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Imagine that you have developed a software from scratch for a start-up. You are not a co-founder, but you are the person who has created the source code repository, and has written pretty much all of the code.

What would be the term for such position to put in a résumé? Chief Technical Officer sounds like it is more of a management position, rather than actually being involved in building the software.

Is there a better alternative?

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    Just like silverware and tableware, stoneware and spyware, the word software functions only as a mass noun in English, not as a count noun that you get to use the indefinite article a before. If you want something countable, then you can call it a program or a piece of software. You might be interested in our sister site for English Language Learners.
    – tchrist
    Dec 9, 2017 at 3:35
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    @tchrist Thanks for the information, but linking to ELL was a bit harsh :)
    – Utku
    Dec 9, 2017 at 5:19
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    You were the main or chief developer (or programmer) of the software for a startup in the field of ___ (if you don't want to name the company).
    – Xanne
    Dec 9, 2017 at 5:26
  • @Xanne Primary or lead developer would also be acceptable terms. From the OP's description, however I think main or primary could be the best options as chief and lead imply heading up a team and it sounds as though the development was essentially a solo effort.
    – BoldBen
    Dec 9, 2017 at 8:56
  • @BoldBen Good point. I like "software architect" or "main software architect" also as possibilities.
    – Xanne
    Dec 9, 2017 at 9:41

2 Answers 2

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"Senior Developer" is a common term for this. Many companies distinguish between their stock of developers and those that lead development activities — the "senior developers" or "lead developers".

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Software Architect.

Guru works but not for a resume. Often Engineers will operate under the title of President, or CEO. My boss goes by President, and Sr. Engineer. The President of a software company knows about code.

I once worked for a company who's CTO was a programmer yes yes yes. Often the CTO is more of a DBA/System Administrator type it seems.

I really enjoyed this question, My name is Jesse Ivy, I am an author, and when I got my first job out of college I was hired as Software Engineer, shortly after I realized there was not any promotion I could receive. :)

Currently I am working under the title of Developer, writing a Java/MySQL API which administers an important curriculum. Thank you for asking.

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