How to Become a Software Tester

by Danielle Antosz | Published on March 05, 2025

Quick Answer: To become a software tester, you'll need an eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and knowledge of testing tools and automation frameworks. Most testers start with a background in IT, programming, or quality control. 

If you use apps or any software program, you've seen the results of software testers' work—likely without even realizing it. Software testers are the quality assurance masters of software. Their job is to make sure software works as intended, every time. They check the code, run tests, and hunt down bugs that could create glitches or crash programs. 

It's an interesting and engaging field of IT that comes with a solid salary and plenty of room for growth. If you have an eagle eye for details, like learning new things, and find problem-solving fun, it's a career path to consider. 

Here's what you need to know before pursuing a career in software testing. 

What is a Software Tester?

A software tester is an IT professional who ensures that software functions as intended. They are responsible for identifying bugs, verifying functionality, and ensuring that software meets performance standards before release. 

Software testers execute manual and automated tests, collaborate with developers to fix issues, and help organizations deliver reliable, user-friendly applications. They are like copy editors for code. Their job is to ensure that the code is correct and that the end product works as expected.

What Does a Software Tester Do? 

Without software testers, companies risk releasing glitchy apps, faulty websites, or unstable programs that could frustrate users or cause wider issues. Whether it's an e-commerce site, a banking app, or a healthcare system, testers help maintain the integrity, reliability, and security of software by taking care of tasks like: 

• Writing test cases and test plans to ensure software quality meets industry standards.

• Executing manual and automated tests to detect bugs, performance issues, and security vulnerabilities.

• Reporting bugs and working with developers to resolve defects and improve functionality.

• Verifying fixes and validating software updates before they are pushed to production.

• Collaborating with project managers, developers, and business teams to ensure the software meets all requirements.

A software tester’s job is not just about finding bugs—it’s about ensuring that software is reliable and performs well under different conditions.

The exact tasks a software tester will complete in a day will vary by project, industry, and even the types of tools they use. Still, it can be helpful to know what your day-to-day life might look like in this industry. 

Here's an example of what your day might look like: 

• Morning: Review test plans, analyze new requirements, and update test cases.

• Midday: Run manual and automated tests, log defects, and collaborate with developers to resolve issues.

• Afternoon: Verify fixes from developers, run regression tests, and document findings.

• End of day: Attend team meetings, discuss test results, and plan for upcoming testing cycles.

Software development is a fast-paced environment, so testers must adapt quickly, especially when working in Agile or DevOps teams that require frequent updates and deployments.

What Skills Does a Software Tester Need? 

Software testers need a mix of technical skills and soft skills to ensure software is functional, reliable, and bug-free. While some testers focus mostly on manual testing, many roles now require test automation and programming knowledge. 

Essential technical skills software testers need include: 

• Programming knowledge: Familiarity with Python, Java, or JavaScript helps in writing automated test scripts.

• Test automation: Experience with frameworks like Selenium, Appium, and JUnit to automate testing processes.

• Test management tools: Proficiency with JIRA, TestRail, or qTest for tracking test cases and defects.

• Software development lifecycle (SDLC): Understanding how software is built and deployed.

• Database testing: Knowledge of SQL to verify data integrity in applications.

You'll also need soft skills like: 

• Attention to detail: Catching small issues before they become major problems.

• Critical thinking: Anticipating how users might break or misuse the software.

• Communication skills: Working with developers, project managers, and stakeholders to ensure quality. 

Some testers also learn DevOps skills to stay competitive. 

Software Tester: Industry Demand and Job Outlook

As companies prioritize high-quality software, the demand for software testers is growing. The rise of Agile development and DevOps means that testers are involved in continuous testing, automation, and quality assurance throughout the development cycle.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), software testing roles fall under software quality assurance and testing. They predict this industry will grow much faster than average, with an expected 327,900 jobs opening in the next ten years. 

Testing skills are particularly valuable in industries like finance, healthcare, and cybersecurity, where even small software failures can have major consequences.

What Education Do Software Testers Need? 

While a formal degree isn’t always required, most software testers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Some universities and coding boot camps now offer specialized courses in software testing to help professionals enter the field.

Earning a certification can help validate your skills. Some of the top software testing certifications include: 

• Certified Software Tester (CSTE): Covers fundamentals of software testing, debugging, and test case design.

• ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) Foundation Level: A globally recognized certification for learning manual and automated testing methodologies.

• Certified Agile Tester (CAT): Focuses on testing in Agile environments, where frequent releases require continuous testing.

Certifications are especially valuable for testers who want to specialize in automation testing, security testing, or performance testing.

Software Tester Career Path and Progression

Most software testers begin their careers as QA analysts, junior testers, or manual testers, where they gain hands-on experience with various testing tools, write test cases, and identify bugs in applications.

With experience, testers can move into:

• Senior software tester: Leads test strategy and automation initiatives.

• QA lead: Overseas smaller teams, providing support and guidance to junior testers. 

• Testing manager: Oversees testing teams and ensures software quality at a higher level

There are also opportunities to transition into related fields such as software development, automation engineering, or product management. Depending on their expertise and interests, software testers may also transition into adjacent roles such as automation engineers, quality assurance architects, or DevOps engineers.

Software Tester vs. Software Developer: What is the Difference? 

While both roles ensure software quality, software testers focus on finding bugs and making sure everything works as expected before release. In contrast, software developers write the code that powers the application. 

Testers act as the last line of defense, catching issues developers might miss and ensuring users get a smooth, reliable experience. They work closely with developers to identify, report, and fix defects, helping to refine the software before it goes live.

How Much Does a Software Tester Make?

Software testers can earn competitive salaries in the IT industry, though the pay can vary by industry and experience. Here's a range of salaries, broken down by experience level: 

Source: Glassdoor, as of December 2024

Other factors that might impact your salary as a software tester include: 

• Industry: Finance and healthcare companies often offer higher pay due to regulatory compliance and security risks.

• Location: Salaries tend to be higher in tech hubs like San Francisco, Seattle, and New York.

• Certifications: Specialized skills in test automation or performance testing can increase earning potential.

Start Training to Become a Software Tester Today

Becoming a software tester is a great career path if you love technology, problem-solving, and have an eye for detail. With a strong demand in industries ranging from tech to health care, there's never been a better time to enter this field. 

To get started, learn about manual and automated testing tools. Then, consider earning certifications and applying for entry-level QA roles. Becoming a software tester is accessible and full of growth opportunities if you are dedicated to learning! 

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