Technical Skills for Resume

150+ technical skills for resume — organized by industry, role, and proficiency level. With how to list them, ATS tips, and evidence examples for IT, engineering, data, healthcare, finance, and more.

150+ skills listed 12 industry categories Proficiency levels ATS guidance
Quick Answer

Technical skills for resume are specialized, job-related abilities that enable someone to perform specific tasks using professional methods, tools, systems, or processes. They span programming, engineering, data analysis, laboratory work, medical systems, financial modeling, and more — always depending on the target role. List exact tools, technologies, and methodologies from the job description, with proficiency context for complex skills.

What Are Technical Skills for a Resume?

Technical skills for resume are specialized capabilities that qualify someone to perform specific work tasks. They are distinct from soft skills (which describe how you work with others) and broader than simple computer literacy. Technical skills can involve tools, machines, software, processes, methods, or knowledge systems unique to a professional discipline.

A software developer's technical skills include Python, React, and Git. A mechanical engineer's technical skills include AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and FEA simulation. A nurse's technical skills include Epic EMR, medication administration, and ACLS. An accountant's technical skills include financial modeling, QuickBooks, and GAAP compliance. Each is specific to the role, measurable, and teachable.

Technical Skills vs Computer Skills vs Soft Skills

⚙️ Technical Skills

Specialized professional capabilities — often field-specific

  • AutoCAD / SolidWorks
  • SQL / Python / R
  • Financial modeling
  • Laboratory techniques
  • CNC machine operation
  • Medical coding (ICD-10)
  • Network administration
💻 Computer Skills

Workplace software and digital tool proficiency

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Google Workspace
  • Slack / Zoom / Teams
  • Asana / Jira / Trello
  • Salesforce / HubSpot
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • WordPress / CMS
🗣️ Soft Skills

Behavioral, interpersonal, and communication capabilities

  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Problem-solving
  • Teamwork
  • Adaptability
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Time management
Overlap is normal. SQL is both a technical skill and a computer skill. Python is both a programming language and a technical skill. A skill is "technical" when it requires specialized knowledge to perform — the category label matters less than listing the right skills for your target job.

150+ Technical Skills for Resume — by Industry

Browse the technical skills list organized by field. Select only the skills that match your genuine experience and target role.

