Technical skills are specialized skills that reflect one's proficiency in a particular field or industry, and these skills can be developed either by learning, training, or by gaining practical experience in that specific area. These skills are commonly referred to as "hard skills".
In addition to soft skills (interpersonal skills), analytical skills, and creative skills, technical skills play a vital role in highlighting your resume, among others. It is said that in tech, it's not just what you know, but how well you can apply it that counts.
So your technical skills demonstrate your practical knowledge and the ability to manage job-related tasks effectively.
What Are Good Technical Skills for a Resume?
A resume without any mention of technical skills is less effective. While mentioning technical skills is considered enough, mentioning the right and relevant skills is more important.
Good technical skills add more value to the resume. There are many technical skills, and every industry has its own demands for technical skills. Below are some examples of growing technical skills in the current market.
- Cybersecurity: Ethical Hacking, Intrusion Detection Systems, Frameworks
- Programming languages: C++, Python, Java, PHP
- UI/UX design: Figma, Adobe XD, Interaction Design, Usability Testing, Visual Design
- Database Management: MySQL, Oracle, Postgres, MongoDB, SQL
- Machine learning: LLMs, Algorithms, Data Visualization, Deep Learning
- DevOps: Jenkins, Kubernetes, Terraform, Cloud platforms like AWS, automation
- Social media marketing: Content creation, Graphic design
- Accounting: Bookkeeping, System Analysis
- Business and Data Analysis: Power BI, Excel
- Software testing: Test Cases, Testrail, Selenium, QTP, Jira, Jmeter, Apache Benchmark
The section below covers the technical skills that are required for a specific job or industry. You can refer to the below section for a deep understanding of the technical skills that are necessary for your desired job, by job title.
Technical Skills in a Resume for Freshers
For a fresher, the skills to be updated in a resume depend on his or her academic background and the career or job that he or she wants to pursue.
The mentioned skills and projects should align with their academic wins and the specific job as well. An effective resume showcasing the skills in demand shows that the candidate is interested and prepared for the job.
Technical Skills for Mechanical Engineers
Since mechanical engineers deal with designing, constructing, and operating machines, they must have profound knowledge of mathematics and physics. They should be aware of engineering principles. Some of the technical skills that a mechanical engineer should possess are:
- Computer-Aided Design: Knowledge of CAD allows engineers to create 2D and 3D images of machines and helps in advanced visualization. Using tools like AutoCAD and CATIA is advised to be learned.
- Fine Element Analysis: Being able to use the FEA software to analyze the structure and behavior of designs is also required. Using tools like ANSYS and Abaqus is advised to be learned.
- Programming and Simulation Tools: Simulation tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and Python (for scripting and automation) are a few technical skills required for mechanical engineers.
- Materials knowledge: Having a grasp on which material to use for a specific design is also considered one of the important skills of a mechanical engineer.
- Manufacturing processes: These deal with the core of mechanics. Mechanical engineers should have an idea about welding, casting, and other similar work.
Technical Skills for Civil Engineers
Since civil engineers deal with designing and construction projects, they have a few common technical skills as mechanical engineers. Anyway, some of the skills that might help a civil engineer in his or her career are:
- Mathematics and Physics: It is needed for a civil engineer to have a strong foundation in principles and calculations to effectively solve problems that will allow for better design and decision-making on construction locations.
- Computer-aided designs: Similar to mechanical engineers, civil engineers will also have to learn about tools like AutoCAD and Revit to create designs. Acquaintance with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is also an important skill for a civil engineer.
- Structural Analysis and Design: Familiarity with structural analysis is essential to ensuring the safety of buildings.
- Building Information Modeling (BIM), Geotechnical Engineering Software, and Construction Management Software are also essential skills for a civil engineer.
Technical Skills in the Resume for Electrical Engineers
Electrical engineers must be proficient in physics, as the major role of electrical engineers is to apply the laws and principles of various branches of physics. They deal with devices that run on electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Some of the major skills to be included on an electrical engineer's resume are:
- Circuit design and analysis: Expertise in designing and analyzing electric circuits is expected to develop efficient circuits.
- Embedded systems: Experience in embedded systems, knowledge of programming, and working with microcontrollers like the Raspberry Pi are important skills as well.
