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The differences between testers and automation engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a tester and an automation engineer. Additionally, an automation engineer has an average salary of $92,597, which is higher than the $65,202 average annual salary of a tester.
The top three skills for a tester include java, test results and web application. The most important skills for an automation engineer are python, java, and PLC.
| Tester | Automation Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $65,202 | $92,597 |
| Hourly rate | $31.35 | $44.52 |
| Growth rate | - | - |
| Number of jobs | 52,595 | 133,941 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
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.
An automation engineer takes charge of developing detailed design specifications and any other documents. Automation engineers develop automation software that is based on certain requirements for the involved process. They conform to local standards, international standards, and other process-oriented guidelines. Their duties also include the simulation and testing of automated machinery and processes. The must-have skills for this position include configuration software experience, scripting and coding expertise, certifications, and in-depth knowledge of technology.
Testers and automation engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Tester | Automation Engineer | |
| Average salary | $65,202 | $92,597 |
| Salary range | Between $42,000 And $99,000 | Between $70,000 And $121,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Maryland | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Telecommunication | Retail |
There are a few differences between a tester and an automation engineer in terms of educational background:
| Tester | Automation Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Electrical Engineering |
| Most common college | - | California State University - Long Beach |
Here are the differences between testers' and automation engineers' demographics:
| Tester | Automation Engineer | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 63.0% Female, 37.0% | Male, 87.0% Female, 13.0% |
| 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% |