Quality assurance (QA) analysts help ensure all aspects of software solutions perform their intended function. You will work with other IT professionals within the organization to create full-scale testing plans, execute these plans and make adjustments to software programs based on testing results. As part of your role, you may focus on quality assurance analysis or serve as a functional tester or automation tester. Your specific role may vary based on company requirements and your specific skillset. If you have the technical acumen and business experience, this may be a role worth pursuing.
Average QA analyst salaries range from $87,000 to $112,000.. Those new with little experience in the role can expect a starting salary of approximately $87,000. Those with experience can make up to $130,000 or more per year. Having SQL, test planning and test automation skills and experience can help increase your earning potential.
Quality assurance analysts work in an office environment and spend the bulk of their day working on a computer. You can expect to work regular office hours and be part of the IT department. When required, you may need to work overtime, evenings and possibly weekends to meet tight deadlines or to address data security and database performance issues. Depending on the company structure, you could report to a quality assurance manager or IT manager.
Your main role as a quality assurance analyst is to validate data sets and systems and ensure they meet system and database design specifications. As part of this role, you can expect the following responsibilities to be included in your job description:
Additional and more specific tasks may also be assigned to align with company IT and business strategies.
Quality assurance managers are in demand across the country. With technology taking a larger role in all industries, there is a need for this role in all size companies. In particular, there is demand and higher earning potential in California, Texas and Florida.The most positions are found within the IT and business sector.
QA analysts should have strong business and IT acumen. Hiring companies typically are seeking candidates with the following skills and abilities:
To be considered for the role of QA analyst, hiring companies are looking for candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as computer science, research methods and statistics, mathematics, information systems, database management and other degrees. Experience working in a QA role is an asset, but may not be required. Additional education or career experience will give you an advantage over other applicants. Computer certifications, particularly related to database management will make you a prime candidate. Ongoing training and education will be part of this career path. Training and career development opportunities may be provided by the hiring company.
Many QA analysts spend 20 years in the field, making it a long-term career opportunity. Many of these professionals, once they gain ample experience or determine it’s time for a shift in career focus, move on to other similar roles such as IT business analyst, quality assurance manager, software quality assurance lead or a quality assurance role in computer software or engineering. Working as a QA analyst can put you on a career track to eventually work your way up to roles such as quality assurance director, senior business analyst and IT project manager. Job prospects in this career path are good.
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