What keywords should a Software Engineer resume include for ATS?

The highest-impact universal ones: your primary language (Python, JavaScript, Java, Go), framework (React, Spring, Django), cloud (AWS/GCP/Azure), database (PostgreSQL, MongoDB), and DevOps tooling (Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD). Ascend's free ATS checker scans the JD and tells you exactly which ones are missing.

How long should a Software Engineer resume be?

One page for 0–7 years experience, two pages for senior/staff/principal. ATS systems do not penalize length, but recruiters skim — keep your strongest impact and most-relevant keywords in the top third of page one.

Should I include side projects on my Software Engineer resume?

Yes, if they reinforce the keywords the JD calls for. A side project showing production deployment, scaling, or a niche skill the JD names is worth more than a generic CRUD demo. Drop the side project if it doesn't add a unique keyword.

Optimize your Software Engineer resume. In 60 seconds. Free.