Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
SOC code 15-1253 · O*NET-SOC 15-1253.00 · Considerable preparation needed · Computer and IT
Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers pay
U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number
Median pay
$104,300
a year
Hourly
$50.14
per hour
The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.
Average pay
$111,490
$53.60 per hour
Middle 50%
$80,310 – $133,180
25th to 75th percentile
Full spread
$61,440 – $167,010
10th to 90th percentile
People employed
186,740
nationwide
National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.
- 10th percentile
- $61,440
- $29.54/hr
- 25th percentile
- $80,310
- $38.61/hr
- Median percentile
- $104,300
- $50.14/hr
- 75th percentile
- $133,180
- $64.03/hr
- 90th percentile
- $167,010
- $80.29/hr
What do software quality assurance analysts and testers do?
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
The tasks that matter most day to day
- Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
- Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
- Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
- Design test plans, scenarios, scripts, or procedures.
- Document test procedures to ensure replicability and compliance with standards.
- Provide feedback and recommendations to developers on software usability and functionality.
- Install, maintain, or use software testing programs.
- Test system modifications to prepare for implementation.
How to qualify for this work
Most people in this role hold bachelor's degree — 50% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.
Preparation level: zone 4 — Considerable preparation needed
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Education reported by people doing this job
- Bachelor's Degree50%
- Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree26%
- Post-Secondary Certificate9%
- Some College Courses9%
Common questions
How much does a software quality assurance analysts and testers earn?
The national median is $104,300 a year. The full range runs from $61,440 at the 10th percentile to $167,010 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.
Can you become a software quality assurance analysts and testers without a degree?
Not usually — this occupation sits in preparation zone 4, where the typical entry route is most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. The education breakdown above shows what people in the role actually reported.
Skills and knowledge you need
Core skills
- Reading Comprehension4.0/5
- Active Listening3.9/5
- Speaking3.9/5
- Critical Thinking3.9/5
- Writing3.8/5
- Monitoring3.6/5
Knowledge areas
- Computers and Electronics4.4/5
- English Language3.8/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- Engineering and Technology3.3/5
- Design3.0/5
- Education and Training2.9/5
- Customer and Personal Service2.7/5
Transferable strengths: Programming, Complex Problem Solving, Quality Control Analysis, Systems Evaluation.