Software tester: an under-programmer or a highly paid specialty? Software tester is a demanded profession What kind of profession is a tester

Software tester Is a specialist who deals with a variety of testing software for failures, errors and ensuring the quality of the finished product.

The name of the profession is derived from the English word “Test”, which translates as “test”, “test” or simply “testing” already well-established in Russian.

There are several opinions about the work of a tester, some people believe that this profession is a monotonous and monotonous check of everything and everything according to ready-made developments, while others argue that no instruction can cover the entire range of possible errors and the profession is undoubtedly creative. as it makes you actively work with your head and approach the inspection procedure from various angles. True, as usual, lies somewhere in between and the profession of a tester really harmoniously combines both approaches.

Testers are involved in developing methods, plans, approaches, and testing schedules. They independently develop a large number of test scenarios and implement them both with their own hands and using automated testing methods.

The main task facing software testers is to simulate various everyday and force majeure situations that can occur when using the product, while identifying shortcomings, defects and errors made by programmers. By correlating the initial plans, the description of the program's functionality and the results obtained as a result of testing, the testers document each abnormal situation, the moment of its occurrence and the methods of repetition for transferring to programmers for revision.

The results of the tester's work as a result use great amount clients, since the scope of his knowledge and skills is practically unlimited: websites, all types of programs, computer games, microprograms for controlling household and industrial appliances, and so on.

Sometimes the profession of "Software tester" is confused with the profession of "QA engineer" which are quite similar, but the latter has a wider range of responsibilities and ensures the quality of products throughout the entire life cycle: from planning and development to release and support in operation. The tester, on the other hand, checks the product already at the last stages of development and release of new versions.

Possible places of work

Software testers can work in any company that produces software products or products containing software, which is practically all modern technology. Another option is outsourcing or independent testing teams that provide custom software reviews for other companies.

One of the significant advantages of the software tester profession is the ability to freelance and work for international customers via the Internet. With such work, it becomes possible free schedule, self-selection of customers from an interesting area and higher income than when working for an organization. Naturally, at the same time, it is necessary to be able to correctly allocate your time and to avoid missed deadlines, having established yourself in the labor market as a professional in your field.

Pros and cons of being a software tester

pros

A promising, developing profession with an opportunity for career growth
Creative, exploratory nature of work
Obtaining practical knowledge and skills from the IT world
Ample opportunities for freelancing
Opportunity to retrain into a programmer or other related specialty
High profit payment

Minuses

In some cases, the work is monotonous and monotonous
The need to constantly learn new technologies and engage in self-development

Responsibilities of a tester

Where to study as a tester

In Russia, there are no classical educational institutions with training programs specifically for software testing and verification. Indirectly, this includes specialties " Information Systems and technologies ”and“ Automation of information processing and control systems ”, but they give too much unnecessary information.

One of the ideal options for gaining experience in software testing would be reading literature and taking online courses with real test tasks and live teachers checking homework.

On the educational IT-portal GeekBrains you can master the profession of "Software Tester" in just 4 months. During the training, homework, communication with live teachers, control and test work are provided. After graduation, a personal certificate and the possibility of internships in real IT companies are issued. The average salary of a tester in Moscow and the Moscow region is 64,000 rubles.

You can also try the free course "Fundamentals of Programming", which will help identify your inclinations for a particular IT specialty. Perhaps the specialty of a programmer or a web developer is more suitable for you.

Hurry up to start learning. The discount for training the profession "Software Tester" is valid for you for only 3 days!

Necessary personal qualities

An applicant for a software tester position must have a good memory, flexible thinking, be able to build logical chains and relationships between events, be able to constantly learn and learn new technologies, adapt to tasks and conditions, and be ready to quickly switch from one task to another.

Also, the profession "Software Tester" presupposes the presence of patience, dedication, perseverance and willingness to work in a team.

