How The Strong Interest Inventory Relates to a Career as a Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers can fit into the Investigative Theme Code because they often use their analytical skills to identify and evaluate the quality of software products. They must be meticulous, have a firm understanding of the software development process, and be able to recognize and solve software issues. This requires a high degree of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are characteristics commonly associated with individuals in the Investigative Theme Code. A Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester must have a deep understanding of software development processes and techniques, as well as a comprehensive knowledge of software development life cycles (SDLCs) and software testing techniques. They must have excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to create detailed software test plans and test case specifications and execute tests and document results. They must also be able to track and document software defects and analyze and report test results. This role requires thorough problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.

What Do a Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester Do?

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers can specialize in various areas within the software development process. For example, they may focus on manual testing, which involves manually testing software applications to identify and report defects. Automation testing, where they use specialized software and tools to automate the testing process. Performance testing, where they evaluate the performance and scalability of software applications under different conditions, and others. Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers basically perform testing of the products to make sure that it passes a certain level of quality standards. They must work hand-in-hand with the development team to evaluate a project’s design, requirements, and specifications.

A Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester’s Day-to-Day Tasks and Tools

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers use a variety of tools and technologies to perform their job responsibilities. These tools and technologies help them to manage and automate the testing process, evaluate the performance and scalability of software applications, assess the security of software applications, diagnose and fix defects in software applications, and test mobile applications. Some of the common tools used by Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers include test management tools, test automation tools, performance testing tools, security testing tools, debugging tools, and mobile testing tools. The choice of tools and technologies can vary based on the organization’s needs, the technology they work with, and their area of specialization.

As stated by The Department of Labor, The Following Work Tasks are Most Often Completed by Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Testers:

• File operational activities.
• Examine data to categorize or resolve operational problems.
• Troubleshoot matters with computer applications or systems.
• Accumulate technical information or documentation.
• Report maintenance or equipment problems to the proper personnel.
• Progress testing practices or procedures.
• Document design or advanced procedures.
• Indorse changes to expand computer or information systems.
• Install computer software.
• Check computer system procedures to ensure proper functioning.
• Create databases to store electronic data.
• Observe computer system performance to confirm proper operation.
• Progress performance metrics or standards correlated to information technology.

(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org.  Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Testers. Career Code: 15-1253.00 Detailed Work Activities)

Core Activities for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers:

• File software faults using a bug-tracking system, and report defects to software creators.
• Advance testing programs that address database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, fault or bug retests, or usability.
• Create test plans, scenarios, writings, or procedures.
• Document test procedures to certify replicability and compliance with standards.
• Deliver feedback and recommendations to designers on software usability and functionality.
• Install, maintain, or use software testing programs.
• Check system modifications to prepare for implementation.
• Generate or maintain databases of identified test mistakes.
• Develop or specify standards, methods, or procedures to determine product quality or release readiness.
• Observe bug resolution efforts and track accomplishments.
• Update automated test scripts to ensure currency.

(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org.  Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Testers. Career Code: 15-1253.00 Tasks- Category-Core)

Experience and Education

To become a Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester, you will need to have a degree in computer science or a related field. You will also need to have experience in software development and testing. Experience with software engineering, database development, and web programming is beneficial, as is experienced with software testing and quality assurance practices. Additionally, you should have excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to stay focused and organized when troubleshooting and debugging software.

Salary and Wages

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers generally make a good salary range. According to Salary.com, the average yearly salary for a Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester is between $64,923 and $80,246. This range can differ depending on experience, the company you work for, and the location. Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers also benefit from job perks such as health insurance, paid vacation and sick days, and retirement savings plans. Depending on the company, you may also receive bonuses, tuition assistance, and flexible work schedules.

Below are some employment trends for Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers:

•     Median Salary: $47.22 hourly, $98,220 annual
•     Employment: 196,300 employees
•     Projected growth (2021-2031): Much faster than average (11% or higher)
•     Projected job openings (2021-2031): 19,500

[Information retrieved from Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data and 2018-2028 employment projections]

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References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data and 2012-2022 employment projections Onetonline.org