Description
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
Interests
- Investigative
- Conventional
- Realistic
Work Values
- Achievement
- Working Conditions
- Independence
Work Styles
- Attention to Detail
- Analytical Thinking
- Cooperation
- Integrity
- Adaptability/Flexibility
Tasks
- Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
- Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
- Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
- Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
- Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.
Work Activities
- Working with Computers
- Getting Information
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
- Processing Information
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Detailed Work Activities
- Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
- Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Technology Skills
- Development environment software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Program testing software
- Object or component oriented development software
- Web platform development software
Abilities
- Deductive Reasoning
- Inductive Reasoning
- Oral Comprehension
- Oral Expression
- Problem Sensitivity
Skills
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Writing
Knowledge
- Computers and Electronics
- English Language
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics
- Design
Most Common Education Level
The “Most Common Education Level” refers to the level of education held by the majority of workers in a given occupation. For example, if the highest percentage of workers in a role have an Associate’s Degree, that suggests this is the typical educational requirement. Knowing this helps you plan how many years of education you may need to pursue that career.
Certificates
Certificate name
GIAC Web Application Penetration TesterCertifying Organization
Global Information Assurance Certification
Type
Advanced
Certificate name
Certified Manager of Software TestingCertifying Organization
International Software Certification Board
Type
Core
Certificate name
Certified TestStand DeveloperCertifying Organization
National Instruments Corporation
Type
Product/Equipment
Certificate name
IBM Certified Application Developer - Informix 11.50Certifying Organization
IBM Corporation
Type
Product/Equipment
Certifying Organization
Oracle Corporation
Type
Product/Equipment
Income Percentile
The income percentiles show how earnings are distributed within a profession. The 10th percentile means that 10% of workers earned less than that amount. The median (50th percentile) indicates that half of workers earned more, and half earned less. The 90th percentile reflects what the top 10% of earners in the field make.
| Income Percentile | Annual Income |
|---|---|
| Low (10%) | $77,307 |
| Median (50%) | $105,976 |
| High (90%) | $143,950 |
Income by Experience
This table shows how income typically grows with experience—from entry level (0–2 years), to mid-level (3–5 years), to senior level (6–8 years), to expert level (8+ years).
| Experience | Income |
|---|---|
Entry Level  | $83,809 |
| Mid Level | $104,482 |
| Senior Level | $117,422 |
| Expert Level | $138,056 |
Employability
There are currently 205,000 jobs in this career path. Over the next 10 years, that number is expected to increase to 229,200 positions, reflecting a projected growth of 12%.
The Projected Job Growth figure refers to the expected increase or decrease in employment within a specific career field over a certain period of time.
Projected Job Growth of 12%
Related Careers
The career information and data on this site incorporates information from O*NET Web Services, Lightcast, CareerOneStop, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). For more details regarding the data sources and the specific information sourced, click here.
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