💻 IT, Networking & Cybersecurity
Network administration System administration Active Directory Windows Server Linux / Ubuntu TCP/IP networking DNS / DHCP Firewall configuration VPN setup AWS / Azure / GCP VMware / Hyper-V IT help desk (Tier 2/3) SIEM tools (Splunk) Penetration testing Endpoint security NIST / ISO 27001 Incident response Vulnerability assessment Microsoft 365 admin
👨‍💻 Programming & Software Development
Python JavaScript / TypeScript Java C / C++ / C# Go / Rust SQL HTML / CSS React / Vue / Angular Node.js REST APIs / GraphQL Git / GitHub / GitLab Docker / Kubernetes CI/CD pipelines Unit testing / TDD Microservices System design AWS Lambda / Serverless Swift / Kotlin (mobile)
📊 Data, Analytics & Business Intelligence
SQL (advanced) Python (Pandas, NumPy) R (statistical computing) Excel (advanced — Pivot Tables, Power Query) Tableau Power BI Looker / Looker Studio BigQuery Snowflake dbt (data build tool) Statistical modeling A/B testing methodology Predictive analytics ETL pipeline design SPSS / SAS Data cleaning Cohort analysis Machine learning (scikit-learn, TensorFlow)
🔩 Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
AutoCAD SolidWorks CATIA ANSYS (FEA / CFD) MATLAB / Simulink Revit (BIM) Navisworks PLC programming (Siemens / Allen-Bradley) GD&T FMEA Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt) Lean manufacturing ISO 9001 / AS9100 Electrical circuit design Schematic reading Structural analysis Engineering documentation
🩺 Healthcare & Medical Technical Skills
Epic EMR (clinical) Cerner ICD-10 / CPT coding Medical billing systems Patient monitoring systems Medication administration Phlebotomy IV insertion / PICC line care CPR / BLS / ACLS / PALS Wound care / dressing changes Telemetry monitoring HIPAA compliance Clinical documentation Medical imaging systems (PACS) Lab information systems (LIS)
📒 Finance & Accounting Technical Skills
Financial modeling (DCF, LBO, M&A) Excel (advanced — VBA, Power Query) QuickBooks Online Xero SAP ERP Oracle Financials NetSuite GAAP / IFRS Revenue recognition (ASC 606) SOX compliance Variance analysis FP&A (budgeting, forecasting) Treasury management Tax preparation (federal, state) Audit procedures
📣 Marketing & Digital Analytics Technical Skills
Google Analytics 4 Google Tag Manager SEO technical auditing Google Ads / PPC management Meta Ads Manager Attribution modeling Marketing mix modeling (MMM) CRO (A/B testing) HubSpot / Marketo / Pardot Email deliverability / DMARC SEMrush / Ahrefs Data Studio / Looker Studio Customer journey mapping Marketing automation
🏭 Manufacturing, Quality & Operations
CNC machine operation CNC programming (G-code) Quality control (QC) Statistical process control (SPC) ISO 9001 / TS 16949 Six Sigma (DMAIC) Lean manufacturing / Kaizen 5S methodology Preventive maintenance (TPM) ERP systems (SAP PP) OSHA 30 (general industry) FMEA / PPAP / control plans Metrology / precision measurement GMP compliance
🔬 Science & Laboratory Technical Skills
PCR / qPCR ELISA Flow cytometry Mass spectrometry HPLC / chromatography Microscopy (light, electron) Cell culture Western blot Statistical analysis (R, SPSS) LIMS (lab information systems) GLP / GMP compliance Research data management Scientific documentation Sample preparation
🏗️ Construction & Skilled Trades Technical Skills
Blueprint / technical drawing reading Construction estimating AutoCAD / Revit (BIM) Surveying instruments Electrical wiring (NEC) HVAC systems Plumbing systems Welding (MIG / TIG / Stick) Forklift operation (OSHA certified) OSHA 10 / 30 certification Building codes (IBC, IRC) Construction site safety Material takeoffs Procore / PlanGrid

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Technical Skill Proficiency Levels

For complex technical skills — SQL, Python, AutoCAD, financial modeling — adding a proficiency level or context helps recruiters understand exactly what you can do. Here is how each level typically reads on a resume.

🟡 Beginner / Foundational
Understands core concepts and can perform basic tasks with guidance. Appropriate to list when the role welcomes learners or when you have demonstrable coursework or project experience. Add context: "Python (beginner — data cleaning scripts, coursework projects)."
🔵 Intermediate
Can independently perform routine tasks and troubleshoot common issues. This is the most common level for most job applications. Be specific about what "intermediate" means: "SQL (intermediate — SELECT, JOIN, subqueries, window functions, query optimization)."
🟣 Advanced
Handles complex work, optimizes processes, and solves non-routine problems independently. Back it with evidence: "Excel (advanced) — built automated monthly reporting model using VBA and Power Query, reducing close cycle from 4 hours to 30 minutes."
⚡ Expert / Lead
Can architect, administer, teach, or lead others. Usually supported by years of experience, certifications, or leadership. "Python (expert) — architected the data pipeline serving 50M+ daily events; mentored 4 junior data engineers." Use sparingly and only with strong evidence.

Technical Skills for Resume by Job Role

Here are the most important technical skills for the most common roles. Always cross-reference with the specific job description you are applying for.

