For Salesforce Developers, getting past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) requires more than just listing "Salesforce" on your resume. Hiring managers look for specific technical competencies, from Apex and Lightning Web Components to API integrations and declarative tools. This guide breaks down the essential hard skills, soft skills, and action verbs you need to optimize your resume and land your next role in the Salesforce ecosystem.
Top hard skills for salesforce developer resumes
These are the technical skills that ATS systems and hiring managers look for on salesforce developer resumes. Include the ones you genuinely have experience with.
Apex
The core programming language for Salesforce development; essential for writing custom business logic.
Lightning Web Components (LWC)
Crucial for building modern, responsive user interfaces on the Salesforce platform.
SOQL & SOSL
Essential for querying and searching Salesforce data efficiently within your code.
Visualforce
While older, still necessary for maintaining legacy systems and understanding classic Salesforce UI.
Aura Components
Important for supporting existing applications built before the widespread adoption of LWC.
REST/SOAP API Integration
Critical for connecting Salesforce with external systems and third-party applications.
Salesforce Flows
Demonstrates your ability to use declarative automation tools before resorting to custom code.
Apex Triggers
Vital for automating complex data manipulation and enforcing business rules upon record changes.
Salesforce DX (SFDX)
Shows proficiency in modern Salesforce development lifecycle and command-line tools.
CI/CD Pipeline Management
Important for automated testing and deploying code efficiently across Salesforce environments.
JavaScript/HTML/CSS
Fundamental web technologies required for front-end development within Lightning components.
Git/Version Control
Essential for collaborative development and tracking changes in your Salesforce codebase.
Test-Driven Development (TDD)
Crucial for writing robust Apex test classes to meet Salesforce's minimum code coverage requirements.
Data Modeling
Important for designing efficient custom objects, relationships, and schema within the platform.
Experience Cloud
Valuable for building external-facing portals and communities on Salesforce.
Got your skills list? Use these skills in our free builder with ATS-optimized templates.
Build your resume →Essential soft skills
Beyond technical ability, these soft skills differentiate strong salesforce developer candidates.
- Problem-Solving
- Communication
- Analytical Thinking
- Adaptability
- Time Management
- Team Collaboration
- Attention to Detail
- Client-Facing Skills
- Project Management
- Continuous Learning
Recommended certifications
| Certification | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Salesforce Certified Platform Developer I (PDI) | Validates foundational knowledge of custom development and declarative capabilities on the platform. |
| Salesforce Certified Platform Developer II (PDII) | Demonstrates advanced programmatic capabilities and data modeling expertise. |
| Salesforce Certified Platform App Builder (App Builder) | Proves your ability to design, build, and implement custom applications using declarative tools. |
| Salesforce Certified JavaScript Developer I (JS Dev I) | Validates your front-end expertise, crucial for developing Lightning Web Components. |
Power action verbs
Start your bullet points with these strong verbs to demonstrate impact.
Example resume bullet points
Here's how to use these skills in real resume bullets with quantified results.
ATS optimization tips
Use standard Salesforce terminology
Ensure you use the exact terms recognized by the platform, such as "Lightning Web Components" instead of just "Lightning," to match ATS keyword algorithms.
Highlight your code coverage
Quantify your testing abilities by mentioning specific Apex code coverage percentages, as this is a critical metric for Salesforce deployments.
Balance code and clicks
ATS systems and hiring managers look for developers who know when to use declarative tools (Flows) versus programmatic solutions (Apex), so highlight both.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most important skills for a Salesforce Developer resume?
The most critical skills include Apex, Lightning Web Components (LWC), SOQL/SOSL, API Integrations, and a strong understanding of both declarative tools and programmatic solutions.
How many skills should I list on my Salesforce Developer resume?
Aim for 10-15 highly relevant hard skills tailored to the job description, plus 5-6 soft skills that demonstrate your ability to collaborate and solve business problems.
Should I include Trailhead badges on my resume?
While official Salesforce Certifications hold the most weight, mentioning your Trailhead Ranger status or linking to your Trailblazer profile is a great way to show continuous learning and passion for the platform.
Put these skills to work
Now that you know which skills to highlight, use our free resume builder to create an ATS-optimized resume with the right keywords in the right places.
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