Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

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Career Profile

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

What they do

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.

Also Called: Automation Tester, Information Technology Analyst (IT Analyst), Quality Assurance Analyst (QA Analyst), Quality Assurance Engineer (QA Engineer), Quality Engineer, Software Quality Assurance Analyst (SQA Analyst), Software Quality Assurance Engineer (SQA Engineer), Software Quality Engineer, Software Test Engineer, Test Engineer, Automation Tester, Information Technology Analyst (IT Analyst), Quality Assurance Analyst (QA Analyst), Quality Assurance Engineer (QA Engineer), Quality Engineer, Software Quality Assurance Analyst (SQA Analyst), Software Quality Assurance Engineer (SQA Engineer), Software Quality Engineer, Software Test Engineer, Test Engineer

RI Employment Data

*State data provided by O*NET & BLS
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$80,220
Starting Salary (2025)
$101,790
Median Salary (2025)
10.0%
Projected Job Growth
400
RI Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Conduct historical analyses of test results.
Conduct software compatibility tests with programs, hardware, operating systems, or network environments.
Create or maintain databases of known test defects.
Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Realistic
Practical, Physical Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Analytical Thinking
Cooperation
Integrity
Adaptability/Flexibility
Dependability

What key skills are needed for this job?

Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Active Listening
Writing
Monitoring

Expected Knowledge

Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 4

Considerable Preparation Needed

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Bachelor's degree 50%
  • Associate's degree 26%
  • Post-secondary certificate 9%
  • Some college 9%
  • High school diploma 3%
  • Other 3%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Related Careers

Software Developers
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
Validation Engineers
Penetration Testers
Computer Systems Analysts

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*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.