- MATLAB: This skill helps in modeling and simulating. This also helps to solve engineering problems.
- Simulation software: Using software like SPICE that helps verify the designs is advised to be developed.
- Power systems, analog and digital electronics, PCB design, and signal processingare also essential technical skills for an electrical engineer.
Technical Skills in a Resume for Computer Science
With its increasing demand in the job market, computer science has evolved to be one of the necessary skills for a job seeker, irrespective of his or her academic background. To satisfy the core necessities and fulfill any computer-related jobs, one must build up and point out these skills in one's resume:
- Programming languages: Experience in executing programming languages like C++, Java, and Swift is more than necessary for a computer science engineer. Almost every field has a prerequisite for programming languages.
- Web development: Working with front-end and back-end development should be an experience to highlight in the resume.
- Cybersecurity: Leveling up skills in cybersecurity domains like security operations and risk management would prove useful for getting shortlisted.
- Cloud computing: Experience with various cloud platforms like AWS and GCP is also considered a high-level skill, as every business has its storage in the cloud these days.
- Machine learning/AI: Since AI has started ruling the tech world, there is a strong requirement for machine learning skills. Machine algorithms, deep learning techniques, and natural language processing play a crucial role, which, if mentioned in your resume, may set you apart.
- Data analysis: Knowledge of analytical tools like SQL or R is essential for decision-making scenarios.
- Software development: It is a widely sought-after skill among computer scientists since it deals with testing, troubleshooting, and creating applications.
Technical Skills by Job Title
Let us try to focus on the technical skills based on job titles:
Software Engineer Technical Skills
- Mastery of programming languages like C++, Java, and Python is mandatory.
- Grasp on data science skills and usage of tools like TensoFlow, R, and Excel.
- In-depth understanding of data structures and algorithms.
- Being professionally certified in basic software domains.
- Awareness of version control platforms like github and gitcode.
- Command of software testing skills and problem-solving abilities.
Data Analyst Skills
Data analysts collect, process, and analyze the data to help companies make the right decisions and increase their productivity.
- Proficiency in programming languages. As mentioned earlier, experience in programming languages is a must for any computer scientist.
- Skills in using data visualization tools like Power BI, Tableau, and Excel.
- Talent in data wrangling. Cleaning the data before analysis and converting the raw data into useful data for analysis is data wrangling.
- Expertise in SQL for the management of large data.
Web Designer Skills
Web designers design and build websites. They should have insights on the colors, layouts, and organization of the content on the website.
- HTML, CSS, and Javascript knowledge is fundamental for every web designer.
- Being well-versed in UI/UX designs to build interactive and impressive websites and enhance the user experience.
- Usage of graphic design tools like Adobe Photoshop.
- Demonstration of the project on your own website.
- Frontend technologies like ReactJs, NextJS etc.
System Administrator Skills
The system administrator takes on the responsibility of managing the networks of the organization and also rectifies any connection issues in the computer systems of the company.
- Experience in managing various servers, including Windows, Unix, and Linux.
- Cloud computing competency.
- Knowledge of network protocols.
- Profound understanding and application ability of scripting languages like PowerShell and Bash.
Cybersecurity Analyst Skills
- Experience with intrusion detection systems (NIDS, HIDS)
- Understanding of security vulnerabilities and ideas on mitigating them.
- Experience with cybersecurity frameworks (NIST, CIS, SOC2)
- Familiarity with SIEM tools like Splunk and IBM QRadar, IDS tools like Snort, and vulnerability tools like Nessus, firewalls, forensic tools, and incident response tools like TheHive.
UX/UI Designer Skills
- Skills in using design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Sketch, and Figma.
- Interaction design abilities.
- Wireframing and prototyping skills.
- Familiarity with front-end development.
- Using analytical tools to record performance.
Database Administrator Skills
- Expertise in understanding SQL and database management systems like Oracle, MySQL, and NoSQL.
- Acknowledgment of data security principles.
- Optimization and tuning, including query optimization, indexing, and database profiling.
- Grasp in recovery and backup techniques.
IT Project Manager Skills
An IT project manager is responsible for taking care of the company's projects and ensuring they are completed within time and budget.
- Project management skills (using Asana, JIRA, and Microsoft Project)
- Knowledge of various software domains like cybersecurity, databases, networks, etc.
