Classic Resume for Software Engineers
The safe bet. Scores 95+ on ATS. Works for every company from startup to FAANG.
No credit card · No watermarks · Switch templates any time
About this template
The Classic template has been the most downloaded resume on CVEdge because it eliminates every ATS risk. Single column, standard headings, no graphics — it parses cleanly through every major ATS system including Greenhouse, Workday, Lever, and iCIMS.
For software engineers, this is your default unless you have a reason to deviate. The layout places your Experience section immediately after the header, so hiring managers see your most recent role within the first three seconds. Bullet points align perfectly for metric-led achievements: "Reduced API latency by 40% across 10M daily requests."
Classic works at every career stage. Junior engineers use it to let their projects and education compete on equal footing. Senior engineers use it because a clean, confident layout signals focus rather than decoration. Staff and principal engineers pair it with strong leadership language in the summary.
CVEdge's AI bullet rewriter and Fix All ATS tool are optimised for Classic's structure — run Fix All after uploading and watch your ATS score jump.
Who is this template for?
- SWEs applying to FAANG and big tech companies
- Engineers updating a resume after 3+ years
- Junior engineers with projects and internships
- Anyone unsure which template to pick
Start with this template — free
Upload your existing CV or start from scratch. CVEdge pre-fills your content into the template and gives you an instant ATS score.
Questions about this template
Is the Classic template ATS-friendly for software engineering roles?+
Yes — single-column layout, standard fonts (Geist Sans), and no graphics make it parse cleanly through all major ATS systems. Scores 95+ on CVEdge's ATS analyser for well-written content.
Should a software engineer use Classic or Executive?+
Classic for L1–L5 / junior to mid-senior. Executive for L5+ / staff, principal, or engineering manager roles where seniority and leadership emphasis matter.
Can I add a photo to the Classic template?+
Classic supports an optional avatar. For US/UK software engineering roles, it's generally recommended to omit the photo — ATS systems and US recruiting norms favour photo-free CVs.
Template features
- Passes all ATS filters including Greenhouse, Workday, and Lever
- Single-column layout puts Experience above the fold
- Standard headings (Experience, Education, Skills) ATS parsers expect
- Works perfectly with CVEdge's AI bullet rewriter
- Clean PDF export — no formatting surprises
More software engineer templates
View all
Sharp Resume for Software Engineers
Bold section dividers, modern look. Passes ATS while standing out from generic formats.
Minimal Resume for Software Engineers
Maximum whitespace. Your code speaks louder than your template.
Executive Resume for Senior Engineers
Premium layout for staff, principal, and engineering manager roles.
Build your resume with Classic — free
Upload your existing CV or start fresh. ATS score included. No credit card required.