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The differences between test managers 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 test manager and a tester. Additionally, a test manager has an average salary of $92,297, which is higher than the $65,202 average annual salary of a tester.
The top three skills for a test manager include QA, project management and java. The most important skills for a tester are java, test results, and web application.
| Test Manager | Tester | |
| Yearly salary | $92,297 | $65,202 |
| Hourly rate | $44.37 | $31.35 |
| Growth rate | - | - |
| Number of jobs | 27,489 | 52,595 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 65% | Bachelor's Degree, 46% |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
A test manager is responsible for supervising the content of test activities and ensuring that the scope meets the test requirements. Test managers monitor the test process and determine the accurate strategies to establish efficient methods for the success of test deliveries. They also identify the resources according to quality standards and budget limitations. A test manager oversees the technical controls of the test processes and measures the quality of tools and applications for optimal automation.
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.
Test managers and testers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Test Manager | Tester | |
| Average salary | $92,297 | $65,202 |
| Salary range | Between $71,000 And $119,000 | Between $42,000 And $99,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | Maryland |
| Best paying company | Meta | Apple |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Telecommunication |
There are a few differences between a test manager and a tester in terms of educational background:
| Test Manager | Tester | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 65% | Bachelor's Degree, 46% |
| Most common major | Business | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Stanford University | - |
Here are the differences between test managers' and testers' demographics:
| Test Manager | Tester | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 71.7% Female, 28.3% | 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% |