- Proficiency in software tools like ERP and CRM.
- Understanding of quality assurance and ISO standards.
Cloud Engineer Skills
- Proficiency in working with cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. There are many other cloud platforms, too.
- Experience with DevOps tools for task automation and configuration supervision. (Ansible, Puppet).
- API management for uninterrupted communication between different software.
- Awareness of infrastructure and the design of systems and signals.
Technical Skills for Customer Service Resume
- Social media management skills
- Familiarity with helpdesk support tools.
- Experience in the usage of CRM software to provide feedback on customer behavior.
- Data entry talent for organizing and analyzing the data.
- Demonstration of the payment processing system.
Network Engineer Technical Skills for Resume
- Proficiency in scripting languages like Python for automation.
- Knowledge of network protocols.
- Thorough understanding of creating and executing LAN, WLAN, WAN, and MAN architectures.
- Skills in configuring and installing switches and networks.
Technical Skills for an Accountant Resume
An accountant deals with the financial operations of a company.
- Specialization in payroll management systems.
- Expertise in accounting tools like Xero or Oracle Financials.
- Skills in management and analysis of budgets and other financial areas.
- Knowledge of ERP systems.
Nursing Skills
Nursing skills are very important when it comes to patients's welfare. Certain procedures and ethics must be followed by nurses to ensure proper care is provided to the patient.
- Clinical skills regarding knowledge of medications and surgical procedures are essential.
- Communication skills so that patients are given courage and assurance.
- Medication administration to decide upon side effects in the body.
- Critical thinking to analyze the disease and give proper advice.
Technical Skills for Pharmacist Resume
A pharmacist is qualified enough to prepare and supply medications based on a prescription.
- Familiarity with pharmacy software like PinoeerRx and McKesson for handling prescriptions and managing the inventory.
- Proficiency in medication details for ensuring the correct dosage and the correct medicine for the problem.
- Knowledge of pharmaceutical guidelines.
Sales Associate Technical Skills
- Expertise in being able to deliver the details of the product clearly and clarify the doubts of the customer about the product.
- Marketing skills.
- Interaction abilities and proficiency in using software like HubSpot for tracking the status of customer feedback.
Technical Skills for HR Resume
Experience in the following skills must be considered for a human resource.
- Interviewing capability.
- Skills in ATS management for effective tracking of the application process.
- Experience in the usage of communication tools like MS Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet.
- Knowledge of various recruitment platforms like LinkedIn, Naukri, and Indeed.
- Proficiency in the Learning Management System (OnDemand, Skillsoft).
Technical Skills by Industry
The above section discussed the technical skills according to the job title. Now let us try to explore technical skills based on the corresponding industry.
Management
The management industry requires technical skills based on its fields, like business management, project management, tech management, production management, etc. Some vital technical skills needed in the management industry are:
- Data: Skills in data gathering, organizing, analyzing, and visualizing.
- IT: Competency in computer skills, usage of tools like Excel, and effective use of communication tools like email.
- Project: Understanding the objectives of the project, gathering resources, risk management, and ensuring effective completion of the project.
- Technical writing and documentation: Ability to create highly formatted and structured content with easy comprehensibility and easy accessibility to the desired audience.
Information technology (IT)
- Programming languages (C++, Python, Java).
- Cybersecurity domains.
- Databases (SQL, Oracle)
- Software development
- Data science and machine learning skills
Finance
- Financial modeling and analysis tools like Tableau.
- Financial reporting skills to provide investors and stakeholders with accurate financial information.
- Knowledge of electronic trading and algorithmic trading systems.
- Risk management and investment analysis skills.
Marketing and Advertising
- Digital media, design, and content creation.
- Search engine optimization and search engine marketing.
- Data interpretation and graphic design skills.
- Content management.
- Email marketing and Pay-per-click (PPC) advertisements.
Education
- Usage of e-learning platforms.
- Learning management systems like Google Classroom.
- Educational research tools and survey tools like SPSS and Google Forms.
- Data analysis and reporting skills.
Manufacturing
- Computer-aided designs and quality management systems.
- PLC Programming and Robotics.
- Welding and fabrication.
- Knowledge of material science.
Retail
- Familiarity with the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.
- Product knowledge and retail management software like ERP.
