How To Become A Software Testing Manager: What It Is and Career Path

What is a software testing manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted expert

Christian Hansen Ph.D.

Nothing is more frustrating than when you get new software that has bugs or defects. To prevent this from happening, it is important to test the software before delivery to the client. Software test managers play an important role in ensuring that these bugs do not crop up.

To be a software test manager, you'll need to know how to effectively implement a testing process. Software test managers often define the scope of testing within the context of each release and deploy the appropriate testing framework to meet the software development timeline. In addition, test managers must understand how testing fits into the organizational structure.

These managers also need to be adaptable because the scope of testing as the software progresses through various stages of testing. They may also formulate testing strategies, manage resources, prepare and review test plans, and analyze results. They are also expected to coordinate with other managers to ensure the highest level of software quality.

To become a software test manager, you'll need a Bachelor's degree in computer science or another relevant field. Relevant experience in programming as well as the software development process is also a plus.

What's a day at work look like for a software testing manager?

Christian Hansen Ph.D.

Professor and Department Chair, Eastern Washington University

In the post-pandemic era, a typical workday for a recent graduate will likely involve some form of remote work. I predict that many businesses will benefit from the reduced cost of remote infrastructure compared to the cost of maintaining brick and mortar office space. Many new graduates will continue to spend their day on a computer while collaborating in teams via Zoom and other teleconference tools. People working in disciplines that have traditionally been "on the ground" will move towards more hybrid modes of work, reducing the need for travel and participating in face-to-face meetings and training.

ScoreSoftware Testing ManagerUS Average

Salary

8.6

Avg. Salary $136,780

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

4.0

Growth rate 21%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

4.0

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.17%

Asian 29.72%

Black or African American 4.68%

Hispanic or Latino 8.46%

Unknown 4.87%

White 52.10%

Gender

female 24.03%

male 75.97%

Age - 38

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 38

Stress level

4.0

Stress level is moderate

7.1 - high

Complexity level

7.9

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

6.6

Work life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a software testing manager

Explore software testing manager education requirements

Most common software testing manager degrees

Bachelor's

70.1 %

Master's

18.8 %

Associate

7.8 %

Start to develop specific software testing manager skills

Skills	Percentages
Software Development	11.12%
C++	8.38%
Test Automation	6.53%
Java	5.47%
Development Process	4.97%

Complete relevant software testing manager training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New software testing managers 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 testing manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real software testing manager resumes.

Research software testing manager duties and responsibilities

Manage a software team developing new UI.
Manage technical integration of large relational databases, product fulfillment systems and architecture; directly report to CTO.
Provide technical leadership to software testing and QA organizations.
Conduct readiness reviews and go / no-go meetings with stakeholders.

Prepare your software testing manager resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your software testing manager resume.

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