Software testing is the quality assurance of the digital world. Programs need to be thoroughly tested to find bugs. The engineers and developers might create the programs, but they need to be thoroughly tested at numerous stages of the production process to find bugs and interface issues.
As a Software Tester, you will plan and carry out tests on computer programs to see if they do exactly what they have been designed to do. Working as part of a project team, featuring Front End Website Developers, Project Managers, Graphic Designers and marketing and sales teams.
Your day-to-day duties could include:
planning the testing procedures to be carried out
using automated testing tools or manual procedures to carry out testing
identifying and investigating any software problems discovered
making sure that any problems are dealt with
making sure that any problems are dealt with correctly
re-testing
To become a Software Tester, you will need:
verbal communication and teamwork skills
to be well organised
to be able to write clear reports
to pay attention to detail
You must carefully follow the designs and plans for the software and its intended purpose.
These plans include:
business design specifications - what role will the software play within the business as a whole?
a technical brief - the actual technical plans for the completed software, including charts and diagrams
a website wireframe - a visual plan of a website
You must make sure that the software:
meets the requirements of its design and development
works within an acceptable time (it's not too slow)
can be installed and runs correctly within its intended environment (where it will be used)
Skills and qualities:
Communication skills are crucial because you'll need to report your findings in way that others can immediately understand. In some cases a degree is required, but software skills and knowledge of programming languages such as C# and SQL are more important, and many employers offer training on the job.
An International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) certificate will help, but the main thing is to get as much experience as you can.
Expected salary:
The pay rates given below are approximate.
Starting: £26,500 - £30,000
With experience: £34,500 - £43,000
Senior Software Testers earn £48,000 - £54,500
Contact the Technology and Digital Division Team
Email the Industrial Division at it@stafffinders.co.uk.