Computer & Mathematical
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Also called: Automation Tester, Information Technology Analyst (IT Analyst), Quality Assurance Analyst (QA Analyst), Quality Assurance Engineer (QA Engineer)
US median pay
$104,300
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
+5.7%
faster than average
Openings a year (US)
10,700
187,600 employed
Typical entry education
Bachelor's degree
Preparation 4/5 · Considerable preparation
What this job is
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
What they do day to day
- Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
- Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
- Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
- Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
- Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.
- Provide feedback and recommendations to developers on software usability and functionality.
- Install, maintain, or use software testing programs.
- Test system modifications to prepare for implementation.
- Create or maintain databases of known test defects.
- Develop or specify standards, methods, or procedures to determine product quality or release readiness.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Programming3.6/5
- Quality Control Analysis3.4/5
- Complex Problem Solving3.4/5
- Systems Evaluation3.2/5
- Systems Analysis3.1/5
- Operations Analysis3.1/5
- Judgment and Decision Making3.1/5
- Time Management3.0/5
Knowledge
- Computers and Electronics4.4/5
- English Language3.8/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- Engineering and Technology3.3/5
- Design3.0/5
- Education and Training2.9/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 4 of 5 — Considerable preparation. Usually a bachelor's degree and several years of related experience.
Typical entry education (BLS): Bachelor's degree.
Highest education of people in this job:
- Bachelor's degree50%
- Associate's degree26%
Who this job suits
Mostly Investigative
Ideas, research and solving problems
Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.