Job RoleKey Technical Skills for Resume
Software DeveloperPython / JavaScript, React / Node.js, SQL, Git/GitHub, Docker, AWS, REST APIs, CI/CD, system design
Data AnalystSQL (advanced), Python (Pandas), Excel (advanced), Tableau / Power BI, BigQuery / Snowflake, statistical analysis, A/B testing
Cybersecurity AnalystSIEM (Splunk, QRadar), penetration testing, NIST / ISO 27001, firewall configuration, incident response, vulnerability assessment
Network AdministratorCisco IOS / CCNA, TCP/IP, DNS / DHCP, VPN, firewall management, Active Directory, network monitoring tools
Mechanical EngineerAutoCAD, SolidWorks / CATIA, ANSYS (FEA), GD&T, FMEA, engineering documentation, MATLAB
AccountantExcel (advanced — VBA, Power Query), QuickBooks / Xero, SAP / NetSuite, GAAP / IFRS, financial modeling, audit procedures
Data ScientistPython (scikit-learn, TensorFlow), SQL, R, statistical modeling, machine learning, feature engineering, Jupyter, cloud ML platforms
UX/UI DesignerFigma, Adobe XD, prototyping, wireframing, usability testing, design systems, WCAG accessibility, user research methods
Project ManagerJira / MS Project / Primavera P6, Agile / Scrum / PRINCE2, risk management, earned value management, resource planning
Healthcare AdministratorEpic / Cerner (admin), ICD-10 / CPT coding, medical billing software, HIPAA compliance, healthcare analytics, scheduling systems
Laboratory TechnicianPCR / qPCR, HPLC, ELISA, cell culture, LIMS, GLP / GMP compliance, microscopy, sample preparation
Manufacturing TechnicianCNC operation, SPC, ISO 9001, Lean / Six Sigma, FMEA, preventive maintenance, ERP (SAP PP), precision measurement

How to List Technical Skills on a Resume

Read the job description and extract every named skill

Every tool, technology, methodology, or system mentioned in the posting is a potential keyword. Required skills go first; preferred skills are also worth including if you have them.

Name exact tools and methodologies — never categories

"SQL" not "databases." "AutoCAD" not "CAD software." "GAAP" not "accounting standards." Specificity is what ATS systems scan for and what hiring managers trust.

Add proficiency context for complex skills

"Python (intermediate — data cleaning, automation, pandas/NumPy)" tells a recruiter far more than "Python" alone. For simple tools, the name alone is sufficient.

Use a clear, standard section heading

"Technical Skills," "Core Technical Competencies," or "Technologies" — all ATS-friendly. Avoid creative headings like "My Tech Stack." For most resumes, separate hard/technical skills from soft skills.

Back key technical skills with evidence in your bullets

Your skills section labels your capabilities. Your experience bullets prove them. "Financial modeling" in skills becomes credible as: "Built DCF and LBO models to evaluate 6 acquisition targets, supporting a £40M investment committee decision."

Technical Skills — Skill + Evidence Examples

SQL
❌ Too vague
Database skills
✅ Specific + evidence
"SQL (advanced) — wrote complex queries using window functions and CTEs to analyze 50M+ monthly transaction records; reduced reporting query runtime from 4 minutes to 8 seconds through index optimization"
Python
❌ No context
Programming skills / Python
✅ Use case + outcome
"Python (Pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib) — automated monthly data cleaning and transformation pipeline, saving 12 hours of manual analyst work per reporting cycle"
AutoCAD / SolidWorks
❌ Generic
CAD software
✅ Specific + scope
"AutoCAD and SolidWorks — produced 200+ detailed 2D and 3D drawings for precision machined components; maintained zero tolerance non-conformances over a 3-year production run"
Financial Modeling
❌ No evidence
Financial skills / Excel
✅ Context + outcome
"Financial modeling (DCF, LBO) — built acquisition models for 8 target companies; analysis informed a £120M deal completed at 14% below initial offer price"
Six Sigma / Lean
❌ Claim only
Process improvement skills
✅ Certification + impact
"Six Sigma Black Belt (certified) — led a DMAIC project that reduced production defect rate from 4.2% to 0.8%, saving $340k annually in scrap and rework costs"

Technical Skills — What to Avoid vs What Works

❌ Too Vague — Avoid✅ Specific — Use Instead
Computer skillsSQL, Python, Excel (advanced — Power Query, VBA)
Engineering softwareAutoCAD 2024, SolidWorks, ANSYS FEA, MATLAB R2024
ProgrammingPython, JavaScript (React, Node.js), SQL, Git/GitHub
Accounting softwareQuickBooks Online, SAP ERP, Xero, Excel (financial modeling)
Data analysisSQL (advanced), Python (Pandas), Tableau, Power BI, statistical modeling
Healthcare ITEpic EMR (clinical workflows), Cerner, ICD-10 / CPT coding
Security skillsSIEM (Splunk), penetration testing, NIST 800-53, ISO 27001
Manufacturing skillsCNC operation, Six Sigma (Green Belt), ISO 9001, SPC, Lean / Kaizen
Lab skillsPCR / qPCR, HPLC, ELISA, flow cytometry, LIMS, GMP compliance
AI skillsPrompt engineering, Python (scikit-learn, TensorFlow), GitHub Copilot

