Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer and Mathematical
Write test plans, scripts, and procedures, then run them against programs to catch problems with function, output, screens, or content. Defects go into a tracking system so developers can fix them, and testers keep a record of known issues. The work also covers regression and usability checks, retesting after fixes, and reviewing designs so requirements and schedules stay realistic. Installing and using testing tools is part of the job. It suits people who like careful reading, clear writing, and methodical problem-finding more than building the product itself.
Typical education: Bachelor’s Degree (4-year)
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$104'300
Median Wage Market Position
$104'300
What you might do
- Find and document problems in program behavior
- Design test plans, scenarios, and scripts
- Run tests that cover errors and regressions
- Log defects and send them to developers
- Test system changes before they go live
- Advise developers on usability and function issues
Skills that matter
- Designing test plans and scenarios
- Scripts for regression and negative tests
- Defect notes in a bug tracking system
- Spoken feedback on usability and function
- Close reading of specs and expected output
- Listening in software design reviews
AI & the future of this role
Test case generation, regression checks, and defect triage can already lean on automation that may expand quickly. Exploratory judgment and high-stakes release decisions still count, but much of the volume work looks increasingly vulnerable.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details