56 Technical Buzzwords You Need On Resume

Your engineering resume needs to be filled with these technical buzzwords to 10X chances of getting your dream job.

Every job opening gets up to 250 applications (sometimes even more per job). As a result, it becomes even more important that you get the right technical buzzwords on your resume. Not having technical buzzwords on your resume is corporate suicide.

(The 30th Technical Buzzword will shock you!)

March 2, 2024 by Kazu Fujimoto

Big Data

Big data refers to large datasets that software utilizes through means of data acquisition. With Big Data, programmers and executives have an idea on what they need to find out and what they want to do with the data.

Companies can leverage data in cases such as advertising where they specific user behavior – impressions, click through rates, time watched, etc.

This data helps engineers and companies make changes to optimize performance for user behavior and experience.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence refers to the mechanical system that synthesizes data and behavior, done by a non-human.

An example of artificial intelligence we all see everyday are algorithms by applications that recommend things we may be interested in.

Machine Learning

Machine Learning is a subset of artificial intelligence which utilizes data and algorithms to mock human learning behavior. As result of this integration, machine learning is a system that gradually improves accuracy over time as more and more data is gathered.

Internet of Things

Internet of Things (IoT) defines the set of physical objects that are embedded with data exchange such as sensors, software, and other technologies to enable communication between devices and systems over the internet.

5G

5G represents the fifth generation technology for broadband cellular networks and is a predecessor to the 4G networks. Currently, most phones are connected on the 5G network.

Deep Learning

Deep learning is a subset of machine learning, similar to how machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence.

It is a very specific form of machine learning in which the learning structure process consists of multiple input, output, and hidden layers.

Deep learning basically trains a computer to do tasks a human can do.

Neural Network

A neural network is a network of neurons which is made up of connections of nodes. They’re a set of algorithms that are designed for pattern recognition, similar to way humans learn. Neural networks interpret data through a machine lens and accumulate data and provide feedback based on raw inputs.

Web 3

Web 3 brings forth the World Wide Web which incorporates decentralization, blockchain, and token-based economics.

Decentralization eliminates the need to for an object to go through an intermediary – something very valuable to essentially take the middle man out.

Blockchain technology represents a shared ledger that processes transactions and assets in a business network. What makes cryptocurrency so attractive is the blockchain technology that runs behind the background. This technology allows the transactions to be stored publicly, while creating a platform for peer to peer activity.

Token-based economics provides a system of reinforcement of target behavior. It provides a set of incentives for a user to behave a certain fashion. An example of this is giving users incentives to hold a specific token to unlock certain features.

SaaS

Software as a service (Saas) is a business model that allows users to utilize software for day to day functions. Specific Saas applications include market analysis tools, music platforms, data scrapers, and more.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing represents on-demand access for computer system and network applications without the need for direct data storage. Companies world wide are implementing cloud computing technology to facilitate the user and transmission of data globally. This eliminates the need for physical storage of large sets of data on direct hard drives.

Cloud Engineering

Cloud Engineering is the discipline that refers to the designing and building of cloud computing structures. Within cloud engineering, there are more specific subsets such as design, development, and administration that are responsible for the upkeep of various data servers.

Cloud Engineering is what allows functions such as cloud computing to function.

Data Structures

Data Structures consist of a systematic way of organizing data. It is responsible for data organization, management, and storage that makes data easy to use and transfer for specific applications.

Data Structures represent an important foundation necessary for software engineers to do their jobs. They are a large part of the interview process in getting software engineering jobs. Be ready for data structures.

Algorithms

Algorithms bring forth a set of instructions used to solve specific problems or to perform a computation. They are used in applications which require data processing. Think of algorithms as a series of steps and sequences needed for a system to solve a particular problem.

Understanding algorithms is also an extensive function of being a software engineer. They will also be very relevant when you are interviewing for software engineering positions.

Data Analytics

Data Analytics is the science of analyzing and interpreting raw data to make conclusions about the information. Key types of data analytics include descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive. Within these subsets and the analysis of data, companies can make organization decisions based on large scale raw data.

Data Acquisition

Data Acquisition is the process of gather real world data through inputs and signals. It can be done both physically and digitally and is utilized in many disciplines of engineering and science such as digital, computer, software, electric, or mechanical systems.

SQL

SQL represents a standard language for the storage, manipulation, and retrieval of data in databases. Specific software applications of SQL include MySQL, SQL Server, MS Access, Oracle, and many other data base systems in the data industry.

Javascript

Javascript represents one of the programming languages which enable dynamic updating of content, multimedia control, and many other functions within the World Wide Web.

HTML

HTML, HyperText Markup Language, is the standard language for documents in a web browser. Every web page you see is comprised of HTML code that is used to output the visual details of what you’re reading.

CSS

CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) is the code that stylizes web content. It runs on a rule based language meaning that for a group of elements on a page, you can decide to apply a certain rule or code.

You need to use CSS to apply specific rules to text such as making the link color white or red.