Technical Skills for ATS — What to Know

Technical skills are the highest-priority ATS keywords on most resumes. Here is how to ensure yours are scanned correctly:

  • Exact tool names: "AutoCAD" not "CAD." "SolidWorks" not "3D modelling software." "Google Analytics 4" not "analytics." ATS systems match exact product and technology names.
  • Spell out abbreviations: "SQL (Structured Query Language)" covers both forms. "PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)" works for both technical and non-technical reviewers.
  • Include certifications: "Six Sigma Black Belt (ASQ certified)," "AWS Solutions Architect," "PMP," and "CCNA" are strong ATS signals in their respective fields.
  • Use the job description's exact phrasing: If the posting says "MATLAB" not "MATLAB/Simulink," use "MATLAB" first. If it says "machine learning" not "ML," use the full phrase.
  • Use a plain list format: Tables and text boxes can cause ATS parsers to skip your entire skills section. A simple bulleted or comma-separated list is safest.

Related Skill Guides

💻 Computer Skills 📊 IT & Data Skills 🔩 Engineering Skills 🩺 Nursing Skills Best Skills for Resume Hard vs Soft Skills

Frequently Asked Questions

Technical skills for a resume are specialized, job-related abilities that enable someone to perform specific tasks using professional tools, systems, methods, or processes. They span programming, engineering, data analysis, laboratory procedures, medical systems, financial modeling, manufacturing processes, and more. Technical skills are specific to a field or role, measurable, and usually teachable through training or education.
Computer skills generally refer to using computers, office software, and digital tools — Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace, Zoom, Salesforce. Technical skills are broader and include specialized professional capabilities: AutoCAD drafting, CNC machine operation, laboratory PCR techniques, financial modeling, network administration, or clinical documentation. The two overlap significantly — SQL is both a computer skill and a technical skill — but technical skills extend well beyond digital tool usage.
Use a dedicated "Technical Skills" or "Core Technical Competencies" section. Name exact tools, technologies, and methodologies from the job description — never vague categories. Add proficiency context for complex skills: "SQL (advanced — window functions, CTEs, query optimization)" rather than just "SQL." Back key technical skills with achievement evidence in your experience bullets. Use a plain list format for ATS compatibility.
There is no universal number — focus on relevance rather than length. For technical roles (software engineering, data science, engineering), 12 to 20 technical skills in a grouped section is common. For hybrid roles (marketing manager, HR business partner), 6 to 10 well-chosen technical skills is more appropriate. The most important rule: every skill you list must be one you can demonstrate in an interview or technical screen.
Technical certifications (AWS Solutions Architect, Six Sigma Black Belt, PMP, CCNA, ACLS, CPA) are best listed in a separate "Certifications" section — not in the technical skills list. However, the underlying skill can and should appear in your technical skills section: "AWS (Solutions Architect — certified)" or "Six Sigma (Black Belt — ASQ certified, 2024)." This way, both the skill and the credential appear and can be scanned by ATS.
Yes — with an important distinction. Using ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot for productivity is a computer skill worth listing ("AI productivity tools — ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot for data analysis and content workflows"). Developing or fine-tuning machine learning models is a technical skill ("machine learning — Python scikit-learn, TensorFlow, feature engineering, model evaluation"). Never conflate the two — an interviewer who sees "machine learning" on a resume will ask technical questions about it.
List technical skills gained through: coursework (Python (academic — data structures, algorithms coursework)), personal projects (React — built personal portfolio site with React, TypeScript, and Tailwind CSS), certifications (Google Analytics Individual Qualification — 2025), internships, or volunteer work. Always add context about the source. "SQL (academic)" or "Python (self-taught — GitHub projects)" is honest and informative. Do not claim professional-level expertise from a single online course.