Requirements for a software tester

For successful work as a tester, it is desirable, but not necessary, to have a higher technical education. Most large and successful software companies in the market recruit testers based on successful interviews and test problems, which rely more on logic and attention than on technical knowledge. And the necessary technical basis is taught by the mentor already in the immediate process of work. Thus, companies receive a promising employee who, for one reason or another, did not receive a higher technical education and do not spend energy and money on his retraining, preferring to train immediately for himself. Of course, passed online courses and the subject literature read before the interview will be great advantages.

In any case, when applying for the position of a software tester, a person must be good with a computer.

Knowledge of technical of English language, knowledge of the SQL language, knowledge of databases such as MySQL and knowledge of automated testing programs (if necessary, use) will be your advantages in the interview.

Tester salary

Level is approximate wages... It can vary significantly depending on the region and employer.

A tester is a specialist in identifying errors in software with the aim of their further elimination. Today in the labor market, an alternative name for the profession is more common - QA Tester. The vacancy involves not only testing the final product, but also support during development and after launching into operation.

Software testers are in demand in all areas that intersect with the IT industry. Experts simulate all kinds of situations that may arise while working with the program, and find out its functional qualities.

Responsibilities of a tester

Responsibilities of a tester:

development of plans, schedules and testing methods;
simulation of situations that arise during the operation of the software;
testing the final version of the product;
analysis of data obtained during testing;
classification and entry of errors into the database;
control with the exception of identified faults;
consultation with the customer.

Software tester salary

A tester's salary largely depends on the region of residence and the specialist's work experience. In large cities, it ranges from 40 to 140 thousand rubles. For detailed dynamics, see the figure.

How to become a tester from scratch?

The profession of a tester is in demand in the field information technologies... However, you will not find such a specialty in domestic universities.

So where do you start as a software tester? The easiest way is to enroll in courses at the company where you are going to work. The theoretical course is the same for all companies, while the principles of work may differ significantly.

Previous work experience is very helpful. Most companies select testers for a specific project, and if a candidate has the skills to work in a related field, this will be an absolute advantage. Software is developed for many areas where work experience can come in handy,.

Potentially successful testers are curious people. If in your youth you were interested in disassembling gadgets, studying details, then you have a predisposition.

Another essential quality of a specialist is flexibility. Having studied a few standard codes, it is unlikely that you will succeed in career success. Take a look at the computer you are using now. Now look back 10 years and compare with the past.

Development of new applications, gadgets, software - all this requires continuous professional development from the tester.

First job

So, the courses have been completed and the first project is before you. If straight away you cannot understand the task, do not panic. The Internet is full of information, you can always ask the professionals for advice at a specialized forum. The worst thing is to send a knowingly failed result.

Professional growth involves the expansion of knowledge in the field of programming, operating systems, data transmission networks. As you study new information, you will realize that there is no limit in this niche. In order to be a demanded specialist in the field of testing, you need to constantly develop.

Software tester- a person who plays a primary role in software testing. The profession has a technical bias; it will appeal to applicants inclined to computer science and mathematics. The profession is suitable for those who are interested in computer science (see the choice of profession by interest in school subjects).

Short description

Software testers are among the most sought-after specialists in the IT industry. They evaluate software from an expert point of view and ordinary users, the main goal of their activities is to identify and eliminate software errors. Sometimes testers generate technical documentation in Russian or foreign language. IN mandatory they prepare reports and develop tools and scripts that are used during testing. They are conventionally divided into 2 groups:

Alpha testers who work with software that is under development;
Beta testers who specialize in off-the-shelf software versions.

Prospects open up for software testers professional growth, because they can always choose another area that is somehow connected with the IT segment.

Features of the profession

Software testing is a fun process with a light creative touch. A tester spends most of his working time at a computer or tablet, smartphone and other types of gadgets. The duties of a software tester include the following work:

development of optimal testing methods, creation of test cases, modeling of common behavioral situations;
creation of schedules and plans, execution different types testing: for security, load, functional, automated, configuration, gaming, usability and others. A general-purpose tester can do all of these types of testing, but more often than not, he specializes in 1-2;
creation of databases and reports based on the results of testing;
classification of errors, in-depth analysis of the results of the work carried out;
assisting the development team in fixing bugs;
consultations for developers and customers, analysis of complaints from real users.

