- 10 Helpful Tips: Writing Effective Job Descriptions for Technical Roles - January 8, 2025
- How to Avoid Job Description Mistakes: A Recruiter’s Guide - January 7, 2025
- What is Skills-based Hiring? + How to Get It Right - December 26, 2024
Writing effective job descriptions for tech roles is essential to attract, hire, and retain top IT talent.
In a report by CompTia, tech occupation employment is expected to grow at about twice the rate (2x) of overall employment across the US in the next 10 years. This confirms the relative strength of tech employment compared to many other occupation categories as companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy pursue digital transformation (DX) initiatives.
Furthermore, the replacement rate for tech occupations during the 2024-2034 period is expected to average about 6% annually, or approximately 350,000 workers yearly, totaling several million through 2034, according to an update from BLS.
Companies can build strong, high-performing tech teams by incorporating best practices in crafting clear, concise, and well-written job description. Here’s how:
1. Involve the Team
The first step in writing effective job descriptions is to research the role. Consult the team lead or hiring manager to learn about the daily duties, challenges, and technical expertise required. If the role already exists in the company, speak with current employees in the same role to get more details. Talk to subject matter experts to get more information about complex and technical aspects and the industry-specific terms you can include in the job description to make it more targeted and accurate.
Seth Geftic, VP-Marketing for cybersecurity platform Huntress, recommends performing a detailed job analysis, particularly for highly specialized positions. He says,
“This process involves interviewing hiring managers and employees already in the position, so the person writing the job description has a comprehensive understanding of the role and its requirements from two vital perspectives. As a practice, this is particularly effective if you are looking for someone with a rare skill set. A job analysis like this will help you produce targeted job descriptions, making sure you communicate with them in the right way and better achieve your goals.”
2. Understand the Role and Its Impact
Before you write your position description for a technical role, it is essential to understand the position and its significance in the organization. This means deeply understanding the skills, tools, and responsibilities involved.
Explain how this role fits into larger projects or company objectives. Candidates want to know how their work contributes to something meaningful.
Brian Pontarelli, CEO of auth software and user management solutions platform Fusion Auth, stressed job descriptions should provide the exciting challenges of the role. He says,
“For example, when expanding our team, we emphasized the opportunity to pioneer innovative features. This approach ensures that candidates understand how they can contribute creatively to the company’s growth. It’s key to sell the role not just as a new job, but as a chance to be part of a dynamic project where one’s work genuinely makes an impact.”
Example:
Cybersecurity Analyst – Logistics Management Institute
LMI is seeking a Cybersecurity Specialist to support the mission to develop, manage and perform end-to-end life cycle logistics on medical equipment to protect and sustain the Warfighter’s and their families for the Nation.
3. Use a Clear and Specific Job Title
The job title is the first thing candidates see, so it needs to be clear, professional, and descriptive when writing effective job descriptions. A good title attracts the right candidates and ensures your posting appears in relevant job searches.
Avoid jargon or over-the-top job titles (e.g., “Code Ninja” or “Tech Wizard”). Instead, use standard titles that job seekers will actually search for (e.g., “Software Engineer” vs. “Developer Extraordinaire”). Mention seniority level and specialization, if applicable (e.g., “Senior Front-End Developer”). Adding details like seniority or specific expertise makes the title more targeted and informative.
Examples:
Instead of “Developer,” write “Senior Back-End Developer.”
Write “Cybersecurity Analyst,” instead of “IT Professional,”
Instead of “Engineer,” write “Machine Learning Engineer.”
4. Clearly Outline Responsibilities and Expectations
Lack of clarity about roles results in people having contrasting expectations regarding the job. Mismatched expectations can lead to job dissatisfaction and decreased productivity.
Damien Filiatrault, Founder and CEO of web development consultancy Scalable Path, says the lack of clarity about roles results in people having contrasting expectations regarding the job. He says,
“Make sure your job descriptions provide both overviews of day-to-day activities and broader goals. For example, instead of saying “develop software,” specify “design and implement RESTful APIs in Python.” Define how success is measured—for example, “deliver error-free releases at least 90% of the time”—to help candidates assess their ability to meet the role’s demands. This type of communication makes sure that you get professionals who have the required competence and mindset for the role.”
5. Specify Required Skills and Qualifications
Specifying the technical skills, programming languages, and frameworks needed for the position is critical:
- Technical Skills: Programming languages, frameworks, databases, tools, and software proficiency.
- Soft Skills: Problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and critical thinking abilities.
- Industry-Specific Knowledge: Understanding of relevant industry trends, regulations, and best practices.
- Education and Certifications: Required academic degrees and certifications.
