WHAT IS AN Entry Level Tester Job
An entry level tester job refers to a position in the field of software testing that is suitable for individuals who are just starting their career in this industry. As the name suggests, this role is designed for beginners who have little to no prior experience in software testing. It provides an opportunity for aspiring testers to gain practical knowledge and skills by working on various testing projects under the guidance of senior professionals.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION
In an entry level tester job, the primary responsibility is to assist the senior testers in conducting testing activities on software applications. This includes analyzing software requirements, designing test cases, executing test scripts, and documenting test results. Entry level testers also play a crucial role in identifying and reporting software defects or bugs, which helps the development team to resolve them before the software is released to the market.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR POSITION
To excel in an entry level tester job, there are certain skills that are highly valued in this field. Here are the top five skills that can make you a successful entry level tester:
1.
Attention to Detail: As a tester, you need to have a keen eye for detail to identify even the smallest defects or inconsistencies in the software.
2.
Good Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze complex software requirements and break them down into testable scenarios is crucial for an entry level tester.
3.
Effective Communication: Clear and concise communication skills are essential to effectively report bugs and collaborate with other team members.
4.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Entry level testers should be able to think critically and come up with innovative solutions to overcome testing challenges.
5.
Basic Programming Knowledge: Familiarity with programming languages and scripting can be beneficial in understanding the underlying structure of the software being tested.
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST
To become an entry level tester, there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of getting hired in this role:
1.
Educational Background: Pursue a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. This will provide you with a solid foundation in software testing principles and methodologies.
2.
Gain Relevant Certifications: Consider obtaining certifications such as ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) to enhance your knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
3.
Develop Practical Skills: Practice testing on various software applications, either through internships, personal projects, or open-source contributions. This will help you build a portfolio of your work and showcase your abilities to potential employers.
4.
Networking: Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with professionals in the software testing field. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights into the industry.
5.
Continued Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in software testing by reading books, attending webinars, and participating in online courses. Continuous learning will keep you ahead of the curve and make you a valuable asset to any organization.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for entry level tester jobs can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and level of experience. On average, entry level testers in the United States can expect to earn around $50,000 to $60,000 per year. However, it's important to note that salaries can range significantly, with some entry level testers earning closer to $40,000 while others may earn upwards of $70,000, especially in high-demand areas or specialized industries.
ROLES AND TYPES
Entry level tester jobs can be found in various industries, including software development, IT consulting, financial services, healthcare, and more. Within these industries, there are different types of entry level tester roles, such as:
1.
Manual Tester: This role involves manually executing test cases and documenting the results, focusing on functional and usability testing.
2.
Automation Tester: Automation testers use tools and scripts to automate repetitive testing tasks, allowing for faster and more efficient testing processes.
3.
Performance Tester: Performance testers focus on evaluating the performance, scalability, and reliability of software applications under various load conditions.
4.
Security Tester: Security testers identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in software systems to ensure they are secure from potential threats.
5.
Mobile Tester: Mobile testers specialize in testing applications designed for mobile devices, ensuring they function properly across different platforms and operating systems.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Entry level tester jobs can be found throughout the United States, but there are certain locations that have a higher concentration of job opportunities in this field. Some of the most popular cities for entry level tester jobs in the USA include:
1.
San Francisco, California
2.
Seattle, Washington
3.
New York City, New York
4.
Austin, Texas
5.
Chicago, Illinois
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
In the field of software testing, there are various tools and technologies that entry level testers commonly use to perform their tasks effectively. Some of the typical tools include:
1.
Test Management Tools: These tools help testers to manage test cases, track defects, and generate reports. Examples include JIRA, TestRail, and Zephyr.
2.
Automation Testing Tools: Popular automation testing tools like Selenium, Appium, and Cypress are used to automate repetitive testing tasks and improve efficiency.
3.
Load Testing Tools: Load testing tools such as Apache JMeter and LoadRunner are used to simulate high user loads and evaluate the performance of software applications.
4.
Defect Tracking Tools: Defect tracking tools like Bugzilla and Mantis are used to log, track, and manage software defects or bugs throughout the testing process.
5.
Version Control Systems: Version control systems like Git and SVN help testers collaborate with developers and manage different versions of software being tested.
IN CONCLUSION
An entry level tester job serves as a stepping stone for individuals who are passionate about software testing and want to build a successful career in this field. By developing the necessary skills, gaining relevant certifications, and continuously learning about the latest trends and technologies, you can increase your chances of securing an entry level tester position. With a strong foundation, dedication, and perseverance, you can grow in this role and eventually advance to higher positions in the software testing industry.