All of the above responsibilities should be divided into 3 main stages: development (indirect participation), testing and analysis, preparation of technical reporting and debugging. This type of activity requires involvement, the profession is suitable for boys and girls who are prone to painstaking and sedentary work.

Pros and cons of the profession

pros

Software tester - prestigious profession, which will open the way to other IT-specialties, where there is an even higher level of remuneration.
Many companies that create software products are interested in software testers.
A tester can work in the office or at home, which allows you to combine activities with travel, hobbies or education.
Testers' salaries are high, and the field is open to ambitious people of all ages.
Access to modern software, games and other interesting products.
Ability to lead own blog or vlog, which allows you to popularize your services and get additional income.

Minuses

The work of testers is very well paid, which entails high competition in the labor market.
To fulfill orders requires experience, in the absence of it, finding a job is not easy.
Occupational diseases common to all people who work at a computer.

Important personal qualities

The following professional qualities are important for a software tester:

logical thinking,
ability to concentrate attention,
multitasking,
moral flexibility,
categorical,
increased accuracy,
professional responsibility.

A software tester communicates with developers and customers, so communication skills and the ability to correctly formulate thoughts, as well as literacy, are important.

Software tester training

A novice tester can graduate from a college or get the necessary skills in courses - it all depends on the requirements of the potential employer and personal skills. However, higher technical education should be considered as a priority. The applicant can choose the following university areas of training, for which mathematics is the profile of the Unified State Exam:

"Applied Mathematics and Informatics" (code: 01.04.02);
"Informatics and Computer Engineering" (code: 09.03.01);
"Information and analytical security systems" (code: 10.05.04);
"Information security" (code: 10.03.01) and others technical directions related to computer science, mathematics, digital information security and computing.

If you decide to start your career with a secondary school, then consider the directions "Information Systems and Programming" (code: 02/09/07), "Computer Networks" (code: 02/09/02) or "Applied Informatics (by industry)". You can start studying at a university after grade 11, an applicant can enter a secondary school after graduating from grade 9.

Best Universities for Software Testers

MIPT.
MSLU.
National Research University Higher School of Economics.
NUST MISIS.
PRUE them. G.V. Plekhanov.
Moscow State University M.V. Lomonosov.
FEFU.
SPbU of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation.
RGUNG.

The best colleges

CS No. 54.
KAIT No. 20.
PC them. N.N. Godovikova.
PKIPT (IT College).
TKUiK.

International educational institution specializing in computer education. Has been working since 1999. 42 branches in 16 countries. The largest authorized training center for Microsoft, Cisco, Autodesk. Students receive international certificates and an international diploma. The main goal is the employment of each graduate.

Master one of the most in-demand IT professions under the guidance of a personal mentor and start earning money before completing the course. No programming experience required. You will learn how to test sites mobile applications and other software. You will learn how the work of IT companies is arranged, and you will be able to understand how you want to develop in the profession. ... The juniors are already in great demand in the market, and this course will allow you to reach the middle-level.

Training Center "Specialist" at MSTU named after N.E.Bauman

On the site training center a large selection of quality software is available for people who decide to become software testers. Any course consists of theoretical and practical blocks, the form of training can be full-time or distance. The duration of training is 16-64 ac. h., minimum cost - 11850 rubles. and higher, which directly depends on the selected profile.

Students of specialized universities (3-5 courses), practicing testers who want to gain new knowledge and improve their professionalism are invited to study. Training is conducted in the evening, in a group of no more than 10 students, the duration of the course is 3 months. Talented graduates can apply for a vacancy at EPAM.

Place of work

Software testers are required in an IT company. They are needed in other areas of business that are involved in the creation or implementation of software, applications, services.

