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The differences between testers and test analysts 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 test analyst. Additionally, a test analyst has an average salary of $70,997, 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 test analyst are test scripts, test plan, and regression.
| Tester | Test Analyst | |
| Yearly salary | $65,202 | $70,997 |
| Hourly rate | $31.35 | $34.13 |
| Growth rate | - | - |
| Number of jobs | 52,595 | 91,308 |
| Job satisfaction | 5 | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Bachelor's Degree, 71% |
| 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.
The duties of a test analyst depend on one's line of work or industry of employment. In the information technology setting, a test analyst is responsible for testing computer software or hardware to ensure its quality before being released in the market. They participate in the development process to monitor the product specifications, review and analyze documentation, and create test systems, implementing them promptly and efficiently. As a test analyst, it is essential to produce progress reports, prepare presentations, and even give recommendations.
Testers and test analysts have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Tester | Test Analyst | |
| Average salary | $65,202 | $70,997 |
| Salary range | Between $42,000 And $99,000 | Between $56,000 And $88,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Maryland | New Hampshire |
| Best paying company | Apple | General Motors |
| Best paying industry | Telecommunication | Finance |
There are a few differences between a tester and a test analyst in terms of educational background:
| Tester | Test Analyst | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Bachelor's Degree, 71% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | - | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between testers' and test analysts' demographics:
| Tester | Test Analyst | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 63.0% Female, 37.0% | Male, 55.2% Female, 44.8% |
| 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% |