- E-commerce platforms and sales analytics.
- Point of Sale systems.
Energy and sustainability
- Adaptive power system.
- Sustainability focuses on minimizing carbon footprints.
- Operational efficiency.
- Sustainable design principles.
Media and entertainment
- Graphic designing.
- Virtual reality and Augmented reality (VR and AR).
- UI/UX design.
- Writing and storytelling skills.
- Software used for editing and visualizing effects.
Accounting
- Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
- Budget management and analysis.
- Data management for tracking financial information.
- Risk management and usage of accounting software.
Business & data analysis
- Data wrangling and cleaning.
- Analysis tools like R and visualization tools like Tableau.
- Application Programming interface management.
- Cloud computing skills.
Graphic Design
- Ideation techniques.
- UI/UX design.
- Typography skills.
- Software like Adobe Photoshop and InDesign.
Social media management and digital marketing
- A/B testing.
- Email marketing.
- SEO/SEM experience.
- Content creation and copywriting.
- Influencer marketing.
- Social media analytics.
Content Writing
- Search engine optimization.
- Research skills and usage of writing tools and software (Google Docs, MS Word)
- Proofreading skills.
- Data analysis and multimedia skills.
Banking
- Wealth and portfolio management.
- Data and investment analysis.
- Banking software and ATM networks.
- Financial software like Oracle Financial Services.
How to List Technical Skills on a Resume?
The skills that are to be demonstrated through your resume depend on the job requirements. So it is mandatory to go through the job description thoroughly and highlight the relevant skills.
The precise placement and format of the technical skills on the resume are significant. The use of keywords and a clear presentation might be a game-changer. It is important to verify that the mentioned technical skills align with the job description.
Technical skills can be added to the below sections on your resume -
- Professional Summary
- Skills
- Work Experience
Add Technical Skills to a Resume Professional Summary
A professional summary gives a brief outline of your qualifications and suitability for the job. It allows the recruiter to decide on your talent the very first time they review your resume.
The first impression is the best impression, they say. Then why compromise on the very first step of your hunt? This section explains you and nurtures you to strengthen your professional summary by adding technical skills.
Take a look at the following tips to write an attractive professional summary in your resume:
- Focus more on the job description and gain a clear understanding of the specific skills that are demanded by the job.
- Sift out the strongest skills that suit the job you are applying for.
- Begin with an introduction to your professional background, gradually incorporate the relevant technical skills, and showcase your achievements in the particular field.
- Use keywords and professional terms that are used in the job description, most often in your professional summary, as it helps your resume succeed in ATS and be recognized by the employer.
- Keep it short and simple. Add certification achievements in the specific area. And ensure your skills align with the emerging technologies to prove you are up-to-date.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
"We are seeking a skilled Python developer with expertise in AZURE Bot Services to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in developing and deploying bots using Azure, coupled with proficiency in Python programming. This role will involve designing, developing, and maintaining intelligent bot solutions to enhance our customer interactions and internal processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and deploy intelligent bots using Azure Bot Services and Python.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand business requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
- Implement conversational AI and natural language processing (NLP) capabilities to enhance bot functionality.
- Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback to ensure high-quality software deliverables.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
- Proven experience in Python development, with a strong portfolio of projects.
- Familiarity with Azure DevOps or other CI/CD tools for deployment and version control.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
- Knowledge of Azure Cognitive Services, particularly Language Understanding (LUIS) and OnA Maker."
Based on the above job description, an effective professional summary may look like this:
"Proficient Python developer with 6+ years of experience in designing, developing, and deploying intelligent bots using Azure Bot Services. Established expertise in the implementation of conversational AI and NLP techniques with a strong history of successful projects. Skilled in using CI/CD tools. A dedicated team worker and also a responsible independent worker with top-notch problem-solving skills. Experienced in troubleshooting, debugging, and optimizing bot performance and scalability."
List Technical Skills in a Resume Skills Section
Setting up a separate and dedicated section for technical skills in your resume plays a major role in highlighting job-specified skills and proving your worth to the employer.
Here are some tips for proper organization of skills in a dedicated section:
- Allot a separate section and name the title. For example, "Technical Skills".