Salary

Salary as of 10.10.2019

Russia 20,000-80000 ₽

Moscow 50,000—120000 ₽

The salary of a software tester is high, but its size depends on a number of key factors:

direction of the tester's activity;
level of professional knowledge;
desire to learn;
region of work and company;
cooperation format ( permanent job, freelance).

Career

Usually, after 3-5 years of successful work, testers go further, because they study hard to become a programmer, an expert in the field of cybersecurity, etc. They will also be able to work as IT managers, business analysts.

Professional knowledge

Methods used in software testing.
Test automation.
DBMS, SQL, Oracle, IBM Rational Robot.
Databases, knowledge of at least one programming language is desirable (in priority C #, C ++, PHP and Java).
English language not lower than Upper-Intermediate.

Short description

Software testers are among the most sought-after specialists in the IT industry. They evaluate software from the point of view of experts and ordinary users, the main goal of their activities is to identify and eliminate software errors. Sometimes testers generate technical documentation in Russian or foreign language. Without fail, they prepare reports, as well as develop tools and scripts that are used during testing. They are conventionally divided into 2 groups:

Alpha testers who work with software that is under development;
Beta testers who specialize in off-the-shelf software versions.

For software testers, professional growth prospects open up, because they can always choose another area that is in one way or another related to the IT segment.

Features of the profession

development of optimal testing methods, creation of test cases, modeling of common behavioral situations;
creating schedules and plans, performing different types of testing: for security, load, functional, automated, configuration, game, usability and others. A general-purpose tester can do all of these types of testing, but more often than not, he specializes in 1-2;
creation of databases and reports based on the results of testing;
classification of errors, in-depth analysis of the results of the work carried out;
assisting the development team in fixing bugs;
consultations for developers and customers, analysis of complaints from real users.

Pros and cons of the profession

pros

A software tester is a prestigious profession that will open the way to other IT specialties, where there is an even higher salary level.
Many companies that create software products are interested in software testers.
A tester can work in the office or at home, which allows you to combine activities with travel, hobbies or education.
Testers' salaries are high, and the field is open to ambitious people of all ages.
Access to modern software, games and other interesting products.
The ability to keep your own blog or vlog, which allows you to popularize your services and generate additional income.

Minuses

The work of testers is very well paid, which entails high competition in the labor market.
To fulfill orders requires experience, in the absence of it, finding a job is not easy.
Occupational diseases common to all people who work at a computer.

Important personal qualities

The following professional qualities are important for a software tester:

logical thinking,
ability to concentrate attention,
multitasking,
moral flexibility,
categorical,
increased accuracy,
professional responsibility.

A software tester communicates with developers and customers, so communication skills and the ability to correctly formulate thoughts, as well as literacy, are important.

Software tester training

"Applied Mathematics and Informatics" (code: 01.04.02);
"Informatics and Computer Engineering" (code: 09.03.01);
"Information and analytical security systems" (code: 10.05.04);
"Information security" (code: 10.03.01) and other technical areas related to informatics, mathematics, security of digital information and computing technology.

Best Universities for Software Testers

MIPT.
MSLU.
National Research University Higher School of Economics.
NUST MISIS.
PRUE them. G.V. Plekhanov.
Moscow State University M.V. Lomonosov.
FEFU.
SPbU of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation.
RGUNG.

The best colleges

CS No. 54.
KAIT No. 20.
PC them. N.N. Godovikova.
PKIPT (IT College).
TKUiK.

Master one of the most in-demand IT professions under the guidance of a personal mentor and start earning money before completing the course. No programming experience required. You will learn how to test websites, mobile applications and other software. You will learn how the work of IT companies is arranged, and you will be able to understand how you want to develop in the profession. Get the job guaranteed. The juniors are already in great demand in the market, and this course will allow you to reach the middle-level.