Filiatrault iterated to list the required skills, tools, and technologies and describe them using industry-standard terms. He says,
“For instance, instead of asking for “experience in working with databases,” specify “proficiency in PostgreSQL and MongoDB.” Likewise, clarify the level of expertise needed—junior, intermediate, or senior—and include any must-have certifications or methodologies, such as “AWS Certified Solutions Architect” or “experience with CI/CD pipelines.” Avoid the use of the term “familiar with,” which can be ambiguous and subject to misinterpretation.”
A well-defined skill set helps attract candidates who possess the exact qualifications needed for the role. Writing effective job descriptions helps you filter out unqualified candidates, which enables you to fast-track your hiring timelines.
Example:
Senior React Developer – Scalable Path
6. Highlight Company Culture and Team Dynamics
While technical skills are essential for technical positions, it’s equally important to consider whether a potential candidate matches the company’s culture and team dynamics. Highlighting company culture helps attract candidates with similar values and work styles, leading to a more harmonious work environment. Describing team dynamics gives candidates a sense of the team’s personality, communication style, and collaboration approach, helping them assess if they’ll be a good fit.
Filiatrault mentions that it is often the case that an IT or engineering professional does not work merely for wages but instead looks for employment in companies whose values align with their own. He suggests, “Use the job description to communicate your company’s unique culture. For example, in the case of Scalable Path, since sustainability is core to our mission, we make sure to share how we are a carbon-neutral company. Similarly, if your company employs agile processes in the conduct of work, such as collaboration, flexibility, and solving problems through iterations and not expertise, it’s also worthwhile to point that out. Attracting candidates who align with these values increases the likelihood of long-term compatibility and satisfaction.”
Example:
Solutions Engineer, Americas Service Provider (Comcast) – Cisco
#WeAreCisco
#WeAreCisco where every individual brings their unique skills and perspectives together to pursue our purpose of powering an inclusive future for all.
Our passion is connection—we celebrate our employees’ diverse set of backgrounds and focus on unlocking potential. Cisconians often experience one company, many careers where learning and development are encouraged and supported at every stage. Our technology, tools, and culture pioneered hybrid work trends, allowing all to not only give their best, but be their best.
Our purpose, driven by our people, is what makes us the worldwide leader in technology that powers the internet. Helping our customers reimagine their applications, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals is what we do best. We ensure that every step we take is a step towards a more inclusive future for all. Take your next step and be you, with us!
7. List Salary Range and Employee Benefits
A clear salary range upfront is an important aspect of writing effective job descriptions. It allows candidates to assess if the position aligns with their expectations and career goals. It also promotes fairness and equity in the hiring process.
Mention perks that appeal to tech talent (e.g., hackathons, continuous learning budgets, flexible hours). Be specific about how such positions provide career advancement, mentorship opportunities, or a chance to learn more.
Filiatrault recommends including growth opportunities and career development in your job descriptions. He explains, “Technical professionals seek to grow. So, For instance, it is helpful to indicate in the advertisement whether the program provides opportunities for executive career development, attendance at international conferences, or reimbursement for further professional education. Positions that appear to offer safe employer-nurtured career-path progression are appealing to those who are looking for jobs that are more than a stepping-stone and hence improve retention and engagement.
Examples:
Software Engineer – Accruent
The salary range for this position (in local currency) is 79,300.00 – 147,300.00. Base pay offered may vary depending on various factors, including, but not limited to: job-related knowledge; skills; experience; and other eligibility factors such as geographic location. The Total Rewards package includes competitive base pay and an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and several programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
Principal Software Engineer – Core Platform (Ruby/Rails) – Huntress
What we offer:
- 100% remote work environment – since our founding in 2015
- Generous paid time off policy, including vacation, sick time, and paid holidays
- 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- Highly competitive and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits plans
- 401(k) with a 5% contribution regardless of employee contribution
- Life and Disability insurance plans
- Stock options for all full-time employees
- One-time $500 reimbursement for building/upgrading home office
- Annual allowance for education and professional development assistance
- $75 USD/month digital reimbursement
- Access to the BetterUp platform for coaching, personal, and professional growth
8. Make your Job Descriptions Inclusive
Inclusive language ensures job descriptions appeal to a broader range of candidates, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, or disability.
Bias-free job posts attract more qualified candidates who may otherwise be overlooked.
Run your job postings on Ongig’s Text Analyzer to review your job descriptions for unconscious bias. It will flag sexist and racist words and phrases such as ‘Rockstar Developer’ and replace them with more inclusive alternatives.
Include an EEO statement. You can also highlight diversity and inclusion initiatives in your job listing where relevant.
Example:
Software Engineering MTS – Salesforce
At Salesforce, we strive to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates.
If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please submit a request via this Accommodation Request Form.
