Technical Skills

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Technical Skills

Technical skills are the specific abilities and knowledge needed to perform tasks in a particular job or field. They range from proficiency with software and programming languages to operating specialized machinery or applying industry-specific standards (for example, GAAP in accounting or PLC programming in manufacturing). Employers often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, so clear, job-relevant technical skill listings are essential to pass automated filters and to demonstrate competence to hiring managers.

Key takeaways

  • Focus on technical skills that are directly relevant to the role you’re applying for.
  • Combine hard technical skills (programming, software, certifications) with examples that quantify impact.
  • List skills clearly on your resume and weave them into your experience descriptions to show practical use.

What employers look for

Employers want evidence that you can handle the technical demands of the job immediately or with minimal ramp-up. Common expectations include:
* Expertise with role-specific tools and platforms (e.g., Python, Tableau, SAP, QuickBooks).
* Knowledge of industry standards and methodologies (e.g., GAAP, Agile, Lean).
* Demonstrated experience solving real problems using those skills (quantified outcomes preferred).
* A mix of core and complementary technical skills—primary proficiencies first, followed by ancillary tools.

How to list technical skills on a resume

  1. Create a dedicated “Technical Skills” or “Technical Proficiencies” section.
  2. Order skills by relevance to the job posting—most critical first.
  3. Use short phrases or keywords (e.g., “Python,” “Salesforce,” “Financial Modeling”).
  4. Quantify experience where possible (e.g., “3 years Python; built ETL pipelines for 50+ TB of data”).
  5. Reinforce skills in your professional experience with concrete achievements (e.g., “Reduced report generation time by 40% using Tableau automation”).

Tip: Tailor your skills list for each application to match the employer’s language and the ATS keywords in the job description.

Examples of technical skills by field

  • Software & Data
  • Programming: Python, Java, JavaScript, R
  • Data tools: SQL, Tableau, Power BI, Hadoop, Spark
  • DevOps: Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD tools
  • Finance & Accounting
  • Financial modeling, forecasting, Excel (advanced), QuickBooks, ERP systems (SAP, Oracle)
  • Regulatory standards: GAAP, IFRS
  • IT & Cybersecurity
  • Network administration, AWS/Azure/GCP, firewalls, vulnerability assessment
  • Marketing & Design
  • SEO, Google Analytics, Adobe Creative Suite, CRM platforms (HubSpot, Salesforce)
  • Engineering & Manufacturing
  • CAD software, PLC programming, CNC operation, Six Sigma methodologies
  • Project Management & Productivity
  • Agile/Scrum, MS Project, Jira, Asana, Lean methodologies

How to improve your technical skills

  1. Define career goals and identify the exact skills employers require for that role.
  2. Research job postings and talk to professionals in the field to map needed proficiencies.
  3. Create a learning plan that blends formal education, certifications, and hands-on practice.
  4. Build projects, contribute to open-source or volunteer work, and document outcomes.
  5. Seek on-the-job opportunities, internships, or cross-functional projects to gain applied experience.
  6. Track progress with measurable milestones (completed courses, certifications, projects shipped).

Frequently asked questions

Q: How much work experience should I list on my resume?
A: Focus on the most relevant 10–15 years of experience, highlighting roles and skills that align with the job you’re applying for.

Q: What is a professional affiliation and should I include one?
A: Professional affiliations are memberships in industry organizations (e.g., engineering societies, accounting associations). They demonstrate engagement and ongoing professional development; include them if relevant.

Q: Are soft skills technical skills?
A: No. Soft skills (communication, teamwork, adaptability) complement technical skills but are distinct. Both matter—technical skills show capability, and soft skills show you can collaborate and apply those capabilities effectively.

Bottom line

Technical skills are measurable abilities that enable you to perform specific job functions and are critical to career advancement. Keep your skills up to date, tailor what you list to each job, and provide concrete examples of how you used those skills to produce measurable results.