Training Center "Specialist" at MSTU named after N.E.Bauman

On the website of the training center, a large selection of high-quality programs is available for people who decide to become software testers. Any course consists of theoretical and practical blocks, the form of training can be full-time or distance. The duration of training is 16-64 ac. h., minimum cost - 11850 rubles. and higher, which directly depends on the selected profile.

Place of work

Software testers are required in an IT company. They are needed in other areas of business that are involved in the creation or implementation of software, applications, services.

Salary

Salary as of 10.10.2019

Russia 20,000-80000 ₽

Moscow 50,000—120000 ₽

The salary of a software tester is high, but its size depends on a number of key factors:

direction of the tester's activity;
level of professional knowledge;
desire to learn;
region of work and company;
cooperation format (permanent work, freelance).

Career

Professional knowledge

Methods used in software testing.
Test automation.
DBMS, SQL, Oracle, IBM Rational Robot.
Databases, knowledge of at least one programming language is desirable (in priority C #, C ++, PHP and Java).
English language not lower than Upper-Intermediate.

The problem is systemic, because it's not bad when HR searches for keywords like "load testing", "functional". But when in the process of consideration the emphasis is not on testing skills, not on the activity and flexibility of the candidate, but on a specific tool, this is already a problem, especially when there is no testing at all (there is monkey behavior), and not the fact that the required tool is more effective than the one which the applicant knows. The problem is that knowledge of a small nuance or a tool, which will take several hours to master, is put at the forefront, above knowledge of programming languages or theory. In one of the interviews it was quite funny to answer the questions: “name some book on testing” and, answering about Sam Kaner, to hear: “we don't know this, but about life cycle have you read anything about a bug? " It would be funny if it weren't so sad. It's sad when HR reports a refusal due to a candidate's lack of experience, although it's a matter of misplaced emphasis.

Finding a good tester is a big problem, since a tester is, ideally, a person who solves technical problems associated with software development, a kind of problem solver. In addition to technical skills, it is very important for such a person to have attentiveness, an inquisitive mind, be active and be able to convey an idea and defend his point of view at any level. In a way, testers are researchers from the world of software development. Therefore, in the hands of a test engineer there is an easily recognizable symbol - a magnifying glass (lens), observing the bugs. It characterizes the work of a tester in the best possible way: it is used both for its intended purpose for detecting defects and for "burning holes", with its help you can make fire and even, having a whole system of lenses, observe the stars. The main thing is to be able to do it.

Remark No. 5

At Intel, the dominant approach is to select tools based on the preferences of employees on a project. This means that, in general, it does not matter which tool and language to choose to solve a problem, the main thing is to solve it. Coexistence of three different test engineers, writing in three different languages, is perfectly acceptable as long as the problem is solved, solved efficiently, and the support overhead is reasonable and the process is documented. In addition, many of the tools used are free, open-source, or proprietary. Today, there are a huge number of tools with which it is possible to solve various problems, and the choice of tools should not limit the capabilities of an engineer. However, if the task really requires the use of some tool other than the freely available one, then with a clear understanding and justification, you can buy and use it. Again, this is in line with the business goals of not hammering in nails with a microscope, not working efficiently, squeezing the most out of the tools, if the qualifications of the engineers make it possible to get by with "small losses." Participation in open projects and investment in them for subsequent use for their own needs. This approach kills two birds with one stone (its needs) and tasks and creates tools for the whole society in free use.

Instead of conclusions

A tester is more than a profession. This is a way of proactive life and striving to make this life better for everyone with feasible and effective means. The goals of the tester in relation to the product are closest to the goals of the business and strategic goal company in relation to this product, and at the same time deep within the company as a researcher. And if so, then his main qualities are energy, knowledge and flexibility. But at the same time, the work of a tester is not everyone's knowledge and responsibility for the quality of the product and the quality of services. Testing has boundaries: on the one hand, limited by the project and the requirements in it (project management and the established program life cycle), and on the other hand, by the processes for which the QA is responsible. But the difference between QA and testing is a completely different conversation.

Tags: Add Tags