Intro
A software tester is an information technology (IT) professional. She is hired to use and test software for the purpose of locating and eliminating bugs in the product. Performing specific tests, she examines all aspects of a product from an end-user's perspective. She may be employed as a staff member of an organization, or work as an independent contractor on a project basis.
Job Responsibilities
A software tester participates in an initial consultation with his internal or external client, for the purpose of understanding the scope of a project. Either independently or in a group setting, he creates a testing plan based on the parameters outlined during the client consultation. The tester actively uses the software that he is testing, using every function and tool, searching for results regarding performance, reliability, bugs and any other failures. Detailed metrics are recorded and monitored to track the progress and outcomes of the testing process. Testing status is communicated either verbally or in writing to his manager or directly to the client. At the conclusion of testing, he may make recommendations, debug failures and perform other tasks required by his client.
Job Opportunities
A candidate may find employment as a software tester through the use of a variety of methods. If she is midcareer, professional staffing agencies that focus on the placement of information technology professionals can be the key to landing a new job opportunity. Additionally, niche online job boards such as Dice.com offer postings specific to the IT industry. Traditional wanted advertisements within the classified sections of newspapers are also useful. Additionally, if she wants to work for a specific company, she may approach the organization's human resources department directly. Membership in a professional organization such as the Association for Software Testing may also provide valuable leads to those seeking employment.
Qualitative Requirements
First and foremost, a software tester must have a deep understanding of computer programming. He must also possess a strong interest in technology and its advancement. Interpersonally, he must be able to immediately gain credibility with the programmers that he is working with, by being an effective and tactful oral communicator, remaining ethical and honest and understanding the application he is testing. He must also be able to speak in layman's terms to any nontechnical colleagues or clients. An astute sensitivity to detail is required, noticing not only what is there but also what it not. Additionally, candidates possessing a high level of customer service and a drive to perform exceptional work tend to succeed within this role.
Educational Requirements
As with many information technology jobs, a four-year degree is not mandatory to obtain employment as a software tester. Most important, candidates should be experienced in using various computer languages and platforms such as C++ and Java. These skills may be obtained by enrolling in a computer science program offered by a junior college, the completion of which entitles the graduate to receive an associate degree. Alternately, many candidates choose to pursue a formal information technology program administered by a proprietary school. Graduates from programs such as these receive a formal certificate of completion. Additionally, formal certification as a software tester is available through the Quality Assurance Institute.
