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The differences between testers and system test 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 a system test engineer. Additionally, a system test engineer has an average salary of $100,751, 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 a system test engineer are python, test procedures, and C++.
| Tester | System Test Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $65,202 | $100,751 |
| Hourly rate | $31.35 | $48.44 |
| Growth rate | - | - |
| Number of jobs | 52,595 | 131,653 |
| 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.
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.
Testers and system test engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Tester | System Test Engineer | |
| Average salary | $65,202 | $100,751 |
| Salary range | Between $42,000 And $99,000 | Between $76,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | Petaluma, CA |
| Highest paying state | Maryland | Nevada |
| Best paying company | Apple | Meta |
| Best paying industry | Telecommunication | Professional |
There are a few differences between a tester and a system test engineer in terms of educational background:
| Tester | System Test 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 system test engineers' demographics:
| Tester | System Test Engineer | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 63.0% Female, 37.0% | Male, 80.3% Female, 19.7% |
| 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% |