What does a system test engineer do?

A system test engineer is responsible for performing diagnostic tests on computer systems and applications, measuring its performance and efficiency, and recommending technical solutions as needed. System test engineers assist in system configuration and network infrastructure, ensuring that the deliverables meet the business requirements and project specifications. They should have excellent knowledge of the technology industry, as well as a strong command of programming languages, to automate scripts for quality check methodologies. A system test engineer coordinates with the technology team in improving the user interface, including navigation and server stability.
System test engineer responsibilities
Here are examples of responsibilities from real system test engineer resumes:
- Used various workflow tools to manage AMD, OEM, ODM project dependencies and execution dashboard timelines.
- Construct and manage a complete VMware environment for testing multiple Openstack instances of different configurations.
- Assist in the installation and configuration of external feeds (on both Linux and Unix) from various exchanges.
- Test on web base applications using Java, python, PHP and HTML server-side languages and run automation on it.
- Develop Java beans for configuration management.
- Test UI in its entirety.
- Work on developing automation scripts and collect android logs.
- Create test cases for GUI validation and backend database validation.
- Conduct test protocol and script reviews in a FDA regulate environment.
- Report all problems/issues find to the bugs tracking database (JIRA).
- Maintain SQL databases used to store DataDrill raw data and graphical data.
- Develop test tools, using Perl, to assist in the test effort.
- Develop web interface of reporting tools: PHP solution with SQL database backend.
- Assist with some packaging design concepts and testability requirements to ISO and ASTM standards.
- Implement understanding of SDLC and agile methodology to ensure good quality product to client.
System test engineer skills and personality traits
We calculated that 12% of System Test Engineers are proficient in Python, Test Procedures, and C++.
We break down the percentage of System Test Engineers that have these skills listed on their resume here:
- Python, 12%
Designed algorithms and coded log analyzers using Python to look for potential UE issues improving test and log analysis efficiency.
- Test Procedures, 6%
Supported the development of Flight Control Systems Integration and Verification tests, including development of functional and requirement based test procedures.
- C++, 5%
Designed and implemented automated testing of regression tests using C++ on proprietary automation tools.
- RF, 4%
Developed Manufacturing Test Equipment and Processes for RF Products
- Test Equipment, 4%
Performed design, test integration, evaluation and acceptance testing of complete tactical air-to-surface guided Felix missiles utilizing system test equipment.
- Test Cases, 4%
Estimated, wrote, peer reviewed and executed test cases according to Product Requirement Specification and Network Management Interface Specification.
Most system test engineers use their skills in "python," "test procedures," and "c++" to do their jobs. You can find more detail on essential system test engineer responsibilities here:
The three companies that hire the most system test engineers are:
- Northrop Grumman40 system test engineers jobs
- Raymond26 system test engineers jobs
- Qualcomm21 system test engineers jobs
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System test engineer vs. Functional tester
A functional tester's main responsibility is to validate the behavior of an application and analyzed the requirements of the clients. They are skilled in Java and database design for software development. The tasks they do are complex, including scanning IDs of the receiver and serial numbers on each unit, testing the units to make sure they work properly, and checking for any defects and damages. They are also trained in using numerical codes for passing or failing each unit and writing serial numbers on the production tracker.
There are some key differences in the responsibilities of each position. For example, system test engineer responsibilities require skills like "python," "c++," "rf," and "test equipment." Meanwhile a typical functional tester has skills in areas such as "web application," "selenium," "test automation," and "c net." This difference in skills reveals the differences in what each career does.
Functional testers really shine in the technology industry with an average salary of $74,785. Comparatively, system test engineers tend to make the most money in the professional industry with an average salary of $104,792.On average, functional testers reach similar levels of education than system test engineers. Functional testers are 2.8% more likely to earn a Master's Degree and 0.3% more likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.System test engineer vs. Quality assurance tester
A quality assurance tester, also known as QA tester, has different responsibilities depending on the line of work or industry involved. In a computer development setting, they are in charge of working and coordinating with technical engineers. They have to conduct regular tests for new software and programs, identify inconsistencies, and find areas for improvement. Furthermore, a quality assurance tester must produce reports from the tests, which can be the basis of progress for further developments.
Each career also uses different skills, according to real system test engineer resumes. While system test engineer responsibilities can utilize skills like "python," "test procedures," "c++," and "rf," quality assurance testers use skills like "manual test cases," "selenium webdriver," "status reports," and "pl/sql."
Quality assurance testers may earn a lower salary than system test engineers, but quality assurance testers earn the most pay in the finance industry with an average salary of $86,999. On the other hand, system test engineers receive higher pay in the professional industry, where they earn an average salary of $104,792.Average education levels between the two professions vary. Quality assurance testers tend to reach similar levels of education than system test engineers. In fact, they're 0.6% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.3% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.System test engineer vs. Tester
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.
Some important key differences between the two careers include a few of the skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of each. Some examples from system test engineer resumes include skills like "python," "c++," "rf," and "test cases," whereas a tester is more likely to list skills in "digital transformation," "web application," "metasploit," and "regression test cases. "
Testers earn the highest salary when working in the telecommunication industry, where they receive an average salary of $74,239. Comparatively, system test engineers have the highest earning potential in the professional industry, with an average salary of $104,792.Most testers achieve a lower degree level compared to system test engineers. For example, they're 6.7% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree, and 0.2% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.System test engineer vs. Etl tester
An ETL tester is responsible for validating data sources, extracting data applications of transformation logic, and uploading data in target tables. They are responsible for designing, testing, and troubleshooting the company's data storage system before it goes live. They must have strong technical capabilities and good knowledge of the coding languages commonly used in ETL development, such as Java, SQL, XML. Familiarity with data warehouse architecture techniques like ODS, DM, EDW, M, and ROLAP is also needed. Employers or clients often prefer ETL developers with extensive experience in solving complex technical problems and troubleshooting.
Even though a few skill sets overlap between system test engineers and etl testers, there are some differences that are important to note. For one, a system test engineer might have more use for skills like "python," "test procedures," "c++," and "rf." Meanwhile, some responsibilities of etl testers require skills like "test plan," "sql server," "pl/sql," and "toad. "
Etl testers enjoy the best pay in the finance industry, with an average salary of $86,978. For comparison, system test engineers earn the highest salary in the professional industry.The average resume of etl testers showed that they earn higher levels of education compared to system test engineers. So much so that theyacirc;euro;trade;re 11.3% more likely to earn a Master's Degree and less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree by 0.7%.Types of system test engineer
Updated January 8, 2025











