates to give you some ideas for the layout and design of your CV. Use our CV examples to help you create a CV that will encourage the hiring manager to proceed to the interview.
Key takeaways for a computer science CV
- As a computer scientist, you can specialise in a range of areas.
- A great computer science CV sample should be tailored to suit the employer.
- Use relevant keywords throughout your computer scientist CV to help get through an ATS.
- Use our online CV maker and CV samples to make the job much easier!