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What is a software test analyst and how to become one
Software test analysts are responsible for testing the operation of a system or application under controlled conditions in order to evaluate the results. They write detailed test procedures and apply them in order to verify the overall quality of a product. They also work with a software development team on-site to ensure optimum quality and practical functionality. Software test analysts earn an average salary of $74,000 annually or $35 per hour.
Software test analysts negotiate quality criteria with customers and vendors and clarify use cases in test production. They create and assess estimates while planning and write thorough unit or integration tests with developers. They also create and manage automated system test scripts while interacting between development and validation teams for effective communication. A great software test analyst needs to have excellent interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills to succeed.
In terms of academic qualifications, software test analysts typically hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, business, information technology, or other related fields. They are expected to have some years of experience as a test analyst or in a similar role. Some employers prefer candidates with a keen eye for detail and the ability to absorb themselves in a project.
What general advice would you give to a software test analyst?
Rebecca Sarver
Lecturer in Human Services Studies, Elmira College
Avg. Salary $78,713
Avg. Salary $59,228
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.51%
Asian 11.99%
Black or African American 6.24%
Hispanic or Latino 8.82%
Unknown 4.70%
White 67.73%
Genderfemale 40.56%
male 59.44%
Age - 43American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 43Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is intermediate
7 - challenging
Work life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
Software test analyst career paths
Key steps to become a software test analyst
Explore software test analyst education requirements
Start to develop specific software test analyst skills
Skills Percentages Test Scripts 7.83% Test Results 5.20% Regression 4.91% QA 4.51% Java 4.40% Complete relevant software test analyst training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New software test analysts learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a software test analyst based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real software test analyst resumes.Research software test analyst duties and responsibilities
- Lead the reporting of bugs in QC and preparation of various reports as part of daily monitoring.
- Update data content records with the team site interface, generate HTML, and create editions for the QA environment.
- Execute SQL queries to conduct back-end testing.
- Perform UI testing and browser compatibility testing.
Prepare your software test analyst resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your software test analyst resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a software test analyst resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable software test analyst resume templates
Build a professional software test analyst resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your software test analyst resume.
Apply for software test analyst jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a software test analyst job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first software test analyst job
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Average software test analyst salary
The average software test analyst salary in the United States is $78,713 per year or $38 per hour. Software test analyst salaries range between $61,000 and $100,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do software test analysts rate their job?
Software test analyst reviews
-interacting with end users or customers - delivering successful products or services
Managing projects or leading large projects as this makes the BA role difficult to do well
I like testing because it can be interesting. Things can change but also stay the same. I like routine but not repetition doing the same thing. Testing isn't the best job but a good job.
Some things you test can be really picky to pass. It's likely they will always fail the first time. Some test seem to always pass and seek insufficient. I always look at productivity but also efficiency. So if not necessary by customer and always passes I can't see why a part of the test he removed especially if another part of the test will fail if it does. Options I am always open to.
Working with technology.
Automated testing is more in demand than manual testing.
Updated January 8, 2025
