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The differences between software quality analysts and testers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a software quality analyst and a tester. Additionally, a software quality analyst has an average salary of $76,173, which is higher than the $65,202 average annual salary of a tester.
The top three skills for a software quality analyst include regression, QA and sql server. The most important skills for a tester are java, test results, and web application.
| Software Quality Analyst | Tester | |
| Yearly salary | $76,173 | $65,202 |
| Hourly rate | $36.62 | $31.35 |
| Growth rate | - | - |
| Number of jobs | 146,751 | 52,595 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 68% | Bachelor's Degree, 46% |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
A software quality analyst troubleshoots bugs for a software application. They are responsible for certifying the quality of applications and software. They also evaluate functional problems through regression testing, and they create test strategies based on project requirements. They interact with developers, project managers, customers, and stakeholders.
The role of technical testers is to test computer software for defects, bug errors, or any issues that may come across by an end-user. They mainly conduct product testing and prepare reports about any problems or recommendations for improvements. Other responsibilities include reviewing test plans, assessing and analyzing product specifications and requirements, and mapping out testing strategy. Technical testers also frame the test environments or support network management staff and system administrators. Qualifications for this position include knowledge of the database or structured query language, proficiency in Linux commands, and proficiency in defect tracking tools.
Software quality analysts and testers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Software Quality Analyst | Tester | |
| Average salary | $76,173 | $65,202 |
| Salary range | Between $59,000 And $97,000 | Between $42,000 And $99,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Connecticut | Maryland |
| Best paying company | Genentech | Apple |
| Best paying industry | Non Profits | Telecommunication |
There are a few differences between a software quality analyst and a tester in terms of educational background:
| Software Quality Analyst | Tester | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 68% | Bachelor's Degree, 46% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | - |
Here are the differences between software quality analysts' and testers' demographics:
| Software Quality Analyst | Tester | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 52.0% Female, 48.0% | Male, 63.0% Female, 37.0% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 6.2% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.8% Asian, 12.0% White, 67.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% | Black or African American, 6.2% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.8% Asian, 12.0% White, 67.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 11% |