MATLAB

MATLAB is a programming language developed by MathWorks which has function such was matrix manipulation, data plotting, algorithm and interpretation.

Python

Python is a very high level general programming languages that emphasizes code readability with significant code indentation. It is a programming language that allows you to create web applications and use many of the principles such as artificial intelligence and machine learning in software.

CAD

CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. The use of CAD has been revolutionary regarding engineering and physical products as a whole. Because of CAD, engineering lead times for products have been so streamlined. CAD has allowed engineering lead times to go from months to weeks.

FEA

FEA stands for Finite Element Analysis. Finite Element Analysis is what verifies many of the CAD parts and designs that engineers come up with. As engineers come up with designs, it’s important for them to verify that their parts will survive operating conditions. With FEA results, typically done through numerical methods, Engineers use their decision making and critical thinking skills to determine part acceptance.

Structural Analysis

Structural Analysis is a form of FEA regarding the strength and feasibility of structures. Structures are subject to many different types of operating conditions and it’s important for Structural Analysts and Engineers to understand and interpret them.

Seismic Analysis

Seismic Analysis is for buildings, structures, and anything that is subject to seismic loads such as earthquakes. There are standards such as American Concrete Institute (ACI) that define allowable limits and safety factors for components subject to seismic loading. To be able to interpret standards and apply them to engineering concepts such as building design is a critical skill for engineers to have.

Computational Fluid Dynamics

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) refers to an analysis to determine fluid flow behavior on an object. CFD is used to determine parameters such as optimal geometry or drag coefficients on structures. CFD determines specific structures such as airfoils, nozzles, and automotive bodies.

Numerical Methods and Analysis

Numerical methods are the math behind what these complicated analysis methods use. The math associated with numerical methods and analysis is very difficult. Numerical methods consist of principles such as partial differential equations, calculus, and linear algebra. Many of the analysis software that engineers uses numerical methods.

Calculus

Calculus is a fundamental mathematics principle that engineers need to take. The foundation of calculus is based on 2 concepts – derivatives and integrals. Engineering courses in school consist of these fundamentals.

Linear Algebra

Linear algebra is a form of mathematics consisting of linear equations and associated representations in matrices and vector spaces. Engineering requires the use and interpretation of these matrices and vector spaces. Specific applications associated with linear algebra include principles such as data structures, data acquisition, and data interpretation.

Differential Equations

Differential equations make up equations that represent 1+ unknown functions and their associated derivatives. In the physical space, they represent rates of changes and equations of motions of systems.

Want powerful action words to put on your resume?

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Statistics

Statistics is associated with the collection, interpretation, presentation, and analysis of data. Data scientists and data analysts have their jobs entirely based on the fundamentals of statistics. Those that work in data are responsible for the gathering and interpretation of data to aid companies in making executive decisions.

Some of the executive decisions made have downstream impacts that go in the billions or trillions of dollars.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual Reality represents a simulated experience that provides users a 3D display to mock real life applications. VR is highly present in both video games and real life work applications. The development and innovation of VR technology will be heavily focused on in these coming years.

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality represents a simulated experience that provides users a combination of both real word + computer generated content. Examples of this include both video games and working applications. AR is another form of technology that will undergo heavy innovation. We expect to see more workplaces integrate AR as a function of day to day activities.

Non-Destructive Examination

Non Destructive Examination defines a series of inspection methods that don’t require destruction of the part. Destructive methods include those such as charpy impact testing, where they take a physical specimen and evaluate material properties. Non Destructive methods include those such as ultrasound, ultrasonic, eddy current, liquid penetrant, and many more types.

User Interface (UI)

User interface defines the space where humans will interact with systems and machines. Machines such as computers require the input from humans and as a result, it is important to design products and applications to optimize user interface.

User Experience (UX)

User experience defines the actual experience a user undergoes when using a machine, product, or software service. UX involves things such as ease of use, user perception, and user function. It’s important for tech companies to design products to keep both UI and UX in mind.

Wifi 6

Wi-Fi 6, AKA IEEE 802.11ax is an IEEE standard for wireless local area networks (WLANs) and the successor to 802.11ac. Wifi 6 brings forth improvements that boost performance of connection between devices such as phones, tablets, and computers to networks. It enables use of networks in very congested areas such as stadiums, workplaces, and even your own home.

IEEE

IEEE stands for Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. They are responsible for the definitions of many standards that deal with electronic technology we use today such as Wifi.

Sustainability

Sustainability defines the long term outlook on environmental natural resources that we are able to use today. The current sentiment given fossil fuels, climate change, and green house gases all aim to address long term outlook – sustainability. Is what we are doing in the present day sustainable for years to come?

Digital Transformation

Companies worldwide are undergoing a digital transformation across the globe. This means companies are investing their time, effort, and money into digitalizing their systems. This is where cloud engineering and cloud computing come into play as companies aim to keep records digital given the technology environment that we are in.