- Categorize your skills such that similar skills are placed under one category to simplify the complexity. For instance,
- Programming languages: Python, Java
- Software: Adobe Photoshop, Excel, and SPSS
- Web designing: HTML, CSS, Javascript, React, and Angular.
- Give precedence to the most relevant skills based on the job description.
- Mention your level of competency in that particular skill, like proficient or basic.
- Clearly and neatly organize your points in bullets.
- Be concise and don't overwrite.
- Use keywords and technical terms to show your professionalism.
- Ensure that the skills highlighted align with the job requirements.
Add Technical Skills to a Resume Work Experience Section
Adding technical skills to a resume work experience section is to explain how you have utilized your skills in your previous jobs or at workplaces and made a considerable amount of contribution towards the success of the work.
- Highlight the number of projects you have worked on and briefly describe the success of the project and your contribution to it.
- Use bullet points to simplify testing your skills for an employer.
- Mention only relevant skills and integrate the skills into the job description.
- Highlight your achievements and recognitions regarding the area in your previous roles.
- Use action verbs like 'implemented', 'developed', 'debugged', and 'engineered'.
How to Improve Your Technical Skills?
There are various resources from which you can gain any kind of knowledge. This swift-paced technology has provided everyone with an equal opportunity to obtain information on any topic in seconds. So improving technical skills is not so tough to start unless you are determined enough.
- Online courses and certifications: There are e-platforms that provide you with free and paid courses on any topic, and you can also be officially certified in that skill after the completion of your course. Including certifications from recognized platforms increases the chances of getting shortlisted.
- Practice makes man perfect. Keep practicing the skills regularly so that you will excel in a particular skill.
- Consistency is the key. Be consistent in your practice and keep learning from your mistakes.
- Find a dedicated mentor. You can also approach professionals to guide you through mastering the skills. Ask for feedback on your performances.
- Attend online tests to improve your skills. You can also participate actively in online competitions on Leetcode and similar platforms.
Key takeaways
Since you have come a long way in understanding the mechanisms of technical skills, you are ready to make an impressive resume. But don't forget to ensure these points before creating a resume:
- Technical skills demonstrate practical knowledge and are essential for job success.
- The skills you are going to highlight align with the job demands.
- Highlight technical skills in the professional summary, skills section, and work experience.
- Hard skills, along with soft skills, are demonstrated.
Posted by

Rohith, Co-Founder of ResumeUp.AI, with a decade of experience in the software industry and having conducted over 500+ interviews as a hiring manager, shares his personal experiences, success stories, and tips to help job seekers optimize their resumes and land their dream job.
View ProfileFrequently asked questions
How do you say 'tech-savvy' on a resume?
Simply using the term 'tech-savvy' may not look appropriate on a resume since the word does not convey the information properly and has a broader meaning outside of technology. It is not confined to technology alone. So instead of using the word, you can use more professional terms. Here are the resume synonyms for this word:
- Proficient in
- Expertise in
- Tech-oriented
- Advanced knowledge of
- Technical proficiency
- Well-versed in
- Adept at
What technical skills should I put on my resume?
The skills that you have mentioned in the resume must be as per the demands of the job. Review the job description thoroughly and mention only relevant skills. Consider the following job description: Seeking an enthusiast who is proficient in SEO and SEM techniques and proficient in data analytics tools for content creation and marketing. Advanced knowledge of social media management is appreciated. For the job description above, you can include technical skills as follows: Highly experienced in digital marketing, with profound knowledge of optimization techniques like SEM and SEO. Skilled in the efficient use of analytical tools like Google Analytics and competent in content management, market research, and social media.
How many technical skills should I list?
Avoid overlisting skills. Highlight only a few relevant skills. The appropriate and acceptable number would be 5-8. Ensure the skills match the job demands.
What if I am learning a new skill and am not yet proficient? Should I include it on my resume?
Yes, you can, if you wish to. But it is advised to clearly add 'beginner' or mention 'in progress' or 'currently learning' after your skill. This gives a clear idea of your competency and the level of questions to be asked in the interview regarding the specific topic.
Do I need to attach a cover letter to my resume even if I list down my technical skills in the resume?
Yes, you still need a cover letter because, though the resume informs the employer about your skills, adding a cover letter would help the employer understand more about your efforts and interest in the job. You can personalize your introduction through a cover letter.