Develop and execute software test plans in order to identify software problems and their causes.

Also Known As: Product Assurance Engineer, Quality Assurance Analyst (QA Analyst), Quality Assurance Director (QA Director), Software Quality Assurance Engineer (SQA Engineer), Software Quality Engineer, Software Test Engineer

Daily Tasks / Routine Activities

The Software Quality Assurance Engineers play a very crucial role in validating the software products before they are released to the market. Here are the duties they may be required to execute as part and parcel of their daily work

1. Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
2. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation.
3. Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
4. Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
5. Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
6. Monitor bug resolution efforts and track successes.
7. Create or maintain databases of known test defects.
8. Plan test schedules or strategies in accordance with project scope or delivery dates.
9. Participate in product design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, product designs, schedules, or potential problems.
10. Review software documentation to ensure technical accuracy, compliance, or completeness, or to mitigate risks.
11. Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.
12. Develop or specify standards, methods, or procedures to determine product quality or release readiness.
13. Investigate customer problems referred by technical support.
14. Provide feedback and recommendations to developers on software usability and functionality.

Key Knowledge Areas

Software Testers must have conclusive knowledge in areas listed below
Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Top Skills / Important Qualities

For a Software Tester, these Skills are very paramount.
Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.