Quantum Computing

Quantum computing is a means of technology that uses quantum mechanics to solve problems that are too difficult for computers. Examples of systems that implement quantum computing are trading algorithms, research and development, testing, and analysis.

Pressure Vessel

A pressure vessel is a component designed to hold fluid such as liquid or gasses at a pressure that deviates from ambient pressure. Industries such as Oil&Gas are comprised of pressure vessel design. It is important that these pressure vessels meet operating conditions.

GD&T

Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) refers to a set of standards that engineers, designers, and machinists utilize to create finished produced parts. In the real world, it is impossible for parts to come perfectly flat or perfectly parallel so we must define standards that determine what we can and can’t get away with.

Lean Six Sigma

Lean 6S defines manufacturing principles that companies should implement to become “lean”.

1. Sort
2. Set in order
3. Shine
4. Standardize
5. Sustain
6. Safety

The methodology comes from Japanese manufacturing principles which have led to companies such as Toyota being successful over the long period of time. Generally speaking, the Japanese are great at optimization, but not so much at innovation. The Japanese don’t really have good products that they themselves design, but they are very optimization driven.

Agile

Agile defines practices pertaining to project management, software development, and engineering to deliver value to customers. The agile framework is one that is focused on streamlining processes, promoting team collaborating, meeting deadlines, and fulfilling customer needs. Agile breaks phases of projects and defines the how in getting things done.

Many companies are aiming to implement agile practices in their business operations.

Scrum

Scrum is a project management framework that is commonly used in software development and engineering. It is designed for a small team environment, in which goals can be separated into tasks in a time-based window, called sprints. Companies use the sprint approach to track and monitor daily/monthly action items that lead to companies fulfilling customer needs.

Metrics (Revenue, Efficiency, Cost)

With all resumes, you need to include quantitative results such as metrics (revenue, efficiency, cost).

How has your direct work in the above technical buzzwords affected these key company metrics?

This is why companies will hire you – because you can bring something to the table and make business impacts.

OPSEC

OPSEC refers to Operations Security. With day to day business and civil applications becoming more digital, they are more and more subject to cybersecurity threats. This is where basic applications pertaining to OPSEC come in.

Companies need to have their OPSEC framework dialed in, or they risk being compromised by digital adversaries.

EV

EVs (Electric Vehicles) are one of the pinnacles and forefronts of engineering in the coming age. Companies such as Tesla, GM, Audi, Mercedes, Hyundai, and more are getting into this space. EV is heavily justified by political influence. In the US – the Biden Administration is aiming to stop production of ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles by 2030-2050 or so.

Solar

Solar energy is one of the most growing and affordable sources of energy in the United States. The drive to clean energy by political administrations increases the demand and innovation for these solar companies and applications. Renewable energy sources such as solar make it very attractive as the use of these will dramatically reduce the use of fossil fuels.

Turbomachinery

Turbomachinery defines a mechanical system in which energy transfer occurs between the rotor and fluid. In these mechanical systems, it is common to include both turbines and compressors which are associated with engineering principles such as Newton and Euler’s laws. Turbomachinery is responsible for power generation and operate in industries such as refineries, gas plants, chemical processing, steel mills, electricity generating, and more.

Composite Materials

Composite materials are materials that are produced from two or more different homogenous materials. Examples of composites include fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs), Polymer Matrix Composites (PMCs), and Glass fibre-reinforced polymers (GFRP). Due to their very high strength to weight ratio, the use of composite materials is very attractive in industries such as aerospace.

DevOps

DevOps is the methodology used for the design, development, and maintenance of software in the IT industry.

Within DevOps come associated keywords, software, and principles such as –

• Agile
• Microsoft Azure
• Scrum
• IT

DevOps aims to integrate and automate the work of software development and IT to improve and shorten the systems development timeframe.

Robotics

Robotics refers to the design, construction, and operation of robots for various applications. The use of robots will become more widespread regarding manufacturing. Humans can only run ~4-8 hours per day. Robots will be able to run 24 hours, 7 days a week, with very little maintenance. (Robots won’t give HR issues)

We see the use of robotics becoming more prevalent and optimized in the near future.

Automotive

The Automotive industry is responsible for the design, development, manufacturing and selling of motor vehicles. Automotive vehicles can be broken up into two types (generally) – ICEs (Internal Combustion Engines) and EVs (Electric Vehicles).

The design and manufacturing of both those vehicles make up the majority of products in the automotive market.

Aerospace

The Aerospace industry involves the design, development, manufacturing, testing, and analysis of products such as aircraft and spacecraft.

Products in aerospace are subject to environments beyond Earth’s atmosphere. To get products to these environments, there are many series and steps associated such as designing for the right operating conditions and meeting specific aerospace standards.

Closing Thoughts On Our 56 Technical Buzzwords

These technical buzzwords work for resumes in industries such as Computer Science, Software, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace, Automotive, and much more. Use this technical buzzwords list as a guide to include specific keywords on your resume.

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