Please note that Salesforce uses an automated employment decision tool to help our recruiters assess and evaluate candidates’ resumes. If you do not want Salesforce to use this tool with your application, please submit a request via this form.
Equal Opportunity Statement.
At Salesforce we believe that the business of business is to improve the state of our world. Each of us has a responsibility to drive Equality in our communities and workplaces. We are committed to creating a workforce that reflects society through inclusive programs and initiatives such as equal pay, employee resource groups, inclusive benefits, and more. Learn more about Equality at www.equality.com and explore our company benefits at www.salesforcebenefits.com.
Salesforce is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status. Know your rights: workplace discrimination is illegal. Salesforce does not accept unsolicited headhunter and agency resumes. Salesforce will not pay any third-party agency or company that does not have a signed agreement with Salesforce.
Salesforce welcomes all.
In the United States, compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, job level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, and benefits. More details about our company benefits can be found at the following link: https://www.salesforcebenefits.com.
9. Proofread and Optimize Job Descriptions
Before hitting the publish button, review your job descriptions for clarity and readability:
- Aim for Grade 8 reading level.
- Check for grammatical errors
- Make sure they are properly formatted. Use the right bullet points, headings, and subheadings.
- Make sure they have consistent sections like responsibilities and qualifications. Don’t forget to include other important information like EEO and details.
You don’t have to do this manually. You can automate these tasks with Ongig to create easy-to-read and compliant job descriptions.
10. Review and Regularly Update Job Descriptions
Writing effective job descriptions isn’t a one-time thing, especially if you repeatedly hire for the same role.
That’s why you need to monitor the performance of your job descriptions. Check the number of applications received vs the number of job ad views. You can also compare the quality of hires. Are the previous hires performing better than the new ones? Are they more likely to stay longer too?
Over time, job changes happen due to market demands, technological updates or to stay competitive. Sometimes the position changes into something bigger or more complex. Hence you need to rewrite your job descriptions to reflect the changes.
Ongig’s centralized cloud-based job library can help you update your job postings more efficiently It allows version control, so every revision is documented.
Writing Effective Job Descriptions: Making Technical Roles More Accessible
When writing effective job descriptions for technical roles, it’s a good idea to think beyond traditional qualifications. Many potential candidates may have the specific skills you need but lack a formal degree. So, by focusing on transferable skills and growth opportunities, you can create a compelling job description that appeals to a broader range of diverse candidates.
Highlight Transferable Skills When Writing Effective Job Descriptions
Instead of only listing degrees or certifications under job requirements, emphasize necessary skills and previous experience that align with the role. For example, mention problem-solving, coding proficiency, or teamwork under the list of requirements. This approach helps prospective employees see how their experiences, even in similar jobs or other industries, can make them the right person for the job.
Showcase Growth Opportunities When Writing Effective Job Descriptions
Many potential hires are looking for more than just an open position. They also want a great opportunity to grow in their careers. So, use the job summary to highlight mentorship programs, learning budgets, or pathways for career advancement. Mentioning these perks in your job posting can also attract top talent who value long-term development.
Consider Non-Traditional Backgrounds When Writing Effective Job Descriptions for Tech Roles
In today’s competitive job market, many of the most qualified candidates come from non-traditional paths. Therefore, when creating your well-crafted job description, highlight that your team values diverse perspectives. For example, include a line such as, “We welcome applicants with technical requirements met through self-learning, boot camps, or industry experience.” This can create a great first impression and also expand your applicant pool to include diverse candidates with unique strengths.
When Writing Effective Job Descriptions, Focus on Accessibility
A job description template that explicitly invites applications from underrepresented groups can make a positive impact. Clearly outline the process aspects of the job, such as daily tasks, job responsibilities, and working conditions, so potential candidates know exactly what to expect. Also, include details about your company’s values, such as commitment to inclusion, equity, and creating a supportive environment for all team members.
When Writing Effective Job Descriptions, Call Out Benefits and Support
Don’t forget to mention benefits packages or flexible arrangements that may appeal to career changers, such as remote work or flexible schedules. So, by showing that the role is a great opportunity for candidates at all stages of their careers, you’ll attract target candidates who are eager to become your new hire or new employee.
Writing Effective Job Descriptions: Close with a Warm Invitation
End your job advert with a warm invitation to apply. Include contact information, like an email address, so prospective employees feel comfortable reaching out with questions. Also, a welcoming tone and a focus on inclusivity will ensure you connect with the right talent for your open roles.
Why I wrote this
Crafting effective job descriptions is crucial for attracting and hiring top tech talent. Remember to involve your team, understand the role’s impact, use clear and specific language, and highlight company culture. To ensure your job descriptions are inclusive and compliant, consider using Ongig’s software to analyze and optimize your postings. Contact us today to schedule a demo.
