The aim of a software tester is to rid a company's software of bugs and ensure the software meets top quality specifications. As a software tester you would be expected to use a range of different tests and processes in order to determine the functionality of all aspects of each application. In essence, it would be up to you to try and ‘break' the software!

Qualifications

Specific software tester qualifications are few and far between, so in order to get an entry level job you'll need to demonstrate skills in other ways. It's not necessary to hold a degree, however studying subjects such as computer science at university should be a great help, especially in securing entry level work.

As a base you will be expected to have excellent technical knowledge of as many programming languages as possible (such as PHP, .Net and Java) and to understand the software testing cycle.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need to be quite diplomatic to become a software tester, as a huge part of your role will be feeding back to developers and designers about any bugs in their code or possible improvements that can be made. Analytical skills and insight to back up your suggestions will also help a great deal. On top of these characteristics employers will also be looking for the following:

• A good understanding of the software development process
• Good writing skills (for documenting the process)
• Good communication skills
• Good presentation skills
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines

Of course on top of these person skills, you will also have to prove your technical skills and knowledge.

Career opportunities

Software is constantly evolving and as a result there is a degree of jobs security in becoming a software tester, however the recession did impact heavily on demand in the UK. There has, however, been a spike in recent months and several good signs for continuing growth.

From an entry level position there are plenty of steps on the ladder as you develop your skills. For example; software test lead, software test manager, software test architect, and software test designer.

Salary and benefits

In today's economy the average salary you could expect as a software tester is around £30,000. This figure can rise to around £50,000 as you gain experience and climb the career ladder.

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